How Do Expats Access Local Healthcare?

Moving abroad can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding how to access healthcare. Whether you’re a short-term expat, a globetrotting digital nomad, or you’re planning to move abroad permanently, it’s essential to know how to find medical services in your new country and ensure you’re covered for the services you need.

In this guide we’ll look at everything from how to find healthcare in your new country, to knowing whether it’s best to return home for basic treatment.

Understanding the local healthcare system

When moving abroad, one of the most important aspects of settling in is understanding the local healthcare system.

Healthcare provision varies widely across countries, and as an expat it’s essential to familiarise yourself with how things work in your new home country. This will not only ensure that you access the care you need, but can also help you navigate any pitfalls before they arise.

Public vs private healthcare

In most countries, healthcare is divided into public and private sectors, each with differences in cost, quality, and accessibility.

Public healthcare is often subsidised or free at the point of use, but it may come with longer waiting times and limited options for non-emergency treatments.
Private healthcare, on the other hand, offers faster access to specialists and more personalised care, albeit at a higher cost.

For expats, the availability and accessibility of private healthcare can be a deciding factor, especially if language barriers or concerns about the quality of public services exist.

Before making any decisions, it’s worth comparing both options to see which better suits your needs. Some expats find that private healthcare provides greater peace of mind, while others are content to rely on public services, particularly in countries known for their excellent national health systems.

Registration and residency requirements

In many countries, access to public healthcare requires registration. This process can vary significantly depending on your residency status. Expats holding temporary visas may not be entitled to the same healthcare benefits as residents, so it’s essential to clarify your eligibility early on.

Registering with a local doctor or healthcare provider might be a prerequisite to accessing care, ensuring you’re covered should any medical issues arise during your stay. Always check the local regulations to avoid unexpected gaps in your healthcare coverage.

Want to know how to access healthcare in a specific destination?

Explore our in-depth relocation guides to learn more about the local healthcare systems in countries from Portugal to Malaysia, and what specific registration and residency requirements to prepare for.

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Finding healthcare in your new country

As an expat living abroad, you need to make sure you have access to medical care. Whether for routine check-ups or unexpected treatment, knowing where to find healthcare is essential for your peace of mind.

Where do I start with finding healthcare?

The best way to ensure a smooth transition into a new healthcare system is to do your research well before you relocate.

Start by familiarising yourself with how healthcare works in your destination country – whether it’s predominantly public, private, or a mix of both. Government websites, healthcare guides, and expat communities are invaluable resources for gathering relevant information.

Leverage expat networks both online and in-person. Many expats are more than happy to share their experiences, offering insights into the best clinics or doctors in the area. Additionally, some governments and insurance providers offer directories and apps that can help you find healthcare providers near your new home. These resources can be especially useful if you face language barriers or are unfamiliar with local procedures.

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How to find your nearest doctor or hospital

Once you’re settled, finding your nearest doctor or hospital should be a priority. Online directories often allow you to search by location and specialty. Don’t overlook the value of local knowledge – your neighbours, colleagues, or fellow expats can be an excellent source of advice.

Be sure to make a note of your nearest doctor’s surgeries and hospitals in an address book, map, or by dropping a pin on your phone’s map app so you always have a handy reference.

For a more detailed guide on seeing a doctor abroad, visit our dedicated page on finding a doctor as an expat.

Can I just turn up at a medical centre?

In many countries, the healthcare system requires you to register with a general practitioner (GP) before you can access medical care. For non-emergency treatment, this is especially common and registration is often necessary to receive public healthcare.

Private facilities may offer more flexibility in terms of walk-ins, though appointments are usually recommended. Always check beforehand whether you need an appointment or referral to avoid disappointment.

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Emergency healthcare abroad

In the event of a medical emergency, being prepared and knowing how to access urgent care can make all the difference. As an expat, it’s vital to familiarise yourself with the local emergency procedures to ensure you can respond swiftly and effectively if the need arises.

What to do in the case of a medical emergency?

Every country has its own emergency services, so one of the first things to do when you arrive is to learn the local emergency numbers. It’s also worth noting that ambulance services may not always be free in certain countries, especially if you rely on private healthcare.

Accessing urgent care will vary depending on the healthcare system in your host country. In many places, hospitals will have an emergency department (A&E), but private clinics may also offer urgent care services for non-life-threatening issues.

Make sure you know which hospital or facilities to go to for different types of emergencies to save you from being turned away.

Will emergency services speak English?

Language barriers can complicate emergency situations, so learning basic phrases in the local language can be incredibly useful. If learning the language isn’t feasible, consider having a translation app on your phone or carrying a card with key medical phrases in the local language.

How to prepare for emergencies before moving abroad

Before moving abroad, create a healthcare plan to ensure you’re ready for any medical emergencies. Keep important medical records – such as vaccination history, prescriptions, and health conditions – easily accessible, ideally both digitally and in hard copy.

Research and note down the location of nearby hospitals, urgent care centres, and pharmacies as soon as you arrive. If you have any specific health concerns, look for facilities that specialise in relevant treatments. By taking these precautions, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any health emergencies while living abroad.

Do you have medical evacuation insurance?

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The role of GHIC and EHIC for expats

For UK and European expats relocating to other European Union (EU) countries, as well as in a few other participating nations, the GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) and EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) schemes provide a safety net when accessing healthcare.

These cards can ensure that you receive medical treatment in participating countries at a reduced cost – or sometimes for free – depending on the healthcare system in place. However, they are not designed for long-term stays, so as an expat it’s essential to understand the limits of their coverage.

What is GHIC/EHIC, and how does it work?

The GHIC and EHIC cards allow UK and European nationals to access healthcare in other EU countries, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland, under the same conditions as local residents. The cards provide cover for necessary medical treatment during temporary stays, such as holidays or short-term business trips.

UK nationals should note that The GHIC card is the post-Brexit replacement of EHIC. However, if your EHIC card has yet to expire, it will still be valid. Applying for a GHIC is a straightforward process that can be done online via the NHS website. The card covers emergency care, as well as treatment for chronic or pre-existing conditions that cannot wait until your return home.

Do GHIC/EHIC cards cover all treatments?

It’s important to recognise that the GHIC and EHIC cards do not cover all types of medical care. The cards are intended for emergency treatment during short trips only, and do not cover planned treatments, such as elective surgeries, access to prescriptions, long hospital stays, or ongoing medical care beyond essential services.

The exception is maternity services. Under Article Two of the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR), hospitals must provide maternity services to women who are experiencing a medical emergency. Therefore, do not be afraid to attend a hospital in Europe if you need urgent maternity services.

Expats should also be aware that while a GHIC or EHIC can significantly reduce the cost of medical care, some out-of-pocket expenses may still apply. You may be required to contribute towards the cost of treatments, depending on the healthcare system in the country you’re in.

Always check in advance to understand what fees, if any, you may have to pay when using your card abroad.

Female pediatrician talking to a little boy who is sitting on mother's lap at the clinic

International health insurance (IHI) vs local healthcare

When moving abroad, one of the key decisions you’ll face is whether to rely on local healthcare or opt for international health insurance. Both options have their advantages, but your choice will largely depend on your personal circumstances, the quality of healthcare in your host country, and your comfort with the local system.

Key differences you’ll notice with international health insurance

International health insurance provides a level of flexibility and peace of mind that many expats find invaluable. With IHI, you gain access to private healthcare, often bypassing the long waiting times associated with public healthcare systems. This can be particularly beneficial in countries where the public sector is under strain or lacks the services you’re used to in your home country.

IHI typically offers a broader range of cover, including specialist consultations, elective surgeries, and even access to hospitals in other countries. You can also access multilingual support and tailored cover that can extend to the rest of the family. Many international health insurance plans offer global cover, which means you’ll be protected whether you need care in your host country or while travelling around.

What happens if you don’t have international health insurance?

Relying solely on local healthcare can be a viable option, especially in countries with robust public health systems. However, expats who choose this route may face other challenges such as lengthy waiting lists, limited treatment options, and language barriers. Additionally, in some countries, non-residents or those without permanent status may not be eligible for full access to public services.

For many expats, especially those with ongoing medical needs, international health insurance provides the most stress-free option to accessing healthcare abroad.

What type of health insurance is right for you?

Explore the difference between global, local and travel insurance

Should you return home for basic treatment?

As you navigate the early stages of your new life in a foreign country, you may find yourself wondering whether it’s more straightforward for you to return home for medical care. This dilemma is not uncommon among expats, especially when adjusting to an unfamiliar healthcare system.

Is it easier to go home for basic healthcare treatment?

Returning to your home country for non-urgent treatments might seem like the simplest option. However, it’s important to consider the costs and logistics involved. Travel expenses, accommodation, and time away from your new home can quickly add up, making this choice less practical than it first appears.

Before making the decision to fly home, take time to compare the quality and convenience of healthcare in your new country versus your home country. While you may have established trust in your home healthcare providers, many countries boast excellent medical services that can meet your needs effectively without the additional travel costs. Familiarising yourself with local facilities and practitioners may reveal that high-quality care is readily available nearby.

International health insurance policy can help bridge the gap between your local healthcare system and your home country’s services, allowing you to focus on settling into your new environment while having the reassurance of quality healthcare at your fingertips.

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Choose international health insurance from William Russell

At William Russell, we’ve been insuring expats like you for over 30 years. Our international health insurance policies are tailor-made for expats and digital nomads living abroad, giving you access to the highest-quality medical care wherever you choose to live.

With our flexible policies and award-winning customer service, you can start your new life abroad with total peace of mind, knowing you’ll always have access to the healthcare you need.

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How Do Expats Access Local Healthcare?

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