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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Porto, Portugal | Expat Exchange
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Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Porto, Portugal

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 08, 2024

Summary: Expats and global nomads in Porto, Portugal share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in Portugal, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.

Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors
Portugal Residency Advisors

How are healthcare services Porto?

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

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

What are medical services in Porto like?

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

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

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive 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)," mentioned one expat in Porto.

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What are emergency services like in Porto?

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

"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," commented one expat who moved to Porto.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

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

Are common prescription medications available 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," wrote one expat.

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

"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," commented one expat who moved to Porto.

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

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

"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," remarked one expat in Porto.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Porto?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Porto about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"Firstly, it's important to familiarize yourself with the Portuguese healthcare system. Portugal has a high standard of healthcare, with both public and private options available. Ensure you have the necessary health insurance coverage. If you are employed in Portugal, you will be covered by the national health service. However, if you are not, you may need to arrange private health insurance. Find a good obstetrician and hospital. Porto has several high-quality hospitals with maternity wards. It's advisable to visit a few and choose one where you feel comfortable and trust the staff. Learn some Portuguese or find a doctor who speaks your language. While many doctors in Portugal speak English, not all hospital staff may be fluent. Having some knowledge of the local language can be very helpful. Understand the maternity leave policies in Portugal. If you are working, you may be entitled to up to 120 or 150 days of maternity leave, depending on whether you choose to take partial or full leave. Register your baby's birth within 20 days at the local civil registry office. If you or your partner are not Portuguese, you may need to also register the birth with your home country's embassy or consulate. Consider hiring a doula or midwife for additional support during pregnancy and childbirth. They can provide valuable advice and assistance, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the Portuguese healthcare system. Prepare for the cost of having a baby. While healthcare in Portugal is generally affordable, there may be additional costs such as prenatal classes, baby items, and potentially, private healthcare fees. Finally, try to connect with other expat parents in Porto. They can provide advice, support, and friendship during this exciting time in your life," said one person in Porto.

Are healthcare services good in Porto?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Porto. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in Porto are of high quality and are easily accessible to both residents and visitors. The city boasts numerous public and private hospitals, clinics, and health centers that offer a wide range of medical services. Public healthcare is funded by the government and is available to all residents, while private healthcare is also an option for those who prefer it or need specialized care. The doctors and medical staff in Porto are highly trained and many of them speak English, making it easier for tourists and expats to communicate their health concerns. The city's hospitals are equipped with modern medical technology and follow international standards of care. Pharmacies are also widespread throughout the city, providing easy access to prescription and over-the-counter medications. In addition to traditional Western medicine, alternative and holistic healthcare services such as acupuncture and homeopathy are also available in Porto. Emergency services in Porto are efficient and reliable, with ambulances, emergency rooms, and urgent care centers readily available to handle any immediate health concerns. Despite the high quality of healthcare services in Porto, it's important for visitors to have travel insurance to cover any potential medical costs. Overall, Porto offers a comprehensive and efficient healthcare system that caters to the needs of its diverse population," remarked one expat in Porto.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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