Healthcare Guide for Expats and Tourists in Portugal

1. National Regulations

• Healthcare System: Portugal has a mixed healthcare system, combining public (SNS - Serviço Nacional de Saúde) and private healthcare services.
• Eligibility: EU citizens can access public healthcare with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Non-EU citizens may need private insurance or pay out-of-pocket.

2. Access to Healthcare

• Public Healthcare:
  • Available to residents and those with valid health insurance.
  • Services include general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and emergency care.
  • Registration with a local health center (Centro de Saúde) is required for access.
• Private Healthcare:
  • Offers shorter wait times and more personalized care.
  • Available to anyone, but costs are generally higher.
  • Many private hospitals and clinics accept international health insurance.

3. General Costs

• Public Healthcare:
  • Minimal fees for consultations (around €5-€20).
  • Hospital stays and surgeries may incur additional costs, but are generally subsidized.
• Private Healthcare:
  • Initial consultations range from €50 to €150.
  • Costs for procedures vary widely; insurance can help mitigate these expenses.

4. Standard Procedures

• Registration:
  • Expats should register at a local health center to obtain a health number (Número de Utente).
• Appointments:
  • Public healthcare appointments can be made in person or by phone.
  • Private healthcare often allows online booking.

5. Insurance Requirements

• Tourists:
  • Strongly advised to have travel insurance covering health emergencies.
• Expats:
  • Must have health insurance to access public healthcare.
  • Private health insurance is recommended for quicker access to services.

6. Emergency Services

• Emergency Number: Dial 112 for medical emergencies.
• Emergency Rooms: Available in public hospitals; wait times can vary.
• Ambulance Services: Public ambulances are available, but private services can be faster.

7. Country-Specific Considerations

• Language: While many healthcare professionals speak English, language barriers may exist. It’s advisable to have a translator or use translation apps if necessary.
• Cultural Nuances:
  • Punctuality is valued; arrive on time for appointments.
  • Bring identification and any relevant medical records to appointments.
• Pharmacies:
  • Pharmacies (farmácias) are widely available and can provide over-the-counter medications and advice.
  • Some pharmacies offer health services like blood pressure checks.

Conclusion

Expats and tourists in Portugal should ensure they have appropriate health insurance and familiarize themselves with both public and private healthcare options. Understanding the system will facilitate access to necessary medical services and enhance the overall experience in Portugal.