Essential Guide to the Health System in Paraguay

Paraguay's healthcare system is composed of both public and private healthcare options. The public healthcare system is called Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS) and is free for Paraguayan citizens. Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system, however, it is not widely used by expats and digital nomads. Public hospitals are generally not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery, as they are often overcrowded and lack the necessary resources. Private hospitals are typically recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are better equipped and have more resources.

Paraguay's Public Healthcare System

Paraguay's public healthcare system, Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), is free for Paraguayan citizens. Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system, however, it is not widely used by expats and digital nomads. Public hospitals are generally not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery, as they are often overcrowded and lack the necessary resources.

Paraguay's Private Healthcare System

Paraguay's private healthcare system is composed of private hospitals and clinics, as well as private health insurance companies. Private hospitals and clinics are typically recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are better equipped and have more resources. Private health insurance companies are the most popular way to pay for private medical care, and expats and digital nomads typically use these companies.

Paraguay's Top Hospitals

Some of the most well known hospitals in Paraguay include:

• Hospital de Clínicas (public hospital located in Asunción)
• Hospital de Niños (public hospital located in Asunción)
• Hospital San Juan de Dios (private hospital located in Asunción)
• Hospital San Roque (private hospital located in Ciudad del Este)
• Hospital San José (private hospital located in Encarnación)

Health Insurance Companies in Paraguay

The most popular private health insurers in Paraguay are: Banco Unión, Banco Itaú, Banco Continental, and Banco Amambay. These companies offer a variety of health insurance plans, including individual, family, and group plans. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies for private medical care.

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

"Paraguay has a public health system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The public health system is supplemented by private health care providers, which offer more comprehensive services. The quality of medical care in Paraguay varies depending on the region and the provider. In general, medical services are more accessible in urban areas than in rural areas. The government has taken steps to improve access to medical care in rural areas, including the construction of new health centers and the training of health professionals," commented one member living in Paraguay.

"Healthcare services in Paraguay 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 a lower standard than private healthcare. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Paraguay generally use the public healthcare system, as it is more affordable than private healthcare. However, some expats may opt to use private healthcare if they are able to afford it," commented one member living in Paraguay.