Health Insurance in Madeira (Portugal), Africa
Information expatriation
Capital City: Lisbon
Total area: 91,982 km2
Population: 10,623,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +351 XXX
Practical Information:
Health Product: Travel Insurance and Health insurance
Health Insurance information and Sanitary Risk: World Health Map
BLOG: Expat Health insurance Information
Here is a brief description of the healthcare system in the country:
· Madeira has a universal public healthcare system that is part of Portugal's National Health Service (SNS).
· As an autonomous region, the healthcare system is governed by the Madeira Regional Health Authority.
· It provides residents with access to public health centers, hospitals, emergency services free of charge.
· Services include preventive care, treatment, pharmacy and diagnostic support.
· Major hospitals in Funchal offer specialized care, emergency services, and advanced technology.
· Shortages can occur in specialized staff and equipment given its island geography.
· Private healthcare alternatives exist for those willing to pay out-of-pocket fees.
· Healthcare access in remote mountainous areas presents challenges.
· International standards are high overall due to Portugal's developed system.
· Life expectancy rates match mainland Portugal despite higher obesity and smoking rates.
· Like in Portugal, expats are advised to register for healthcare access and supplemental insurance.
· Periodic natural disasters require emergency response planning by residents.
Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:
· Apply for Portugal's National Health Service (SNS) coverage by registering as a resident.
· Consider private health insurance as a supplement for non-covered services or faster specialist access.
· Choose a local SNS medical clinic/doctor as your primary healthcare provider for routine visits.
· Bring adequate supply of prescription medications as some may not be available locally.
· Vaccinations should be up to date especially for hepatitis, typhoid and rabies.
· Monitor impacts of higher cost of living on access to nutrition and prevalence of obesity/diabetes.
· Severe weather events like landslides/flooding are risks - have an emergency plan in place.
· Limited after-hours and weekend care available so plan accordingly.
· Rural/mountain access may require transport - have a backup transportation arrangement.
· Register home address with your embassy for emergency contact or evacuation assistance.
· Learn some basic Portuguese medical terms to effectively communicate health needs.