Adelaide, Australia



Health Care in Adelaide

By Betsy Burlingame

SJB Global
SJB Global

Summary: Health Care in Adelaide: Locate providers, hospitals, and medical centers to find the best health services available for expats and nomads.

Adelaide offers a comprehensive healthcare system that includes both public and private options. The city is home to numerous hospitals and clinics, providing high-quality care for residents, expats, and digital nomads alike.

Australia's Healthcare System

Australia's public healthcare system, known as Medicare, provides free or subsidized healthcare services to Australian citizens and permanent residents. While foreigners can access public hospitals in Adelaide, they may be required to pay for their treatment if they are not eligible for Medicare. Public hospitals in Adelaide are generally well-equipped and staffed by skilled professionals, making them a viable option for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. However, some expats and digital nomads may prefer to use private hospitals for their healthcare needs. Private hospitals in Adelaide offer a more personalized experience, with shorter waiting times and access to a wider range of services. Many people recommend using private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, as they often provide a higher level of care and comfort.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Adelaide

Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Adelaide include:

  • Royal Adelaide Hospital (public) - Located in the city center, this hospital offers a wide range of services, including emergency care and specialized treatments.
  • Calvary Adelaide Hospital (private) - A large private hospital in the city center, offering a comprehensive range of services and specialties.
  • St. Andrew's Hospital (private) - Located in the eastern suburbs, this hospital specializes in cardiac care and oncology.
  • Adelaide Clinic (private) - A mental health facility located in the western suburbs, offering inpatient and outpatient services.
In the event that specialized care is not available in Adelaide, expats may need to travel to larger cities such as Melbourne or Sydney for treatment.

Emergency Services in Adelaide

Ambulance services are available in Adelaide and can be accessed by calling the emergency number, 000. Ambulances are generally prompt in responding to calls, but delays may occur during peak traffic times or in remote areas.

Health Insurance Companies in Adelaide

Popular private health insurers in Adelaide include Bupa, Medibank, and HCF. These companies offer a range of coverage options, from basic hospital cover to comprehensive plans that include extras such as dental and optical care. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers, depending on their individual needs and preferences.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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