What should I know about the Portuguese Health System?

Understanding Portugal's healthcare system is vital for American expats considering a move. Portugal’s Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) operates under a universal healthcare model, distinct from the U.S. system, with universal coverage and significant accessibility. Here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Universal Healthcare Access

Portugal’s SNS provides medical services to all citizens and legal residents, including expats with valid residency permits. Unlike the U.S., healthcare in Portugal is mainly tax-funded and either low-cost or free for essential services.

• Eligibility: Portuguese citizens, EU citizens, and all legal residents, including Americans with residency permits, can access public healthcare services.

2. Healthcare Costs

Healthcare in Portugal is much more affordable than in the U.S. Essential services such as doctor visits and hospital care are free or require minimal co-payments.

• General Costs: Basic services are low-cost, with family doctor visits around €5-10 and hospital visits between €20-50, depending on the treatment.

• Medications: Portugal subsidizes prescription medications, reducing their costs significantly compared to U.S. prices. The exact amount paid depends on the medication and government subsidy level.

3. Quality of Care

Portugal’s healthcare is known for its quality, particularly in primary and preventive care. Qualified professionals staff public hospitals, and the system prioritizes comprehensive treatments.

• Public vs. Private: Many expats also opt for private insurance, which allows access to private hospitals with shorter wait times and more personalized services. Private healthcare is affordable compared to U.S. standards, and English-speaking doctors are familiar with private facilities.

4. Waiting Times and Specialist Access

One potential drawback of the SNS is longer wait times for non-urgent care and specialist appointments, which can be several weeks or months for non-emergency cases.

• Wait Times: Emergency care is generally prompt, but non-urgent care may have longer waits. Many residents choose private health insurance for faster access.

5. Family Doctor (Médico de Família)

Through the SNS, each resident is assigned a médico de família (family doctor). This doctor is your primary contact for healthcare needs, from regular check-ups to minor treatments. If necessary, this doctor can refer you to specialists.

• Registration: Upon registering with the SNS, you’ll be assigned a family doctor who guides your healthcare journey.

6. Emergency Care

Public hospitals offer emergency services to everyone, including tourists and expats. You can dial the European emergency number 112 if you need urgent care.

• Cost: Public emergency care is free or involves a small fee, making it highly accessible for all, including those without private insurance.

7. Private Health Insurance

Many expats supplement the public system with private health insurance to gain quicker access to specialists and receive care in private hospitals. This combined approach is common and affordable in Portugal.

• Cost of Private Insurance: Monthly costs typically range from €30-100 per person, depending on the coverage, which is low compared to the U.S.

To better understand all Private Healthcare Options in Portugal, Download our free guide!

8. Dental and Vision Care

The SNS does not cover dental and vision services. Expats often pay out-of-pocket or use private insurance for these needs, as dental care is generally affordable, but private insurance can help reduce costs further.

9. Pharmacies and Medications

Pharmacies (farmácias) are abundant and are the first stop for minor ailments. Many medications, including some requiring prescriptions in the U.S., are available over the counter.

• Pharmacy Hours: Pharmacies typically follow business hours, though most towns have a 24-hour pharmacy on rotation.

10. Registering for the Public Health System

To access Portugal’s SNS, you must complete a registration process:

• Obtain a NIF Number: This tax identification number is required for administrative processes, including healthcare.

• Register at a Health Center: With your residency permit and NIF, visit your local health center (Centro de Saúde) to receive your healthcare number and be assigned a family doctor.

Final Thoughts

For American expats, Portugal’s public healthcare offers a more affordable, accessible, and comprehensive alternative to the U.S. system. Although differences exist, such as wait times and limited dental and vision care coverage, the experience is generally favorable. Expats often praise the quality of care and the peace of mind of living in a country where healthcare is a fundamental right.

Combining public healthcare with private insurance can enhance access, ensuring timely treatment and personalized options. Living in Portugal means benefiting from a healthcare system that values accessibility and quality for all.

Moving to Portugal? Let us help you. Contact us!