Health Insurance in Venezuela, America

Information expatriation

Capital City: Caracas
Total area: 912,050 km2
Population: 27,908,875 (2008)
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +58 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikipedia Venezuela

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:

·      Venezuela has a public healthcare system called the Venezuelan Institute of Social Security which aims to provide universal healthcare.

·      However, it has been significantly strained in recent years due to economic/political crises affecting operations and services.

·      It was primarily funded through taxes, employee/employer contributions but budget cuts have impacted resources.

·      Care was provided through national/regional hospitals, local health centers and some private physicians.

·      Primary care served as first point of contact and referrals were needed to access specialists.

·      Both inpatient and outpatient services were intended to be covered for citizens.

·      However, shortages of supplies, staff and proper infrastructure have compromised care quality and availability.

·      Private clinics remain options but costs have increased significantly.

·      Major health issues include communicable diseases, malnutrition and poor living conditions due to economic collapse.

·      Ongoing crisis has undermined a system that once provided exemplary healthcare access in Latin America. Continued declines are seen.

·      Most experts agree significant reforms will be needed to rebuild the system in future.

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

·      Purchase comprehensive international medical evacuation insurance before arrival, as public system is not reliably functioning.

·      Private medical care is available but very expensive due to hyperinflation. Ensure ability to pay costs upfront.

·      Have at least 3-6 month supply of any prescription medications. Supply chain issues may affect availability.

·      Bring backup supplies of chronic condition management items like glucose test strips, EpiPens etc.

·      Keep routine vaccinations up to date like hepatitis A/B which are prevalent risks in current sanitation conditions.

·      Only consume bottled/purified water and thoroughly cook foods to prevent gastrointestinal illness.

·      Access to care varies greatly between major urban areas vs. rural/remote regions. Plan accordingly.

·      Security risks have also increased substantially country-wide. Exercise extreme caution at all times.

·      Register location with home country embassy in case emergency evacuation is required.

·      Economic instability and shortages can impact mental health/stress levels. Seek local support networks.

·      Keep a low profile and monitor political/civil unrest advisories which could impact medical access/safety.