Can you get a check-up at a public hospital? This question has become common among people wanting to monitor their health in recent years. Because check-up programs at private hospitals can be expensive, many look for ways to receive similar services at public hospitals either free or at lower cost. There is, however, some confusion about what public hospitals offer, which tests are included, and whether services are charged. Below we explain what a check-up is, how to request one at a state hospital, which tests are commonly performed, and how costs are handled. We also summarize the benefits and practical points to consider.
Many public hospitals across Turkey provide check-up services under certain conditions. The exact approach varies by hospital: in some cases the examinations are free, while in others patients may be asked to pay for specific tests. Below we detail what a check-up includes, how to obtain it at a public hospital, which examinations are commonly requested, and when there may be fees. We also highlight the main advantages of a regular health screening and practical recommendations.
What Is a Check-Up and Why Is It Useful?
A check-up is a screening and evaluation process that assesses a person’s general health even when there are no clear symptoms. The main purpose is to detect existing conditions early or to identify risk factors before disease develops. Regular check-ups help improve quality of life, enable early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, and support individuals in actively monitoring their health.
Why Have a Check-Up?
- Enables early diagnosis of diseases.
- Allows preventive measures before risky conditions develop.
- Helps take precautions based on family medical history.
- Analyzes overall health according to age, sex and lifestyle.
- Keeps chronic diseases (diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol etc.) under control.
When Is a Check-Up Recommended?
- Adults over 30: at least once a year.
- People with chronic disease should be screened more frequently.
- Those with family history of cancer, heart disease or diabetes.
- Individuals with highly stressful or intense work schedules.
- People who have not visited a doctor or had a health check for a long time.
Can You Get a Check-Up at a Public Hospital?
The short answer is yes, public hospitals do provide check-ups. However, they typically do not offer the standardized packaged check-ups common in private clinics. At public hospitals the process usually begins after a referral or assessment by a family physician or a specialist. In practice, you do not usually book a “check-up appointment” directly; instead the family doctor or an internal medicine specialist evaluates your needs and directs which tests are necessary.
How Is a Check-Up Carried Out at a Public Hospital?
- Visit Family Physician or Internal Medicine Specialist: First see your family doctor or an internal medicine specialist at the state hospital.
- Referral to Tests Based on Examination: If the physician deems it appropriate, they will request laboratory tests such as blood tests, urine analysis, ECG, or imaging like chest X-ray.
- Evaluation of Results: Test results are reviewed by the same physician, who provides an overall health assessment and guidance on follow-up or treatment if needed.
Which Tests Are Commonly Included?
Typical check-up tests performed at public hospitals often include:
- Complete blood count (CBC/hemogram)
- Blood glucose and cholesterol measurements
- Liver and kidney function tests
- Urinalysis
- ECG (electrocardiogram)
- Chest X-ray
- Additional tests if needed, such as thyroid function, vitamin B12 or vitamin D
Note: The exact scope depends on hospital resources and the physician’s recommendations.
Are Check-Ups at Public Hospitals Free or Paid?
Whether a check-up at a public hospital is free depends on your social security status, how you apply, and which tests are ordered. Basic health checks are generally covered for insured patients under social security (SGK) and can be provided without charge. However, specially requested or expanded tests may incur additional fees.
When You Can Benefit Free of Charge
- Tests ordered following referral from a family physician or specialist.
- Mandatory basic blood and urine tests for SGK-covered patients.
- Standard annual health checks conducted for prevention.
- Routine follow-up tests for patients with chronic conditions.
When Costs May Apply
- Patients who come without a doctor’s referral simply requesting a check-up.
- Extra tests requested on demand (hormone panels, extensive vitamin analyses, full-body scans, etc.).
- Individuals without SGK/social security coverage.
- Laboratory services that fall outside treatments considered as outpatient services covered by the system.
Estimated Prices (2025)
| Test Type | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive blood panels | 200 – 400 TL |
| Chest X-ray | 100 – 150 TL |
| Hormone / Vitamin analyses | 150 – 350 TL |
Recommendation: If you want to know whether your requested check-up or specific tests will be covered by SGK, consult your family physician or the relevant unit at the public hospital first. This prevents unnecessary expenses and ensures the process starts correctly.
How to Make an Appointment for a Check-Up at a Public Hospital
People wishing to receive a check-up at a state hospital cannot usually book a direct “check-up” appointment. The process generally begins by making an appointment with a family physician or the internal medicine (dahiliye) clinic. The correct first step is therefore to book the appropriate specialty.
Ways to Book an Appointment
1. MHRS (Central Appointment System)
- Use the MHRS website or mobile application to book an appointment.
- Log in with your national ID number and password.
- Select the city and district, then choose “Internal Medicine (Dahiliye)” or “Family Medicine” clinics.
- Choose a suitable date and time for your appointment.
2. Alo 182 Call Center
- Call the 182 line.
- Provide your identification details and the operator will help you schedule an appointment at the nearest hospital.
- If you tell them which tests you expect, their guidance can be more accurate.
3. e-Nabız (Health Record System)
- Log in to the e-Nabız system to manage your appointments and access past test results.
- You can also see test requests that your doctor has issued through the system.
Important: Telling the doctor at your appointment “I want a check-up” is sufficient. The physician will order the appropriate tests through the hospital system if they consider them necessary.