Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Porto, Portugal

"Speak to locals (especially other expats for have been around for at least a few years) to recommend health care providers, especially specialists," said one expat living in Porto.

"Healthcare is superior in Portugal to that in the states at a fraction of the cost," remarked one expat in Porto.

"The cost of public medical care in Portugal is affordable once you're on the National Health System. I have not yet used the private services, so I can't compare their costs, but everyone I know who uses them (especially Americans) says the cost is relatively low. In Portugal there are small co-pays, which are cheaper than in the States (when I lived there), but I've never had to pay a co-pay in Canada (and I've lived in 5 provinces)," commented one expat living in Porto, Portugal.

"I'm closest to a day hospital, but I've never had to use emergency services (yet). So far, I've used only the local health clinic, which is in the public system. The private network is mostly the hospitals like CUF or Lusíadas," remarked one expat in Porto.

"I'm waiting for a specialist referral for ophthalmology, but there's no indication of whether it's in Porto or further afield," remarked one expat in Porto.

"Prescription medicines are dispensed by the local pharmacy, as prescribed by the doctor at the local clinic near my home. The prescriptions are sent via message directly from the doctor to the pharmacy. The one time I've had to get medication, I was prescribed 3 meds for a total of less of than 7 euros, which is cheaper than it would've been in Canada," said an expat in Porto.

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Porto, you will have access to public healthcare. Portugal has a universal healthcare system, which means that all residents, including foreigners, have the right to access healthcare services. However, you may need to register with the local health center and obtain a health card. The public healthcare system in Portugal is generally of a high standard. The hospitals are well-equipped and the doctors are highly trained. Most healthcare professionals speak English, which makes communication easier for foreigners. However, it's worth noting that the public healthcare system can be slow and crowded, especially for non-emergency services. Waiting times can be long, particularly for specialist appointments and surgeries. In addition to the public healthcare system, there is also a wide range of private healthcare providers in Portugal. Many foreigners choose to take out private health insurance to access these services, which can offer shorter waiting times and a wider choice of doctors. Pharmacies are widely available throughout Porto and the rest of Portugal, and many medications that would require a prescription in other countries can be bought over the counter. Overall, while the public healthcare system in Portugal has its challenges, it provides a solid safety net for residents. As a foreigner, you should feel confident that you will be able to access the healthcare services you need while living in Porto," wrote one expat.

"Prescription medications are a fraction of the cost compared to the US. With dental insurance, dental work is also a fraction of the cost. Also, the quality of care is better here. All medical and dental healthcare quality is state of the art," said one expat.