Health Care in Seattle

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

Seattle, Washington is home to a variety of healthcare options, both public and private. The public healthcare system in the United States is called Medicare, and it is available to all citizens and permanent residents. Foreigners are not eligible to use the public healthcare system in the United States. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Seattle for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. The public hospitals in Seattle are clean and modern, and offer a wide range of services. Private hospitals in Seattle are also available, and are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in Seattle are typically more expensive than public hospitals, but they offer a higher level of care and more specialized services.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Seattle

Expats in Seattle have access to a variety of hospitals and clinics. The most popular hospitals and clinics for expats in Seattle include: Harborview Medical Center (public), Swedish Medical Center (private), University of Washington Medical Center (public), and Seattle Children's Hospital (private). Harborview Medical Center is located in downtown Seattle and specializes in trauma and burn care. Swedish Medical Center is located in the First Hill neighborhood of Seattle and specializes in cancer care. University of Washington Medical Center is located in the University District of Seattle and specializes in heart care. Seattle Children's Hospital is located in the Laurelhurst neighborhood of Seattle and specializes in pediatric care.

Emergency Services in Seattle

Seattle has a variety of emergency services available. Ambulance services are available in Seattle, and can be called by dialing 911. Ambulance services typically arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the situation.

Health Insurance Companies in Seattle

The most popular private health insurers in Seattle are Premera Blue Cross, Regence Blue Shield, and Kaiser Permanente. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, or specialized expat health insurance providers.

About the Author

Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.