Health Insurance in Chile, America
Information expatriation

Capital City: Santiago
Total area: 756,096 km2
Population: 16,598,074 (2007)
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +56 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikipedia Chile
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:

·      Chile has a mixed public-private healthcare system that aims to provide universal coverage.

·      The public system is administered by the Ministry of Health and covers around 80% of the population. It is funded by payroll taxes, tax revenues and out-of-pocket payments.

·      Private health insurance plays a supplemental role, used by about 20% of the population. Plans are regulated by the government.

·      Public primary care is provided at locally run primary care centers. Referrals are required to see specialists.

·      Emergency and hospital care is provided at both public and privately-run hospitals nationwide.

·      The public system faces issues with long wait times, prompting many to purchase private plans or services.

·      Medicare provides coverage for elderly and disabled Chileans.

·      Overall, Chile spends about 8.2% of its GDP on healthcare and has outcomes comparable to developed countries.

·      Reforms aim to further strengthen the universal public model and address issues around access and affordability.

Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:

·      Insurance - Register with a public provider (FONASA) if eligible, or private insurer (ISAPRE) for coverage. Non-residents must have private insurance.

·      Prescription drugs - Bring adequate medications as some require a doctor's prescription in Chile. Costs may be high without coverage.

·      Vaccinations - Ensure routine immunizations are up-to-date. Consider additional vaccines like hepatitis A and typhoid.

·      Medical tourism - Advanced specialty services attract medical tourists, but policies should be understood first.

·      Rural access - Distance to major hospitals varies greatly between urban and remote areas. Consider proximity.

·      Natural disasters - Earthquakes are common. Learn first aid and emergency plans relevant to local risks.

·      Air quality - Santiago experiences pollution issues. Those with respiratory conditions should take precautions.

·      Water safety - Tap water is generally safe but initially visitors may experience some stomach issues.

·      Road safety - Drivers face risks from infrastructure, enforcement and drunk driving. Exercise caution.