Expat Healthcare in the Philippines

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The healthcare system here in the Philippines has two main parts – public and private hospitals. Public hospitals, usually found in the provinces, provide free healthcare to all Filipino citizens under PhilHealth. It’s impressive to see that the Philippines was one of the first Asian countries to make a law for universal healthcare in 2019.

The law aims to ensure that all citizens receive essential healthcare services. However, with limited government funding, public hospitals often suffer from a lack of staff, outdated equipment, and outdated buildings. That’s why the quality of care may vary depending on the hospital you choose.

On the other hand, private hospitals offer a whole different level of healthcare. They have modern facilities, high-quality doctors, and top-of-the-line equipment. These hospitals often invest in advanced technology and staff training, ensuring better patient outcomes. While they may be more expensive than public hospitals, they offer a better quality of care. And let’s not forget that they are mostly located in the big cities of the Philippines, like Manila, Cebu City, and Davao. So if you’re looking for top-notch healthcare, living in or close to a big city is a good idea.

But healthcare in the Philippines isn’t just limited to hospitals. There are many clinics and medical centers that offer a wide range of medical services. These facilities are usually more affordable than hospitals, making them a good option for routine check-ups and minor medical issues.

Now, let’s talk about the cost of medical treatment. The average cost of a stay at a private hospital in the Philippines is around $30 per night. However, if you require intensive care, the cost can rise to $600 per night. Keep in mind that these figures do not include additional expenses like doctor fees, laboratory fees, medication, and other incidental costs. So, it’s essential to discuss health insurance options to ensure you’re covered in case of any medical emergencies.

Health insurance can vary significantly depending on the coverage you choose, and the cost of your plan depends on the type of insurance you select. There are two main types of insurance in the Philippines – international and local insurance. Most expats prefer international insurance because it offers more benefits and flexibility, especially if you need to travel to another country for medical treatment. But before we discuss private health insurance, it’s worth mentioning that PhilHealth is a commonly used cost-effective option. The government-run program provides basic health coverage for Filipino citizens and expats working in the country.

In conclusion, the healthcare system in the Philippines is a two-part system, with public and private hospitals catering to different healthcare needs. Expats have several hospitals, clinics, and medical centers to choose from, with several factors to consider, such as location, reputation, medical services offered, and cost.

While private hospitals offer a better quality of care and advanced medical services, they are more expensive than public hospitals. But with the availability of both international and local health insurance plans, expats can rest assured that their healthcare needs are covered. So, if you’re thinking about moving to the Philippines, healthcare should not be a concern, as the country has come a long way in improving its healthcare system to provide better care for its citizens and expats.


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Interested in Filipino Culture?  Check out this article on Tampo.


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