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

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 12, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Iowa is generally considered to be on par with the rest of the United States. Iowa has a wide range of medical facilities, from small rural clinics to large urban hospitals, and the quality of care is generally high. Emergency services are well-developed and reliable, with ambulances and other emergency vehicles responding quickly to calls. To call for an ambulance in Iowa, dial 911.

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How are healthcare services Iowa?

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

"Iowa offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, mental health services, and preventive care. The state is home to many excellent hospitals and medical facilities, including the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in Iowa City, MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center in Des Moines, and UnityPoint Health-St. Luke's Hospital in Cedar Rapids. These hospitals offer a variety of services, including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation. In addition, Iowa has many rural health clinics and community health centers that provide primary care and preventive services to underserved populations," remarked one expat in Iowa.

What are medical services in Iowa like?

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

"In Iowa, medical services are widely available and of a high quality. The state has a large network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments. Iowa also has a number of medical research centers and universities that are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and providing the latest treatments. Additionally, Iowa has a number of rural health centers that provide care to underserved populations. The state also has a number of programs and initiatives that are designed to improve access to healthcare for all residents," remarked one expat living in Iowa.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Iowa?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Iowa can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and provider. Health insurance premiums can be high, and out-of-pocket costs for medical care can add up quickly. However, there are a variety of options available to help make healthcare and health insurance more affordable, such as government subsidies, employer-sponsored plans, and health savings accounts," wrote an expat living in Iowa.

What are emergency services like in Iowa?

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

"In Iowa, 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, and will then dispatch the appropriate emergency services to your location," remarked one expat living in Iowa.

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Iowa City is renowned for its highly specialized medical providers and has the highest number of board-certified physicians in the state. Dubuque is home to many renowned medical specialists in a variety of fields, including oncology, neurology, and cardiology. Additionally, Cedar Rapids houses a wide variety of specialty providers and leading hospitals. Des Moines is also a great location for specialized medical care, offering access to general practitioners, primary care physicians, and specialists in many disciplines. In the western part of the state, Sioux City is known for its comprehensive medical services, including a broad range of specialty clinics. Similarly, Waterloo has a wide range of specialists available in the areas of ophthalmology, orthopedics, and internal medicine," wrote one expat.

Are common prescription medications available in Iowa?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Iowa. Pharmacies in the state are able to fill prescriptions for a variety of medications, including antibiotics, pain relievers, antidepressants, and other medications. Many pharmacies also offer generic versions of brand-name medications, which can be more affordable for patients. Additionally, some pharmacies offer special services such as compounding, which allows them to customize medications to meet a patient's specific needs," said one expat.

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

"Medical care in Iowa is generally of a high quality. The state has many top hospitals and clinics that provide excellent services and a high level of care to their patients. Medical facilities in Iowa are equipped with modern technology, including the latest diagnostic tools, state-of-the-art operating rooms, and advanced treatments. Additionally, Iowa has a large network of physicians and health care professionals who provide dedicated and specialized care. Overall, the quality of medical care in Iowa is excellent," remarked one expat living in Iowa.

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

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Iowa, you will have access to public healthcare. Iowa has a Medicaid program that provides health care coverage to low-income individuals and families. The program covers a wide range of services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and mental health services. The quality of care provided by the program is generally good, and the cost of care is usually lower than private insurance," wrote one expat.

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

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

"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Iowa during the pandemic have been mostly positive. The healthcare providers in my area have been very responsive to my needs and have been willing to answer any questions I have had. I have been able to access telehealth services for my appointments, which has been very convenient. The healthcare providers have also been very proactive in providing information about the pandemic and how to stay safe. Overall, I have been very pleased with the care I have received from the local healthcare system during the pandemic," said one expat.

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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