Women moving to Portugal will naturally want to have a good understanding of the country’s healthcare system. But, this can be challenging, especially if they face a language barrier. So, to make things easier, this guide explains everything you need to know about women’s healthcare in Portugal. Including how the system works and how you can prepare yourself before you move there. This guide will also point you towards useful resources and organisations that can help you take full advantage of your new country’s health services; and make them work in your favour.
What is women’s healthcare in Portugal like?
National healthcare is a universal system that provides coverage for all citizens and legal residents. The system has been praised as one of the best systems in Europe; with many people ranking it as the best.
The system is organised into two sections, each with their own roles:
- SNS – This is the public health service and it provides 90% of care. It’s funded by taxes and has no monthly fees.
- Private health – This covers the other 10% of care and has its own monthly fees. Citizens can choose between this or the SNS based on their needs.
What are your options as an expat?
It’s important to know your options as an expat and make a decision on the coverage that is best suited for you. With regards to health care in Portugal, you have three major options:
- Public healthcare (Serviço Nacional de Saúde)
- Private healthcare (private health insurance); and
- Private medical care (going abroad).
However, if for example, you have come from the UK and can prove that you have valid health care there; you will be entitled to the free healthcare offered in Portugal.
What should I do when I first arrive?
To make sure that you’re accessing the best healthcare possible, there are several things that you should do when you first arrive in Portugal. First, find a general practitioner (GP) and register with them. It will be much easier to get an appointment with your GP than it is to see a specialist so make this your priority.
Next, have a physical exam – this includes blood tests and any other examinations they may require.
Finally, take care of all your pre-existing medical conditions as soon as possible. This is important because it will determine what kind of health insurance plan you need and which doctors are covered by your insurance plan.
Where do I go when I get sick?
If you get sick and need medical attention urgently, the best place to go is a Serviço de Urgência Básica or SOS clinic. These clinics have walk-in hours 24/7, and provide basic medical care such as X-rays, blood tests, and stitches.
If you need more serious help and are eligible for it, the hospital is your next stop. You can find out if your insurance covers you at one of these hospitals by asking your national insurance company. It is best to do this before going into the hospital. If not covered by insurance, be prepared to pay up front.
If your case is not emergent, Portugal does offer a free phone call service that mirrors the UK’s and US’s 111. You can call this 24 hours a day and the number is 112.
Women’s Healthcare in Portugal
Healthcare for women is available at every level of the Portuguese healthcare system. The quality of services varies from one location to another, depending on the individual needs of the patient and the availability of resources. For example, when a woman has a gynaecological problem, she can visit a public hospital or an obstetrician-gynaecologist private clinic. Alternatively the GP that you assigned when you moves to Portugal will be able to direct you to the right doctor for what you need.
Do I need to buy any additional insurance?
The Portuguese National Health Service (SNS) is the main provider of healthcare services and covers most of your medical needs. This includes, but is not limited to, emergency care and treatment for minor injuries.
The SNS does not cover all medications, some dental treatments and eye exams. If you are planning on receiving these types of services while you’re living abroad, it may be worth investing in private insurance that will provide coverage.
Buying health insurance can be an option for you if you think that you will need private healthcare; or if you do not want to go through the public healthcare route for your medical needs.
Finding a Law Specialist
If you need legal advice or assistance, be sure to contact the experts at RHJ Law. We’re able to guide you through what you need to know before moving to Portugal.
Our legal team at RHJ Law assists non-EEA nationals to obtain residency in Portugal. Our English speaking team of lawyers, accountants and more specialise in helping entrepreneurs and families to; set up, manage and grow their life in Europe.
Working with our trusted partners; we can advise you on where to settle and how to go about purchasing property in Portugal.
We look forward to hearing from you soon!
