How to find a General Practitioner, doctor, physician in Lisbon

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Portugal's healthcare system has been undergoing a major reform in recent years. This has resulted in an improved system without costing the tax payer extra money. If you’re planning to visit Portugal and you come from any other European Union member country you are entitled to free health care under the EU reciprocal health agreements.

If you are living in Portugal, you should be entitled to free basic health care under the Portuguese Public Health System - this includes free essential medicines, free GP appointments etc.  If you work in Portugal and therefore pay into the social security system in the country you automatically become entitled to free hospital treatment etc. While essential medicines are free of cost, you pay between 40% - 100% of the cost of non-essential medicines. Once you become resident in Portugal you will need to apply for your medical card which will enable you to seek medical assistance from a GP and to attend your local health centre. It is also very advisable to get a private medical insurance if you can afford it. This will ensure that you are covered on your trips back home and to other countries outside Portugal. It will also get you faster access to specialists in Portugal and also access to private hospitals and medical facilities as well.

For a list of reputed doctors in Lisbon, please click here.

At the surgery, with the doctor (GP)

If you are in Lisbon, you don't have to worry if you have problems speaking the local language. Most Portuguese doctors can speak English and there are also foreign doctors present, particularly in popular tourist destinations. However, you should be aware that you will seldom find English-speaking doctors in rural areas. Finding a public hospital in these rural locations can be somewhat of an issue and finding private healthcare facilities is even more challenging.

Update 7/09/2009


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Expatriate health insurance in Portugal

With so much to deal with before leaving your home country, (taxes, moving house, paperwork etc.) the careful planning of your expatriation to Lisbon is an essential step. As far as healthcare is concerned, your local social security scheme won’t be accompanying you to your host country and, once abroad, you might be surprised by the care system you find in Portugal So, before leaving, make sure you have appropriate cover!

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Cigna is one of the world's biggest international insurers with more than 30 years' experience in providing global health insurance across 200 countries and territories. They have access to more than 1.65 million hospitals, physicians, clinics and specialists worldwide.

Cigna Global's flexible plans are specifically designed for expats and globally mobile individuals who move to Portugal. All their plans can be tailored to your individual requirements in Portugal, always finding the right healthcare solution, whatever the situation and budget.

Getting a health insurance quote

Create your perfect plan with Cigna and combine the reassurance of comprehensive inpatient cover with the flexibility of optional extra benefits.

Click on the button to access the online tool and get a quote in 2 minutes.



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Find more definitions and general answers on expatriation issues in the Expat FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions).

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