Healthcare in Portugal
Healthcare in Portugal is supported by both public and private systems.
Public healthcare is free for all residents, which includes general practitioner visits and hospital treatments. However, expats may not find the level of care up to standard; the Portuguese system is ranked as one of the lowest in Europe. Furthermore, the public system is subject to inconsistencies depending on location: rural areas having less reliable care available to them than urban ones.
Waiting lists can be long (especially for non-essential operations), technology can be lacking, and specialists are difficult to visit. Medicine is free for only chronic illnesses, although many other subscriptions are subsidised. Portuguese pharmacists can also provide a large array of medicine without a prescription.
Many Portuguese doctors speak English, and there are often translators available in the larger urban centres. The language barrier can still present a challenge in some rural areas.
Non-EU and EU expats with residency must obtain a National Health Care Service 'User Card' in order to take advantage of the free public healthcare system. This can be done at a local health centre with a passport and residency card; non-EU expats will also need a social security card.
Most expats and a percentage of Portugal's local 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 secure private health insurance to cover the costs. Private healthcare centres generally provide better and quicker access to treatments, as well as a larger choice of doctors and specialists.
