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:

Wikipedia Madeira

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.