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

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 13, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Virginia is generally considered to be on par with the rest of the United States. Virginia has a wide range of medical facilities, from small community hospitals to large academic medical centers. Emergency services are well-developed and reliable, with ambulances available to respond to calls quickly. To call for an ambulance in Virginia, dial 911.

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How are healthcare services Virginia?

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

"Virginia offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, mental health services, and preventive care. The state is home to many top-rated hospitals and medical facilities, including the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville, Inova Fairfax Hospital in Falls Church, and Sentara Norfolk General Hospital in Norfolk. Additionally, Virginia has a number of community health centers that provide comprehensive care to underserved populations. These centers are located throughout the state, with many in the larger cities such as Richmond, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach," remarked one expat in Virginia.

What are medical services in Virginia like?

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

"In Virginia, medical services are widely available and of high quality. The state is home to a variety of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a range of services, from primary care to specialized treatments. Virginia also has a number of medical research centers and universities that are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and providing the latest treatments. Additionally, the state has a number of health insurance plans available to residents, making it easier to access the care they need," wrote an expat living in Virginia.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Virginia?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Virginia can be expensive. The cost of healthcare services and health insurance premiums vary depending on the type of coverage and the provider. Generally, health insurance premiums tend to be higher in Virginia than in other states, and the cost of healthcare services can also be high. Additionally, many people in Virginia are uninsured, which can lead to higher costs for those who do have insurance," said an expat in Virginia.

What are emergency services like in Virginia?

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

"Emergency services in Virginia are provided by a variety of organizations, including fire departments, police departments, and emergency medical services. To call for an ambulance in Virginia, dial 911. This will connect you to a dispatcher who will send an ambulance to your location. The dispatcher will also ask you questions to determine the severity of the situation and provide instructions on how to help the patient until the ambulance arrives," remarked one expat in Virginia.

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Virginia has a wide variety of medical specialists located throughout the state. The cities of Richmond, Norfolk, and Fairfax have some of the best selections of medical specialists in the state. In addition, the Northern Virginia area, which includes cities such as Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church, is home to a large number of medical specialists. The Hampton Roads area, which includes cities such as Virginia Beach, Newport News, and Hampton, is also home to a wide variety of medical specialists," said one expat living in Virginia.

Are common prescription medications available in Virginia?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Virginia. Pharmacies in Virginia are able to fill prescriptions from doctors licensed in Virginia or any other state. Patients can also purchase medications over the counter at pharmacies, drug stores, and other retail outlets. Additionally, many online pharmacies are available to Virginia residents, allowing them to purchase medications from the comfort of their own home," remarked one expat living in Virginia.

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

"Medical facilities and medical care in Virginia are of a high quality. The state is home to some of the best hospitals in the country, with many of them ranked among the top in the nation. Virginia also has a wide range of medical specialists, from primary care physicians to specialists in a variety of fields. The state also has a strong network of community health centers, providing access to quality care for those who may not have access to traditional health care. In addition, Virginia has a number of medical research centers, allowing for the development of new treatments and technologies," remarked one expat living in Virginia.

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

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Virginia, you will have access to public healthcare. Virginia's public healthcare system is administered by the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS). The DMAS provides a variety of health care services, including Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the Family Access to Medical Insurance Security (FAMIS) program. These programs provide access to health care services such as doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription drugs, and mental health services. The DMAS also provides assistance with long-term care services, such as nursing home care and home health care," mentioned one expat in Virginia.

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

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

"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Virginia during the pandemic have been mostly positive. The healthcare providers in my area have been very responsive and accommodating to my needs, offering telehealth services and providing timely care. I have also been impressed with the level of communication from my healthcare providers, as they have kept me informed of any changes in their services or policies due to the pandemic. Overall, I have been very pleased with the level of care I have received from my local healthcare system during this difficult time," remarked one expat in Virginia.

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.

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