How are healthcare services in Philippines?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Philippines, they replied...
"Healthcare services in the Philippines are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and legal residents. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a lower standard than private healthcare. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats in the Philippines typically use private healthcare services, as they are more reliable and of a higher quality. However, some expats may choose to use the public healthcare system if they are unable to afford private healthcare," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Philippines.
"If you can afford it, get health insurance, but the rates are higher the older you are, and if your over 60 they go through the roof, that's if they will insure you. Be aware that many doctors here, who will charge you in excess of the regular charge as a "skin tax" as we are perceived to be able to afford it. Also hospitals will add on extra's not necessary, ie, they always insist on a drip, but it only contains saline solution. Extras like artificial limbs are difficult to have maintained here, its only in Manila or Cebu where there are facilities to have these repaired or replaced, but the quality and expertise is poorer, usually using 2nd hand appliances from abroad. In Manila there is a private house where European standards are maintained, but it is the most expensive you will encounter," commented one expat who made the move to Philippines.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Philippines?
- How do I find a place to live in Philippines?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Philippines?
- What is the average cost of housing in Philippines?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Philippines?
- What should I pack when moving to Philippines?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Philippines?
- Why do people move to Philippines?
- What are healthcare services like in Philippines?
- What are medical services in Philippines like?
- What are typical rents in Philippines?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
How are healthcare services in Philippines?
If you live in Philippines, newcomers to Philippines would love to hear your answer to this question:
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.