Sintra, PortugalHealth Care in Sintra
Summary: Learn about the health system in Sintra: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Sintra.
The healthcare system in Sintra 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 recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. Public hospitals in Sintra, like the Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, are well-equipped and staffed by professional medical personnel. 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 Sintra, such as the Hospital CUF Sintra, offer a high standard of care in a comfortable environment.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Sintra
- Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca - Public Hospital, located in Amadora, about 20 minutes by car from Sintra.
- Hospital CUF Sintra - Private Hospital, located in Sintra.
- Clínica de Stº António - Private Clinic, located in Amadora, about 20 minutes by car from Sintra.
Emergency Services in Sintra
Yes, there are ambulance services in Sintra. In case of an emergency, you can call 112, the European emergency number. The response time of the ambulance service is generally good, but there can be delays during peak times or in remote areas.
Health Insurance Companies in Sintra
Popular private health insurers in Sintra include Médis and Multicare. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans, including options for expats. However, many expats and digital nomads opt for specialized expat health insurance providers, which offer coverage tailored to their specific needs. These providers often include international medical evacuation and repatriation services, which are not typically covered by local insurers.
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.
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