Romanians receive EUR 310 mln worth of medical services abroad

In the past eight years, Romanians received medical treatment worth over EUR 310 million in the EU, the European Economic Space and Switzerland. For these medical services, the National Health Insurance House CNAS paid some RON 265 million (EUR 60 million) between 2007 and 2013, and RON 310 million (around EUR 70 million) in 2014. CNAS also owes some EUR 180 million for the medical services Romanians received abroad, reports local Mediafax. By law, the payment deadline for medical services abroad is 18 months, but it can be extended to up to 36 months in some cases. Some of the highest debts are to Germany – EUR 63.5 million, Italy – EUR 34.5 million and Austria – EUR 24.5 million. Germany, Austria, Italy, France and Hungary are the top five Member States for which Romanian authorities issued forms for treatment abroad. Most of the forms were issued for cancer (38.08%), heart diseases (25.95%), pediatric diseases (9.66%), neurological disorders (5.95%) and orthopedic problems (5.5%). Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com