Insider's Guide to the Health System in Argentina

Argentina has a public and private healthcare system, both of which are available to foreigners. The public healthcare system is called the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS) and is funded by the government. It is free for citizens and permanent residents, but foreigners must pay a fee for services. The public healthcare system is used by both locals and foreigners, and is generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Argentina are generally well-equipped and staffed, but may lack the latest technology and treatments.

Argentina's Private Healthcare System

Argentina also has a private healthcare system, which is used primarily by expats and digital nomads. Private healthcare is more expensive than public healthcare, but it offers more advanced treatments and technologies. Private hospitals in Argentina are generally well-equipped and staffed, and are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.

Argentina's Top Hospitals

Some of the most well-known hospitals in Argentina include:

• Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires (private, Buenos Aires)
• Hospital de Clínicas José de San Martín (public, Buenos Aires)
• Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires (private, Buenos Aires)
• Hospital de Pediatría Garrahan (public, Buenos Aires)
• Hospital Privado Centro Médico de Córdoba (private, Córdoba)
• Hospital Universitario Austral (public, Pilar)

Health Insurance Companies in Argentina

The most popular private health insurers in Argentina are OSDE, Swiss Medical, and Galeno. These companies are used by both locals and foreigners, and offer a range of plans and services. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although some may opt for specialized expat health insurance providers.

Insider Tips from Expats in Argentina: How to Navigate the Health System

"Q19 I have no way of making a comparison In the UK the NHS costs nothing at the point of delivery," commented one expat living in Buenos Aires , Argentina.

"Argentina has a well-developed healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals and clinics providing a range of medical services. The public system is free for all citizens, while private services are available for those who can afford them. The quality of care in both public and private facilities is generally good, with a wide range of specialists and modern equipment. In addition, Argentina has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer treatment centers, that provide advanced care," mentioned one expat living in Argentina.

"Remember, Argentina does not offer its Government Medical Insurance if you are a senior," commented one expat living in Mendoza, Argentina.

"As a newcomer, one of the first things you should do is buy international heath insurance that can be used at any private facility in the country. They are options for private insurance that can be bought from an individual private hospital but then if they do not have the equipment needed you will have to pay out of pocket to go to another facility. So with an international health policy you can be treated anywhere you choose. This is the type of policy I have. It also covers me anywhere else in the world and I have chosen to have the US option as well. The insurance is affordable and COMPREHENSIVE. If you have a medical condition, bring your doctors notes and copies of your prescriptions," mentioned one expat living in Argentina.

"Healthcare services in Argentina are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and legal residents. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of good quality. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay a fee. Expats in Argentina typically use the public healthcare system, as it is often more affordable than private healthcare. However, some expats may opt for private healthcare if they are able to afford it," said an expat in Argentina.