Norwegian health system explained

All hospitals in Norway are funded by the public as part of the national budget.

However, while medical treatment is free of charge for any person under the age of 16, adults must pay a deductible fee each year before becoming eligible for an exemption card.

The card entitles them to free healthcare for the remainder of that year. Public hospitals in Norway are run by four regional health authorities overseen by the ministry of health.

In addition to these public hospitals, there are a small number of privately owned health clinics currently operating.

While the availability of public healthcare is universal in Norway, there are certain payment stipulations.

Children aged 16 or younger, and pregnant and/ or nursing women are given free healthcare regardless of the coverage they may have had in previous situations. All citizens are otherwise responsible for the annual deductible fee – which averages around £180.