Health Care in Austin
Summary: Explore healthcare options for expatriates and digital nomads in Austin: uncover top-rated providers, hospitals, and medical facilities to meet your needs while living abroad in Austin.
Austin, Texas has a diverse healthcare system that includes both public and private hospitals and clinics. The city offers a range of medical services to cater to the needs of its residents, including expats and digital nomads.
United States's Healthcare System
The United States has a mixed healthcare system, with both public and private providers. The public healthcare system, known as Medicare and Medicaid, is primarily for US citizens and permanent residents. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are generally not eligible for these programs and must rely on private healthcare. Public hospitals in Austin are used by locals and can provide quality care for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. However, expats and digital nomads typically prefer private hospitals for their medical needs. Private hospitals in Austin are known for their high-quality care, modern facilities, and shorter wait times.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Austin
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Austin include:
- St. David's Medical Center (private) - a comprehensive medical center located in central Austin.
- Seton Medical Center Austin (private) - a large hospital offering a wide range of services, including specialized care for heart and vascular conditions.
- Austin Regional Clinic (private) - a network of clinics throughout the Austin area, providing primary and specialty care services.
- University Medical Center Brackenridge (public) - a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Texas, offering a range of medical services.
Emergency Services in Austin
Austin has ambulance services available for emergencies. In case of an emergency, dial 911 to request an ambulance. While response times can vary depending on the location and time of day, emergency services in Austin are generally efficient and reliable.
Health Insurance Companies in Austin
Popular private health insurance companies in Austin include Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, UnitedHealthcare, and Aetna. These companies offer a variety of plans and coverage options to suit different needs and budgets. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers that cater specifically to their unique needs while living abroad.
About the Author
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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First Published: Mar 16, 2023











