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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Wash DC | Expat Exchange
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11 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Wash DC

AGS Worldwide Movers
AGS Worldwide Movers

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 17, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Washington DC is generally considered to be on par with the rest of the United States. Emergency services are well-equipped and reliable, and ambulances can be called by dialing 911.

How are healthcare services Wash DC?

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

"Washington DC offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, mental health services, and preventive care. The city is home to some of the best hospitals and medical facilities in the country, including MedStar Washington Hospital Center, George Washington University Hospital, and Children's National Medical Center. These hospitals offer a variety of services, from emergency care to specialized treatments. Additionally, there are numerous community health centers located throughout the city, providing access to quality healthcare for all residents," wrote one expat.

What are medical services in Wash DC like?

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

"Washington, D.C. offers a wide range of medical services, from primary care to specialized care. The city is home to many hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide comprehensive care for a variety of medical needs. Patients can access a variety of services, including preventive care, diagnostic testing, and treatments for acute and chronic conditions. Additionally, Washington, D.C. is home to a number of specialty care centers, such as cancer centers, women's health centers, and mental health facilities. Patients can also access a variety of alternative and complementary medicine services, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, and chiropractic care," wrote an expat living in Wash DC.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Wash DC?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Washington DC can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums in the District of Columbia is higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services is also higher than the national average. Additionally, the cost of health insurance in the District of Columbia is affected by the high cost of living in the area. As a result, many people in the District of Columbia struggle to afford the cost of healthcare and health insurance," remarked one expat in Wash DC.

What are emergency services like in Wash DC?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Wash DC wrote:

"Emergency services in Washington DC are provided by the DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department (DCFEMS). DCFEMS provides emergency medical services, fire suppression, hazardous materials response, and technical rescue services. To call for an ambulance, dial 911 from any phone. The operator will ask for your location and the nature of the emergency. The operator will then dispatch an ambulance to the scene," said one expat.

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Washington, D.C. is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country. The city is home to a variety of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a wide range of services. The downtown area is home to many of the city's top medical specialists, including those specializing in cardiology, neurology, oncology, and orthopedics. The Georgetown and Dupont Circle neighborhoods are also home to a number of medical specialists, including those specializing in endocrinology, gastroenterology, and rheumatology. The Capitol Hill and Foggy Bottom neighborhoods are also home to a number of medical specialists, including those specializing in dermatology, ophthalmology, and urology," remarked one expat living in Wash DC.

Are common prescription medications available in Wash DC?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Washington DC. Pharmacies in the city carry a wide variety of medications, including those for common conditions such as allergies, asthma, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Many pharmacies also offer generic versions of brand-name medications, which can be more affordable for patients. Additionally, many pharmacies offer delivery services, allowing customers to have their medications delivered directly to their homes," said one expat living in Wash DC.

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

"Medical facilities and medical care in Washington DC are generally of a high quality. The city is home to some of the best hospitals in the country, including the renowned MedStar Washington Hospital Center and the George Washington University Hospital. The city also has a wide range of medical specialists, from primary care physicians to specialists in a variety of fields. Additionally, the city has a number of community health centers that provide quality care to those in need. In general, Washington DC offers excellent medical care and facilities," commented one expat living in Wash DC.

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

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Washington DC, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Washington DC is known as DC Health Link, and it provides access to quality, affordable health insurance plans for individuals, families, and small businesses. DC Health Link also offers a variety of programs and services to help individuals and families get the care they need. These include programs such as Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the DC Health Benefit Exchange. Additionally, DC Health Link provides access to a network of providers, including hospitals, doctors, and other healthcare professionals," wrote an expat living in Wash DC.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the local healthcare system in Washington DC. Many hospitals have had to reduce their services and staff due to the strain of the pandemic, leading to longer wait times and reduced access to care. Additionally, the pandemic has caused a surge in telehealth services, allowing patients to access care from the comfort of their own homes. Despite the challenges, the healthcare system in Washington DC has been able to adapt and provide quality care to those in need," remarked one expat living in Wash DC.

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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