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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Massachusetts | Expat Exchange
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Harvard Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts

11 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Massachusetts

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 12, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Massachusetts is generally considered to be high compared to the rest of the United States. Massachusetts has a large number of highly-rated hospitals and medical centers, and the state is home to some of the best medical schools in the country. Emergency services in Massachusetts are also excellent, with a well-trained and experienced staff of medical professionals. To call for an ambulance in Massachusetts, dial 911.

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How are healthcare services Massachusetts?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Massachusetts, they replied:

"Massachusetts is home to a wide variety of healthcare services, ranging from primary care to specialized care. The state is home to some of the best hospitals and medical facilities in the country, including Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Boston Children's Hospital. These hospitals offer a wide range of services, from emergency care to complex surgeries. In addition, Massachusetts is home to many community health centers, which provide primary care services to underserved populations. These centers are located throughout the state, with the majority located in urban areas. Massachusetts also has a strong network of mental health providers, offering a range of services from counseling to medication management. Finally, the state is home to a number of specialty care centers, such as cancer centers, fertility clinics, and rehabilitation centers," wrote an expat living in Massachusetts.

What are medical services in Massachusetts like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Massachusetts, they replied:

"Massachusetts has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a wide range of medical services to its residents. The state has a network of hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities that offer a variety of services, including primary care, specialty care, mental health services, and preventive care. Massachusetts also has a number of programs and initiatives designed to improve access to healthcare, such as the Massachusetts Health Connector, which helps residents find and enroll in health insurance plans. Additionally, the state has a number of programs that provide financial assistance to those who need help paying for medical services," mentioned one expat in Massachusetts.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Massachusetts?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Massachusetts can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums in Massachusetts is higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, Massachusetts has some of the highest out-of-pocket costs for healthcare services in the country. These costs can be difficult for many people to afford, especially those who are uninsured or underinsured," said one expat.

What are emergency services like in Massachusetts?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Massachusetts wrote:

"In Massachusetts, emergency services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 911 from any phone. The operator will ask for your location and the nature of the emergency. They will then dispatch an ambulance to your location," wrote an expat living in Massachusetts.

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Massachusetts is known for having a wide array of medical specialists, with multiple cities and areas offering excellent choices. Boston is home to some of the top specialists in the country, including those specializing in pediatrics, neurology, gynecology and other medical fields. In the Greater Boston area, Medford, Quincy and Brookline also offer a range of specialists, from cardiologists to rheumatologists to endocrinologists and more. Along the north shore, Salem, Lynn and Marblehead have doctors who specialize in a number of medical areas. Southern Massachusetts cities such as New Bedford, Fall River, and Plymouth have a selection of medical specialists to offer, along with Springfield and Worcester, located in the western part of the state," remarked one expat in Massachusetts.

Are common prescription medications available in Massachusetts?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Massachusetts. Pharmacies in the state are able to fill prescriptions for a variety of medications, including antibiotics, pain relievers, antidepressants, and other medications. In addition, many pharmacies offer generic versions of brand-name medications, which can be more affordable for patients," mentioned one expat in Massachusetts.

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Massachusetts?

"Massachusetts has a high quality healthcare system and offers access to top-notch medical care. Hospital system in the state feature some of the most advanced medical facilities, including cutting-edge technology, state-of-the-art equipment, and highly trained staff. Massachusetts also offers access to world-class specialists and researchers who are focused on finding treatments for a wide range of health needs. Additionally, the health care system in the state provides a robust network of community clinics, health centers, and other primary care providers. Patients also have access to specialized care at a variety of health care facilities, such as hospices and long-term care facilities. Furthermore, Massachusetts has a comprehensive health insurance system, allowing residents to receive the medical care they need without facing high bills. Overall, Massachusetts provides a high quality of medical care to its residents," wrote an expat living in Massachusetts.

As a foreigner living in Massachusetts, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Massachusetts, you will have access to public healthcare. Massachusetts has a comprehensive public healthcare system, known as MassHealth, which provides access to medical care for low-income individuals and families. MassHealth covers a wide range of services, including primary care, hospital care, mental health services, and prescription drugs. MassHealth also offers a variety of programs to help individuals and families access the care they need, such as transportation assistance and financial assistance," remarked one expat living in Massachusetts.

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Massachusetts if they have access to public healthcare in Massachusetts. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Massachusetts during the pandemic have been largely positive. The healthcare system has been very responsive to the needs of the community, providing telehealth services and expanding access to care. The healthcare system has also been proactive in providing resources and information to help people stay safe and healthy during the pandemic. Additionally, the healthcare system has been quick to respond to any questions or concerns that I have had. Overall, I have been very pleased with the level of care and support that I have received from the local healthcare system during the pandemic," wrote an expat living in Massachusetts.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

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