Health Care in Lagos
Summary: Learn about the health system in Lagos: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Lagos.
Lagos has a public and private healthcare system that provides quality medical care to its citizens and visitors. Portugal's public healthcare system is called the Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) and is available to foreigners. Public hospitals in Lagos are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, although the quality of care may vary. At a public hospital in Lagos, patients can expect to receive basic medical care, but may have to wait for longer periods of time for more specialized treatments. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Portugal, although many opt to use private hospitals for more specialized treatments. Private hospitals in Lagos are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they provide more personalized care and shorter wait times.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Lagos
The most popular hospitals and clinics for expats in Lagos are:
- Hospital de Faro - a public hospital located in Faro, approximately 40 minutes by car from Lagos.
- Hospital Particular do Algarve - a private hospital located in Faro, approximately 40 minutes by car from Lagos.
- Clinica Particular do Algarve - a private clinic located in Faro, approximately 40 minutes by car from Lagos.
- Clinica Particular do Algarve - a private clinic located in Lagos, specializing in orthopedic and sports medicine.
Emergency Services in Lagos
Lagos has an emergency ambulance service that can be called by dialing 112. Ambulances typically arrive quickly, although there may be delays in some cases.
Health Insurance Companies in Lagos
The most popular private health insurers in Lagos are: Seguradoras Unidas, Fidelidade, and Lusitania. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although some may opt for specialized expat health insurance providers.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Discovering the Best of Lagos
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Portugal
- Best Places to Live in Portugal
- Real Estate in Portugal
- 6 Important Tips about Health Insurance for Expats in Portugal
- Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Portugal
- More Advice about Retiring in Portugal