Understanding the Health System in Andorra
Summary: Gain insight into the health care system in Andorra. Explore its accessibility and limitations for expatriates, remote workers, retirees, and others who choose to live in Andorra.
Andorra has a public and private healthcare system, both of which are highly regarded. The public healthcare system is called Servei d'Assistència Sanitària (SAS) and is funded by the government. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Andorra, although it is not used by many foreigners. Public hospitals are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, and are known for their high quality of care.
Andorra's Public Healthcare System
Andorra's public healthcare system, Servei d'Assistència Sanitària (SAS), is funded by the government and provides free or low-cost healthcare to all citizens and legal residents. The public healthcare system covers a wide range of services, including primary care, hospitalization, and specialist care. SAS also covers some prescription drugs, although not all.
Andorra's Private Healthcare System
Andorra also has a private healthcare system, which is used primarily by expats and digital nomads. Private hospitals are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, and are known for their high quality of care. Private healthcare is more expensive than public healthcare, but it is often faster and more convenient. Private health insurance is available from a variety of companies, including local insurers and international providers.
Andorra's Top Hospitals
Andorra has several top hospitals, including:
- Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau (public hospital in Andorra la Vella)
- Hospital de Sant Joan de Reus (public hospital in Escaldes-Engordany)
- Hospital de Sant Antoni Abat (public hospital in Escaldes-Engordany)
- Hospital de Sant Miquel (public hospital in Escaldes-Engordany)
- Clinica Planas (private hospital in Andorra la Vella)
- Clinica IMED (private hospital in Escaldes-Engordany)
- Clinica Quirón (private hospital in Escaldes-Engordany)
Health Insurance Companies in Andorra
The most popular private health insurers in Andorra are La Caixa, SegurCaixa Adeslas, and DKV Seguros. These companies offer a variety of health insurance plans, including basic coverage, comprehensive coverage, and international coverage. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Andorra: How to Navigate the Health System
"Andorra has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. The country has a number of public and private hospitals, as well as a network of primary care centers and specialist clinics. The public healthcare system is free for all citizens and residents, while private healthcare is also available. The country also has a number of specialist centers for specific medical conditions, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health. In addition, Andorra has a number of pharmacies and medical laboratories, providing access to a wide range of medications and diagnostic tests," commented one member living in Andorra.
"Andorra has a public healthcare system that provides a wide range of services to its citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare in Andorra is generally considered to be good, with a wide range of medical services available. Foreign residents in Andorra are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for some services. Expats in Andorra can use the public healthcare system by registering with the local health centre and obtaining a health card. This card allows them to access the same services as citizens, although they may need to pay a fee for some services," commented one member living in Andorra.
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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