Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Lisbon

"Choose a healthcare insurance company that has a strong network in your area; some are focused on the Southern region, some across the middle and so on. Look into brokers for lower rates rather than buy the coverage directly from the insurance company or from your bank," commented one expat who moved to Lisbon.

"Lisbon offers a wide range of healthcare services for its citizens. The public healthcare system is provided by the National Health Service (Serviço Nacional de Saúde), which is free for all Portuguese citizens and residents. The system is divided into three levels: primary care, secondary care, and tertiary care. Primary care is provided by family doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, and is available in health centers and hospitals throughout the city. Secondary care is provided by specialists in hospitals and other healthcare facilities, and tertiary care is provided by specialized centers and hospitals. In addition to the public healthcare system, Lisbon also has a number of private healthcare providers, including hospitals, clinics, and medical centers. These private providers offer a range of services, including general and specialized medical care, as well as dental and other health services," said one expat.

"Finding a specialist takes trail and error. But that is true even in my home country," said one expat.

"Lisbon offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and visitors. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide quality care. Many of these facilities are equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. Additionally, Lisbon has a number of specialized medical centers that offer specialized treatments and services such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology. In addition, the city has a number of pharmacies and health stores that provide a variety of medications and health products," remarked one expat in Lisbon.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Lisbon can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Public healthcare is available to all citizens and residents, and is generally less expensive than private healthcare. Private health insurance can be costly, but it can provide more comprehensive coverage and access to a wider range of services. Additionally, some employers may offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of coverage," commented one expat who moved to Lisbon.

"We are required to have a private policy that meets the Schengen Community requirements (go to their website). The highest quality of coverage won't cost more than 3,000 euros a person/year (2017) and most retirees are paying only 2,000 euros annually. This includes dental and eye care, surgeries, private hospital room, unlimited doctor visits and tests," said one expat.

"Close to CufCascais hospital and the Cascais Public Hospital. Emergency services from low-cost ambulances to quick hospital admissions are accessible and good. Care at the private hospital is a private room with a care giver assigned to you. While we Americans will have to purchase private insurance we also have access to the Country's lower priced prescriptions and public clinics for minor cuts, exams, immunizations," remarked one expat in Lisbon.

"Emergency services in Lisbon are provided by the Portuguese National Health Service (Serviço Nacional de Saúde). Ambulance services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 112, the national emergency number. This number is free of charge and can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones," remarked one expat living in Lisbon.

"Yes, there are a good number of medical specialists in Lisbon. People in Lisbon can access a wide range of medical specialists, including general practitioners, specialists in internal medicine, cardiology, neurology, orthopedics, and more. For highly specialized medical care, people in Lisbon can go to one of the many hospitals in the city, such as Hospital de Santa Maria, Hospital de São José, or Hospital da Luz. These hospitals offer a wide range of specialized medical services, including oncology, neurology, cardiology, and more," commented one expat who moved to Lisbon.

"Specialists in every field are no more than 30 mins away. Serious health issues are handled at our private hospital, 10 mins away. Care is quickly provided and done well. Tests are given immediately and results available the next day," said one expat.

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Lisbon. Pharmacies in Lisbon are well-stocked with a wide variety 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. Additionally, many pharmacies offer discounts for seniors and other groups, making it even more affordable to get the medications you need," said one expat.

"Every pharmacy is able to handle your US prescriptions if you bring a request from your US doctor. Pharmacies are usually within 10 mins of most cities and towns and one is always open within 30 mins. Many medications, such as antihistamines and cold, pain and heartburn are available over the pharmacy counter compared to the US. Prices for hypertension meds in the US might cost $300 a month that are $13 for two months here," remarked one expat in Lisbon.

"Lisbon has a wide range of medical facilities and medical care available. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, as well as a variety of specialized clinics and medical centers. The quality of medical care in Lisbon is generally considered to be very good, with a wide range of services available. The Portuguese healthcare system is well-funded and provides access to a range of treatments and services. Lisbon also has a number of pharmacies, providing access to a range of over-the-counter medications," wrote an expat living in Lisbon.

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Lisbon, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Portugal is generally considered to be of a high quality, with a wide range of services available. The Portuguese government provides free healthcare to all citizens and legal residents, and there are a number of public hospitals and clinics throughout the country. The public healthcare system is funded by taxes, and there are also private healthcare options available for those who wish to pay for additional services," commented one expat living in Lisbon, Portugal.

"No problem even during COVID-19 getting monthly injection of special medication at private hospital (CUF)," mentioned one expat in Lisbon.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Lisbon. The healthcare system has had to adapt to the changing needs of the population, with an increased demand for services and resources. The government has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare workers, such as the introduction of telemedicine and the use of protective equipment. Additionally, the government has increased the number of beds in hospitals and provided additional funding for the healthcare system. Despite these measures, the healthcare system has been overwhelmed by the number of patients and the lack of resources. This has led to long waiting times for appointments and delays in treatment," commented one expat who moved to Lisbon, Portugal.