Health Care in Portofino
Summary: Explore healthcare options for expatriates and digital nomads in Portofino: uncover top-rated providers, hospitals, and medical facilities to meet your needs while living abroad in Portofino.
Portofino, a small Italian fishing village, is known for its picturesque harbor and historical association with celebrity visitors. Despite its small size, it is part of Italy's comprehensive healthcare system, which is a mix of public and private services.
Italy's Healthcare System
Italy's healthcare system is primarily public, with private healthcare serving as a supplement. The public healthcare system, known as Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), provides universal coverage to all residents, including expats and digital nomads. While public hospitals in Portofino are equipped to handle serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, the quality of care can vary. Some people recommend using private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries due to their perceived higher quality of care. Private hospitals in Portofino are typically modern and well-equipped, offering a high standard of care.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Portofino
Portofino, due to its small size, does not have its own major hospital. However, there are several nearby options.
- The Santa Margherita Ligure Hospital, a public hospital located in Santa Margherita Ligure, is approximately 10 minutes by car from Portofino.
- The San Martino Hospital, a large public hospital in Genoa, is approximately 45 minutes by car from Portofino and offers a wide range of specialized medical care.
- The Galliera Hospital, also in Genoa, is a public hospital specializing in geriatrics and is approximately 45 minutes by car from Portofino.
Emergency Services in Portofino
Emergency services are available in Portofino. In case of an emergency, you can call 118 for an ambulance. The response time can vary depending on the severity of the situation and the location, but generally, the service is efficient.
Health Insurance Companies in Portofino
There are several popular private health insurance companies in Portofino, including Generali, UnipolSai, and Allianz. These companies offer a range of coverage options, from basic to comprehensive. While some expats and digital nomads choose to use these local companies, many opt for specialized expat health insurance providers that offer coverage tailored to their unique needs.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.