15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Luxembourg
Last updated on Jan 04, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Luxembourg is generally considered to be very high, with a wide range of medical services available. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a high number of doctors and nurses per capita, and a wide range of modern medical facilities. In comparison to the US, Luxembourg has a higher life expectancy and lower infant mortality rate. Emergency services in Luxembourg are generally reliable and efficient. Ambulance services are available 24 hours a day, and can be called by dialing 112. The emergency services are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical personnel.
How are healthcare services Luxembourg?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Luxembourg, they replied:
"Purchase supplemental health insurance. You need your CNS card to do it and that usually takes a few weeks to arrive. As soon as it does, you can purchase the insurance which covers things like private rooms, whatever CNS doesn't cover and travel abroad. Go directly to the insurance company (there are many to choose from) and ask for a quote. Going to an independent agent can be much more expensive. I came from the US where we had international insurance until January when we went "local" and went onto Luxembourg's health insurance system (CNS) . I broke a tooth in February and we didn't have our CNS cards yet. But I mailed in all my expenses after the tooth extraction, stiches and post implanted (this was 2200 euro) . They paid zero. I have resubmitted my request after the implant was completed for an additional 1500 euro and still have not received anything from CNS. Also I find it very difficult with CNS because of the language barrier on my end. In the meantime we applied for supplemental insurance and was told I had to wait 8 months for dental coverage. I also travel to the US to see our children. I have a separate policy for that at a cost of 119 euro a year + 43 euros a month if I stay over 3 months. My daughter is employed, but we also had to purchase independent insurance for my college aged son at a cost of $1700/year. The supplemental insurance for my husband and me costs about 225 euro/month. If you don't go to the US for more than 4 weeks, you are set, but if you do, you may want to look into costs of coverage. CNS will only pay what they would pay in Luxembourg for coverage so you really do need something," said an expat in Luxembourg City.
"Luxembourg offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally high, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, and expats in Luxembourg can use the public healthcare system by registering with the local commune and obtaining a health insurance card. Expats can also opt for private healthcare, which is more expensive but offers more choice and flexibility," commented one expat living in Luxembourg.
What are medical services in Luxembourg like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Luxembourg, they replied:
"Luxembourg offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including both public and private healthcare. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides free or low-cost medical care to all citizens. Private healthcare is also available and is generally of a high standard. Luxembourg has a wide range of medical specialists, including general practitioners, specialists in internal medicine, paediatrics, obstetrics and gynaecology, and many more. The country also has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, offering a range of treatments and services. Luxembourg also has a number of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications," wrote an expat living in Luxembourg.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Luxembourg?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Luxembourg are generally considered to be expensive. The cost of healthcare is high due to the country's high standards of care, and the cost of health insurance is also high due to the country's high cost of living. However, the government does provide subsidies to help make healthcare and health insurance more affordable for those who need it. Additionally, there are a number of private health insurance companies that offer competitive rates," wrote an expat living in Luxembourg.
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What are emergency services like in Luxembourg?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Luxembourg wrote:
"We live in the city so the Hospital on Rt d'Arlon is about 3 blocks from us. We have found care to be very good. They do things differently than in the US, but we have been fortunate not to have needed it for anything severe. I believe they are public? But only one remains open on the weekend, so you need to call or look online to see which city hospital is open for emergencies," commented one expat living in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg.
"Emergency services in Luxembourg are highly efficient and reliable. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 112, which is the emergency number for Luxembourg. The operator will then connect you to the appropriate emergency service. Ambulances are typically dispatched within minutes of the call being made," wrote one expat.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Luxembourg City is the largest city in Luxembourg and is home to a wide variety of medical specialists. The city is home to several hospitals, including the Centre Hospitalier de Luxembourg, the Centre Hospitalier Emile Mayrisch, and the Centre Hospitalier de la Ville de Luxembourg. Additionally, the city is home to a number of private clinics and medical centers, such as the Clinique de la Tour, the Clinique du Nord, and the Clinique du Parc. The city of Esch-sur-Alzette is also home to a number of medical specialists, including the Centre Hospitalier de l'Ouest, the Centre Hospitalier du Sud, and the Centre Hospitalier du Nord. Additionally, the city is home to a number of private clinics and medical centers, such as the Clinique du Parc, the Clinique du Nord, and the Clinique du Centre. The city of Differdange is home to a number of medical specialists, including the Centre Hospitalier de Differdange, the Centre Hospitalier du Nord, and the Centre Hospitalier du Sud. Additionally, the city is home to a number of private clinics and medical centers, such as the Clinique du Parc, the Clinique du Nord, and the Clinique du Centre. The city of Dudelange is home to a number of medical specialists, including the Centre Hospitalier de Dudelange, the Centre Hospitalier du Nord, and the Centre Hospitalier du Sud. Additionally, the city is home to a number of private clinics and medical centers, such as the Clinique du Parc, the Clinique du Nord, and the Clinique du Centre," wrote one expat.
Are common prescription medications available in Luxembourg?
"Yes, all medications are easily available. And are FAR LESS expensive than in the US! My husbands meds are covered at 100% with a cost of .04 cents to print the paper. My meds are also covered at about 85%, but I will submit the difference to my supplemental insurance company," said an expat in Luxembourg City.
"Prescription medications are widely available in Luxembourg. Most pharmacies in the country carry a wide range of medications, including both generic and brand-name drugs. Many pharmacies also offer online ordering and delivery services, making it easy to get the medications you need. In addition, the Luxembourg government provides a range of subsidies and discounts for prescription medications, making them more affordable for those who need them," commented one expat living in Luxembourg.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Luxembourg?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Luxembourg are of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. Luxembourg has a high number of doctors and nurses per capita, and the country is well-equipped with modern medical technology. The government provides free healthcare to all citizens, and there are a number of private healthcare providers available. Luxembourg also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the National Center for Oncology, which provide advanced treatments for cancer and other serious illnesses," remarked one expat in Luxembourg.
As a foreigner living in Luxembourg, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Luxembourg, you will have access to public healthcare. Luxembourg has a comprehensive public healthcare system that is funded by the government and is free for all residents. The system is based on a network of hospitals, clinics, and doctors, and provides a wide range of services, including preventive care, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. The quality of care is generally high, and the system is well-regarded for its efficiency and accessibility," commented one expat living in Luxembourg.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Luxembourg if they have access to public healthcare in Luxembourg. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Luxembourg during the pandemic have been positive overall. The healthcare system has been very responsive to the needs of the population, providing timely and effective care. The government has also taken steps to ensure that the healthcare system is well-equipped to handle the influx of patients, including increasing the number of hospital beds and expanding the capacity of the healthcare system. Additionally, the government has implemented measures to ensure that the healthcare system is accessible to all, such as providing free testing and treatment for those who cannot afford it. Overall, the healthcare system in Luxembourg has been able to effectively respond to the pandemic and provide quality care to its citizens," remarked one expat in Luxembourg.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Luxembourg?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Luxembourg about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Luxembourg before having a baby, as it may differ from the system in your home country. Make sure to register with a doctor and a midwife as soon as possible, and to familiarise yourself with the maternity services available in the country. It is also important to ensure that you have the necessary paperwork in order, such as a birth certificate and a residence permit. Additionally, it is a good idea to join a local expat group or forum, as this can be a great source of support and advice. Finally, don't forget to enjoy the experience and take time to relax and bond with your new baby," said one person in Luxembourg.
"-Visit the hospital before giving birth to familiarize yourself. -Practice breathing in advance -Choose and book a place in creche well in advance if you plan to send your baby to creche. After you give birth, you will be tired and very busy to do anything but taking care of your baby, and yourself. -Meet with other expecting moms before you give birth if you have chance. I became food friends with a few expecting mothers and we have supported each other a great deal. You can meet them through the meetings of BabyWellclinic. I met mine through French class, and also two of them are my neighbors," remarked one expat in Luxembourg.
Are healthcare services good in Luxembourg?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Luxembourg. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Luxembourg are of a high quality and are provided by both public and private providers. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and residents. Private healthcare is also available and is often used for more specialized treatments. Luxembourg has a wide range of medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. The country also has a well-developed network of medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Luxembourg also has a number of health insurance providers, which offer a range of plans to suit different needs," remarked one in Luxembourg.
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 Luxembourg?
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- Is there a lot of crime in Luxembourg?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Luxembourg?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Luxembourg accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Luxembourg like?
- Is the cost of living in Luxembourg high?
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- What are healthcare services like in Luxembourg?
- Is the cost of living in Luxembourg high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Luxembourg?
- What is the weather like in Luxembourg?
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- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Luxembourg?
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