What Is Complementary Health Insurance? How It Differs from Private Health Insurance
For those who want private-hospital comfort at an affordable premium, TSS is a strong option. We explain how it works and how it differs from private health insurance.
Updated: 2026-08-09 · 6 min read
When people hear health insurance, most think of expensive private health insurance. Yet Complementary Health Insurance (TSS) lets anyone with SGK reach private-hospital comfort at far more affordable premiums. Knowing the difference is the key to the right choice.
How does Complementary Health Insurance (TSS) work?
TSS works together with SGK (Turkey's public health system). At private hospitals contracted with SGK, TSS pays the difference SGK doesn't cover; so you get consultations, tests, surgery and hospitalisation at a private hospital almost free. The condition: having active SGK coverage.
How does it differ from private health insurance?
Private health insurance is independent of SGK, much broader but much more expensive — it may cover non-contracted hospitals, treatment abroad and higher limits. TSS is limited to the SGK-contracted network but its premium is markedly lower.
- TSS: affordable premium, SGK-contracted private hospital network, requires active SGK
- Private health insurance: higher premium, broader hospital/coverage, no SGK requirement
Which suits me?
If you have SGK and want private-hospital comfort at a reasonable cost, TSS makes sense for most families. If you need a broader network, higher limits or non-SGK needs, private health insurance may fit. The right policy varies by age, medical history and needs.
As Seferihisar Sigorta we compare both TSS and private health insurance offers and decide the health policy that best fits your needs and budget together with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is SGK required for complementary health insurance?
Yes. TSS works together with SGK; you need active SGK coverage.
Do I pay at a private hospital with TSS?
At SGK-contracted private hospitals you get most procedures almost free; TSS covers the difference. Scope varies by policy.
Is TSS or private health insurance better?
It depends on your needs. TSS stands out for affordability, private health insurance for broader coverage. We determine the right one by comparison.