La Brava Beach in Punta del Este, Uruguay

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

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CitizenM
CitizenM
CitizenM
CitizenM

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

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Uruguay, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Uruguay is considered to be one of the best in Latin America, with a wide range of services available to citizens and foreigners alike. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and legal residents. The quality of care is generally good, with a focus on preventive care and access to specialists. The public healthcare system also provides access to medications at a reduced cost," explained one expat living in Uruguay.

"Like us, all expats are eligible to enroll in Uruguay's healthcare system and expats typically do enroll. It is as simple as enrolling and paying quarterly for your healthcare insurance. The costs range depending on if you are a landowner or city-dweller. We are land owners with a large family and we pay $600 a year. Your existing health conditions are not questioned prior to enrolling. There are many public hospitals. The quality of care from the public hospitals, suggested from close friends, was that it is a bit poor compared to private hospitals," said another in Paysandu, Uruguay.

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

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About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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