15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in California

"California offers a wide range of healthcare services, from primary care to specialized treatments. The state is home to some of the best hospitals and medical facilities in the country, including the University of California San Francisco Medical Center, Stanford Health Care, and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. These hospitals offer a variety of services, from emergency care to advanced treatments for cancer, heart disease, and other serious illnesses. In addition, California has a large network of community health centers that provide primary care and preventive services to underserved populations. These centers are located throughout the state, with many located in rural and underserved areas," remarked one expat in California.

"California has a wide range of medical services available to its residents. The state is home to some of the best hospitals and medical centers in the country, offering a variety of specialized treatments and services. California also has a large network of community health centers, providing primary care and preventive services to underserved populations. Additionally, California has a robust system of mental health services, including counseling, therapy, and support groups. The state also offers a variety of programs and services to help individuals with disabilities access the care they need," wrote one expat.

"Healthcare and health insurance in California can be expensive. The cost of health insurance premiums can vary depending on the type of plan and the provider. Additionally, the cost of healthcare services can be high, especially for those without insurance. Many people in California rely on government programs such as Medi-Cal and Covered California to help cover the cost of healthcare and health insurance," said one expat.

"In California, emergency services are available 24/7 to respond to any medical, fire, or police emergency. To call for an ambulance, dial 911 from any phone. The operator will ask for your location and the nature of the emergency, and will dispatch the appropriate emergency services to your location," wrote an expat living in California.

"California is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country. Major cities such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego have a wide range of healthcare providers, from traditional doctors to specialists in unconventional medicine. For example, Los Angeles is home to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, one of the nation’s top hospitals, while San Francisco has some of the most renowned surgeons and researchers in the world. In addition, areas such as Palo Alto, Orange County and the Bay Area each boast a wide range of specialists in various fields of medicine," said an expat in California.

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in California. Pharmacies in the state are able to fill prescriptions from doctors and other healthcare providers. These medications can range from antibiotics to pain relievers to cholesterol-lowering drugs. In addition, California pharmacies are able to provide specialty medications, such as those used to treat cancer or HIV/AIDS," commented one expat who moved to California.

"Medical facilities and medical care in California are generally of a very high quality. California boasts many highly trained, experienced, and specialized medical professionals, and the state is home to some of the best hospitals and health centers in the country. Medical facilities in California provide advanced treatments and technology, and are equipped with cutting-edge medical equipment to deliver exceptional care. Additionally, California has a very comprehensive healthcare system through which both individuals and families can easily access quality medical care and services," said one expat living in California.

"Yes, as a foreigner living in California, you will have access to public healthcare. California has a variety of public healthcare options, including Medi-Cal, which is a low-cost health insurance program for people with limited incomes, and Covered California, which is a health insurance marketplace where you can compare and purchase health insurance plans. California also has a variety of public health clinics and hospitals that provide free or low-cost care. The quality of care varies depending on the facility, but overall, California's public healthcare system is generally considered to be of good quality," wrote one expat.

"Accessing healthcare during the pandemic in California has been a challenge. Many healthcare providers have had to limit their services due to the pandemic, and some have even had to close their doors. Telehealth has become a popular option for many, but it is not always available or accessible for everyone. Additionally, many people have had difficulty getting appointments with their healthcare providers due to the high demand for services. Furthermore, the cost of healthcare has increased significantly, making it difficult for many to afford the care they need," wrote one expat.