Health Care in Iquitos

The system in Iquitos, consists of both public and private facilities. While the public system is accessible to foreigners, many expats and digital nomads prefer to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries.

Peru's Healthcare System

Peru's public healthcare system, known as EsSalud, is available to both locals and foreigners. However, public hospitals in Iquitos are often crowded and may lack the necessary resources for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. As a result, many people recommend using private hospitals for such cases. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Peru, but they often choose private hospitals for better quality care and shorter waiting times. Private hospitals in Iquitos typically offer a higher standard of care and more modern facilities compared to public hospitals.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Iquitos

Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Iquitos include:

• Clínica Ana Stahl (private) - located in the city center, offers a range of medical services
• Hospital Regional de Loreto (public) - a large public hospital in Iquitos
• Clínica Tramazon Doctor (private) - specializes in tropical medicine and infectious diseases

In case of emergencies or specialized medical care, expats in Iquitos may need to travel to Lima, which is approximately 1.5 hours away by plane.

Emergency Services in Iquitos

There are ambulance services in Iquitos, but they may not be as reliable or prompt as those in more developed countries. To call for an ambulance, dial 106. However, it is important to note that there may be delays in response times, especially in remote areas.

Health Insurance Companies in Iquitos

Some popular private health insurers in Iquitos include Rimac Seguros, Pacífico Seguros, and Mapfre. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans for locals and foreigners. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers, depending on their needs and preferences.