Healthcare in Portugal

Portugal has both private and public healthcare systems. Public healthcare is free for all residents, which includes general practitioner visits and hospital treatments. However healthcare is not at the top standards of the US and parts of Europe, particularly in rural areas. Waiting lists can be long (especially for non-essential operations), technology can be lacking and specialists are difficult to visit. Medicine is free for chronic illnesses, although many other subscriptions are subsidised. EU members receive free healthcare within Portugal because of EU reciprocal healthcare agreements. Other expats with residency should receive their medical card enabling free healthcare.

Most expats, and 10 percent of Portugal's population, prefer private healthcare. This is required for non-EU expats working in Portugal who don't contribute to social security. Private healthcare in Portugal can be expensive and it is important to hire private health insurance to cover the costs. Better and quicker access to treatments, doctors and specialists are available at private healthcare centres.