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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Venezuela | Expat Exchange
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Caracas, Venezuala

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Venezuela

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 15, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Venezuela is generally lower than in the United States. Medical facilities are often understaffed and lack the necessary resources to provide adequate care. Emergency services are limited and unreliable, and it can be difficult to call for an ambulance. In some cases, people have to rely on private transportation to get to a hospital.

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How are healthcare services Venezuela?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Venezuela, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Venezuela are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens. However, the quality of public healthcare is often inadequate due to a lack of resources and infrastructure. Foreign residents do not have access to the public healthcare system, but they can use private healthcare services. Expats in Venezuela typically use private healthcare services, as they are more reliable and offer better quality care," said one expat living in Venezuela.

What are medical services in Venezuela like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Venezuela, they replied:

"Medical services in Venezuela have been severely impacted by the country's economic crisis. Many hospitals lack basic medical supplies and equipment, and there is a shortage of qualified medical personnel. Additionally, the cost of medical care is often too expensive for many Venezuelans, making it difficult for them to access the care they need. Despite these challenges, the Venezuelan government has made efforts to improve access to healthcare, including providing free medical services to those in need," wrote an expat living in Venezuela.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Venezuela?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Venezuela are very expensive. The cost of medical care is high, and the quality of care is often poor. Many Venezuelans cannot afford health insurance, and those who can often find that the coverage is inadequate. The country's economic crisis has made it difficult for people to access the healthcare they need, and the situation is only getting worse," remarked one expat living in Venezuela.

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What are emergency services like in Venezuela?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Venezuela wrote:

"Emergency services in Venezuela are limited due to the country's economic crisis. Ambulances are available, but they are often in short supply and may not be able to reach remote areas. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the emergency number 112 or contact the local fire department," commented one expat living in Venezuela.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Caracas is the largest city in Venezuela and is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country. The city of Maracaibo is also known for its excellent selection of medical specialists, particularly in the areas of cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Valencia is another city in Venezuela that is known for its excellent selection of medical specialists, particularly in the areas of orthopedics, ophthalmology, and dermatology. Additionally, the city of Barquisimeto is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country, particularly in the areas of obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and general surgery," wrote an expat living in Venezuela.

Are common prescription medications available in Venezuela?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Venezuela. However, due to the country's economic crisis, the availability of these medications is limited and the prices are often very high. Additionally, many of the medications that are available are not of the same quality as those found in other countries. As a result, many Venezuelans are unable to access the medications they need," wrote one expat.

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Venezuela?

"The quality of medical facilities and medical care in Venezuela is generally poor. Many hospitals lack basic medical supplies and equipment, and the quality of care is often inadequate. Doctors and nurses are often underpaid and overworked, leading to a lack of motivation and a decrease in the quality of care. Additionally, the economic crisis in Venezuela has caused a shortage of medicines and medical supplies, making it difficult for people to access the care they need," remarked one expat in Venezuela.

As a foreigner living in Venezuela, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Venezuela, you will have access to public healthcare. However, the quality of care is not up to the standards of many other countries. The public healthcare system is severely underfunded and understaffed, and many hospitals lack basic medical supplies and equipment. Additionally, long wait times and overcrowding are common in public hospitals, making it difficult to receive timely care," remarked one expat living in Venezuela.

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Venezuela if they have access to public healthcare in Venezuela. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"The pandemic has had a devastating effect on the healthcare system in Venezuela. The country has been facing a severe shortage of medical supplies, including masks, gloves, and other protective equipment, as well as a lack of access to testing and treatment for those infected with the virus. This has led to a dramatic increase in the number of people dying from the virus, as well as a decrease in the quality of care available to those who are ill. Additionally, the economic crisis in the country has made it difficult for many people to access the healthcare they need, as medical costs have skyrocketed. As a result, many Venezuelans have been forced to rely on alternative forms of healthcare, such as traditional medicine, to treat their illnesses," commented one expat living in Venezuela.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Venezuela?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Venezuela about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Venezuela before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in Venezuela. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the current political and economic situation in the country, as it can affect the availability of medical supplies and services. Make sure to have a plan in place in case of an emergency. Lastly, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Venezuela, and to be prepared to adjust to them," said one expat in Venezuela.

Are healthcare services good in Venezuela?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Venezuela. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in Venezuela have been in decline for many years due to the country's economic crisis. Access to basic medical supplies and medications is limited, and many hospitals lack the necessary equipment and personnel to provide adequate care. In addition, the country's public health system is underfunded and understaffed, leading to long wait times and overcrowded facilities. As a result, many Venezuelans are unable to access the healthcare they need, and the quality of care is often substandard," wrote a person living in Venezuela.

"The private clinics in Venezuela are excellent," explained one expat living in Porlamar.

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.

Caracas, Venezuala

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