How healthcare works in Tbilisi

Introduction

Relocating to Tbilisi or investing in real estate here naturally raises the question: how does the healthcare system work? This guide explains where to seek care, differences between public and private providers, how pharmacies operate and practical steps you can take when choosing a home so that your medical needs are covered.

Overview: public and private providers ✅

• Tbilisi has a mix of public hospitals and private clinics. Public facilities serve large numbers of residents and can be more budget-friendly.
• Private clinics typically offer more flexible hours, quicker appointments, and services in English and Russian — many expats prefer them for planned and urgent care.

What private clinics usually offer

• Faster appointments and shorter waits when paying directly or using insurance.
• Broad diagnostics (imaging, labs) and specialist consultations with modern equipment.
• Customer-focused services: electronic booking, multilingual staff, comfortable environments.

What to expect from public healthcare

• An extensive network of doctors and hospitals providing basic and emergency care to the population.
• Possible longer waits for non-urgent visits; nonetheless public hospitals remain essential for acute emergencies.

Insurance and costs 💳

• If you plan to live in Georgia long-term, consider local or international health insurance. Policies typically cover routine visits, diagnostics and some emergency care.
• Prices in private clinics vary depending on the clinic’s class and the procedures needed. When budgeting, include the cost of consultation, diagnostic tests and any follow-up treatments.

Tip for property buyers: proximity to hospitals and clinics is an important factor for families and older residents and can increase rental demand and resale potential.

Pharmacies and medicines 💊

• Pharmacies are widely available around the city and many medicines can be purchased without a prescription. Pharmacists often help with minor issues.
• Prescription drugs require a doctor’s note. If you use specific long-term medicines, check their availability before you relocate.

Practical example

If you plan to rent out a purchased apartment, having pharmacies and clinics nearby makes the property more attractive to tenants with healthcare needs.

Emergency care and ambulance services 🚑

• Emergency services operate across the city. Before you need them, learn from your landlord or building manager where the nearest emergency department is and how to access immediate care.
• In buildings with concierge or management, ask whether they have contacts with local clinics and can facilitate urgent visits.

Choosing a neighbourhood with healthcare in mind 🏠

• Evaluate travel time to nearby clinics, the presence of private clinics, polyclinics and pharmacies.
• For investors: properties in areas with developed medical infrastructure appeal more to families and older tenants, improving occupancy rates.
• When viewing properties, ask the BuyHome agent about nearby medical facilities. Use our search to filter by neighbourhood: https://buyhome.ge/en/search

Language and documents for foreigners

• Many private clinics have English-speaking staff and may also have Russian-speaking personnel. Confirm language availability when booking an appointment.
• Keep digital copies of medical records and prescriptions — this speeds up care when you switch doctors or visit a different clinic.

Practical checklist for newcomers ✍️

• Compile a list of required medicines and verify their availability in Tbilisi.
• Arrange health insurance suitable for your stay.
• When choosing housing, find out how quickly you can reach a clinic or hospital.
• Ask your BuyHome agent about the healthcare infrastructure around properties you consider.

Conclusion and help from our agency 🤝

Healthcare in Tbilisi combines public services and a growing private sector. For those buying or renting, access to medical services is a key part of assessing comfort and long-term value.

If you are planning a move or property purchase in Tbilisi, we can help evaluate the proximity of clinics and pharmacies when selecting a home. Contact us for personalized support and property options: https://buyhome.ge/en