11 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Montana
Last updated on Feb 21, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Montana is generally on par with the rest of the United States. Montana has a wide range of medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialty care centers. Emergency services are available throughout the state, and ambulances can be called by dialing 911.
How are healthcare services Montana?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Montana, they replied:
"Montana offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, mental health services, and emergency care. The state is home to a number of hospitals and medical facilities, including the Billings Clinic, St. Patrick Hospital, and Kalispell Regional Medical Center. These hospitals offer a variety of services, including general surgery, cardiology, oncology, and obstetrics and gynecology. In addition, Montana has a number of rural health clinics and community health centers that provide primary care services to underserved populations. The state also has a number of mental health centers and substance abuse treatment facilities," said an expat in Montana.
What are medical services in Montana like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Montana, they replied:
"Montana offers a wide range of medical services to its residents. The state has a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that provide quality care to patients. Montana also has a variety of specialists, including primary care physicians, surgeons, and specialists in mental health, women's health, and pediatric care. Additionally, the state has a number of rural health centers that provide care to those living in rural areas. Montana also has a number of programs and initiatives to help ensure that all residents have access to quality healthcare," commented one expat living in Montana.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Montana?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Montana can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and provider. Generally, health insurance premiums in Montana are higher than the national average, and the cost of healthcare services can also be higher than in other states. However, there are a variety of health insurance plans available in Montana, and some of them may offer more affordable coverage. Additionally, there are government programs and subsidies available to help make healthcare and health insurance more affordable for those who qualify," wrote one expat.
What are emergency services like in Montana?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Montana wrote:
"Emergency services in Montana are provided by a variety of organizations, including local fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and ambulance services. To call for an ambulance, dial 911 and provide the operator with your location and the nature of the emergency. The operator will then dispatch the appropriate emergency services to your location," mentioned one expat in Montana.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Montana is home to many medical specialists, but some cities and areas in the state have particularly excellent options. Billings is a great choice for those seeking a variety of medical specialists, as the city is home to Billings Clinic, St. Vincent Healthcare, and Eastern Montana Veterans Home. In Missoula, there are many leading specialists, including Missoula ENT, Zootown Dermatology, and Missoula Diagnostic Imaging. Kalispell has some of the best medical specialists in the state, with Kalispell Regional Healthcare, St. Luke Healthcare, Flathead Mental Health, and Flathead Valley Community College all located in the city. Finally, Great Falls has a wide selection of medical specialists, including Benefis Health System, Benefis West Medical Center, and Cardiology Associates of Great Falls," said an expat in Montana.
Are common prescription medications available in Montana?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Montana. Most pharmacies in the state carry a wide variety of medications, including both brand-name and generic drugs. Many of the larger chain pharmacies also offer online ordering and delivery services. Additionally, many independent pharmacies in Montana offer personalized services and specialized medications," commented one expat living in Montana.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Montana?
"Medical care in Montana is generally very good. Patients consistently rate the care they receive from providers to be of a high quality, and the state has some of the best hospitals in the region. Montana is known for having top-notch medical professionals and facilities, as well as a high level of access for patients. Additionally, Montana has a large network of clinics and other healthcare facilities, as well as an active telemedicine program, ensuring many residents can receive the care they need no matter where they are located," remarked one expat in Montana.
As a foreigner living in Montana, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Montana, you will have access to public healthcare. Montana has a Medicaid program, which provides health coverage to low-income individuals and families. The program covers a wide range of services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and more. The quality of care varies depending on the provider, but overall, Montana's public healthcare system is considered to be of good quality," wrote one expat.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Montana if they have access to public healthcare in Montana. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Montana during the pandemic have been largely 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. They have also been very accommodating in terms of scheduling appointments and providing telehealth services. I have also been impressed with the level of care and attention I have received from the healthcare providers in my area. They have been very understanding and supportive of my needs during this difficult time," wrote one expat.
About the Author
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.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in Montana?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Montana?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Montana?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Montana accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Montana like?
- Is the cost of living in Montana high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Montana?
- What are healthcare services like in Montana?
- Is the cost of living in Montana high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Montana?
- What is the weather like in Montana?
- Are there good restaurants in Montana?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Montana?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Montana?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Montana?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Montana?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Montana?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?