Lisbon has a public and private healthcare system. The public healthcare system is called Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS) and is used by both Portuguese citizens and foreigners. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Lisbon for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Lisbon are typically crowded and wait times can be long, but the quality of care is generally good. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Portugal. Expats may also choose to use private hospitals, which are typically less crowded and have shorter wait times. Private hospitals in Lisbon are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they provide a higher quality of care.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Lisbon
- Hospital de Santa Maria – public hospital located in the north of Lisbon
- Hospital da Luz – private hospital located in the center of Lisbon
- Hospital da Cruz Vermelha Portuguesa – public hospital located in the center of Lisbon
- Hospital de São José – private hospital located in the center of Lisbon
- Hospital de Santa Cruz – public hospital located in the west of Lisbon
- Hospital de Dona Estefânia – public hospital located in the center of Lisbon
- Hospital de Santa Marta – private hospital located in the center of Lisbon
- Hospital de São Francisco Xavier – public hospital located in the east of Lisbon
- Hospital de Santa Marta – private hospital located in the center of Lisbon, specializing in orthopedics
Emergency Services in Lisbon
Lisbon has an ambulance service that can be called by dialing 112. Ambulances typically arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the time of day and the severity of the emergency.
Health Insurance Companies in Lisbon
The most popular private health insurers in Lisbon are Seguradoras Unidas, Fidelidade, and Lusitania. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
