I. Medical Conditions
Portugal has relatively good medical conditions; however, due to a high degree of population aging, there is a significant imbalance between supply and demand in public hospitals, often resulting in long waiting times.
II. Medical Insurance
Public hospitals and health centers in Portugal provide free medical services to Portuguese citizens and foreign nationals who have obtained legal residency or legal work permits (based on the principle of reciprocity). Foreign nationals visiting Portugal temporarily may use the services of public hospitals, but they are not entitled to free medical care.
III. Common Diseases and Treatment
The sanitary conditions in Portugal are good, and there are no widespread infectious diseases.
IV. Major Hospitals and Pharmacies
Hospitals in Portugal are divided into public and private sectors. Public hospitals are large, well-equipped, and possess strong technical capabilities, but they serve a large number of patients and require more time for treatment. Private hospitals offer shorter waiting times. Community clinics are available in every neighborhood, but they only provide basic medical services to the registered population within that community.
Pharmacies can be found everywhere and are generally marked with a green cross sign outside. Medicines must be purchased at pharmacies, and prescription drugs require a doctor's prescription. In some major cities, certain pharmacies are open 24 hours a day. Medical and pharmaceutical costs are moderate.
V. Special Tips
In Portugal, medical expenses can be quite expensive without health insurance or social security. It is recommended that Chinese citizens traveling to Portugal purchase medical insurance for themselves before their trip.
