Health Care in Faro

The healthcare system in Faro is a blend of public and private services. The public healthcare system, known as Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), is accessible to all residents, including foreigners, while the private sector offers a range of services for those who prefer or require specialized care.

Portugal's Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Portugal, the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), is generally used by both locals and foreigners. It is often recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries due to its wide network and comprehensive services. Public hospitals in Faro, like Hospital de Faro, provide a range of services and are equipped to handle a variety of medical situations. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Portugal. However, many expats prefer to use private hospitals due to shorter waiting times and often more personalized care. Private hospitals are also recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. Private hospitals in Faro, such as Hospital Particular do Algarve, offer a high standard of care and a wide range of services.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Faro

There are several recommended clinics and hospitals in Faro. These include:

• Hospital de Faro (Public) - Located in the city center, this hospital offers a wide range of services.
• Hospital Particular do Algarve (Private) - This hospital is known for its high standard of care and wide range of services.
• Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve (Public) - This is a university hospital that specializes in a variety of medical fields.

In the event that there are no suitable hospitals in Faro, expats often travel to nearby cities such as Lisbon or Porto for specialized medical care and surgeries. These cities are approximately 2-3 hours away by car.

Emergency Services in Faro

Yes, there are ambulance services in Faro. In case of an emergency, you can call 112, the European emergency number. The response time can vary, but generally, the services are efficient and timely.

Health Insurance Companies in Faro

There are several popular private health insurers in Faro. These include Médis, Multicare, and Allianz. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans that cover various medical services. While some expats and digital nomads use these local companies, many prefer to use specialized expat health insurance providers that offer coverage in multiple countries and have services tailored to the needs of expats.