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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Paraguay | Expat Exchange
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National Pantheon of the Heroes in Asuncion, Paraguay

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Paraguay

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 08, 2024

Summary: The quality of medical care in Paraguay is generally considered to be lower than that of the United States. Emergency services are available, but they are often limited in terms of resources and personnel. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 911 or contact the local fire department.

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How are healthcare services Paraguay?

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

"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 expat who moved to Paraguay.

What are medical services in Paraguay like?

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

"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 expat living in Paraguay.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Paraguay?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Paraguay are generally considered to be relatively affordable compared to other countries. Public healthcare is available to all citizens and is free or heavily subsidized, while private healthcare is also available for those who can afford it. Health insurance is also available, but it is not mandatory and is often expensive. However, there are some government-subsidized health insurance plans available for those who cannot afford private health insurance," wrote one expat.

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What are emergency services like in Paraguay?

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

"Emergency services in Paraguay are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 911. This number is free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The operator will be able to dispatch an ambulance to the location of the emergency. It is important to provide as much information as possible, such as the exact location, the type of emergency, and any other relevant details," mentioned one expat in Paraguay.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The capital city of Asunción is home to some of the best medical specialists in Paraguay. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Ciudad del Este, Encarnación, and Pedro Juan Caballero. Additionally, the towns of Villarrica and San Bernardino are known for their excellent medical care," said one expat.

Are common prescription medications available in Paraguay?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Paraguay. Most medications are available in pharmacies, and some are available over the counter. Many medications are imported from other countries, such as Argentina, Brazil, and the United States. Prices for medications can vary depending on the type of medication and the pharmacy. It is important to note that some medications may require a prescription from a doctor in order to be purchased," wrote one expat.

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

"Medical facilities and medical care in Paraguay are generally of good quality. The country has a well-developed public health system, with a network of hospitals and clinics providing a range of services. Private health care is also available, and many Paraguayans opt for this option due to the higher quality of care. The country has a number of highly trained medical professionals, and the quality of care is generally good. However, access to medical care can be limited in rural areas, and the cost of private health care can be prohibitive for many," wrote an expat living in Paraguay.

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

"Yes, foreigners living in Paraguay have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Paraguay is generally considered to be of good quality, with a wide range of services available. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and legal residents. The public healthcare system is made up of a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers, which provide a range of services including primary care, specialist care, and emergency care. The quality of care varies from place to place, but overall it is considered to be of a good standard," said an expat in Paraguay.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on Paraguay's healthcare system. Many hospitals and clinics have had to reduce their services due to a lack of resources and personnel. Additionally, the government has implemented strict measures to limit the spread of the virus, such as closing borders and restricting movement. As a result, access to healthcare has become more difficult for many people, especially those living in rural areas. Despite these challenges, the government has taken steps to ensure that essential services are still available, such as providing free testing and treatment for those who need it. Additionally, the government has implemented a number of initiatives to support healthcare workers, such as providing financial assistance and protective equipment," said one expat.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Paraguay?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Paraguay about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Paraguay before having a baby there. Make sure to find a doctor or midwife who speaks your language and is familiar with the medical system in Paraguay. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Paraguay. It is also a good idea to connect with other expat parents who have had babies in Paraguay to get advice and support. Finally, make sure to take the necessary steps to ensure that your baby is registered with the Paraguayan government and has the necessary documents to travel in and out of the country," explained one expat living in Paraguay.

Are healthcare services good in Paraguay?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Paraguay. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in Paraguay are generally of a lower quality than in other countries. The public healthcare system is largely underfunded and understaffed, leading to long wait times and limited access to specialized care. Private healthcare is available, but it is often expensive and out of reach for many people. The government has made efforts to improve access to healthcare, including providing free healthcare to children and pregnant women, but there is still much room for improvement," said one expat in Paraguay.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

National Pantheon of the Heroes in Asuncion, Paraguay

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