Navigating Norway's National Insurance Scheme: A Guide to Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
Medical Insurance
Norway's National Insurance Scheme (NIS) offers comprehensive coverage for a wide range of medical services. Here's what you need to know about the coverage provided:
General Practitioner Consultations: Visits to a general practitioner (GP) are a common necessity. The cost is fixed at NOK 170 (GBP 12.30/ EUR 14.44) per in-person consultation, NOK 230 (GBP 16.64/ EUR 19.53) for e-consultations, and NOK 333 (GBP 24.09/ EUR 28.29) for emergency room visits.
Psychological Help: The NIS covers psychological consultations at a fixed rate of NOK 386 (GBP 27.93/ EUR 32.79) per session.
Prescription Drugs and Medical Devices: For important drugs and special medical devices, the NIS covers 50% of the prescription cost, with a maximum charge of NOK 520 (GBP 37.63/ EUR 44.18) per prescription.
Other Medical Services: The NIS also covers a range of other services, including travel expenses related to treatment, radiological examinations, laboratory tests, outpatient healthcare, and physiotherapy.
Specialized Treatments: Coverage extends to dental care, treatment by chiropractors, speech therapy, midwifery assistance, and even treatment trips abroad.
Currently, insured individuals are only required to pay up to NOK 3,165 (GBP 229.06/ EUR 268.88) out-of-pocket annually for medical care, psychological help, important medicines, nursing articles, and travel expenses for treatment. Any expenses beyond this limit are fully covered by the NIS.
Dental Insurance
Under the NIS, insured employees in Norway have access to coverage for dental services. The NIS pays benefits at fixed rates, with the annual ceiling for these benefits determined by the Norwegian Parliament.
Vision Insurance
Vision care is also covered by the NIS, specifically for the treatment of eye diseases. To qualify for coverage, the treatment must be deemed vital to the member's functional ability and must be referred by a specialist.
Funding the National Insurance Scheme
The extensive benefits provided by the NIS are funded through contributions from both employers and employees.
Implications for Employers
Employers must ensure compliance with Norwegian health and safety regulations and that contributions are correctly calculated and submitted.