Recruitment Portugal

HEALTH CARE IN PORTUGAL

For a long time Portugal's health care system was far from one of the best in Europe, but since the health reform in 2002 it is much improved. Most treatments are free within the public health system, but secondary examinations such as x-rays and laboratory tests, dental treatments and visits to other health institutions (private clinics, etc.) have to be paid for.

Visitors in Portugal are also entitled to free in-patient treatments on presentation of the E111 form which is only valid during your stay in the country.

Those who want to become a resident in Portugal need to provide a residence permit and a social security card before being able to apply for a medical card from the local health centre. The medical card entitles you to free basic health care and hospital treatments.

Usually health insurance contributions are deducted automatically from your salary and paid to the national insurance scheme (Caixa). Besides the national insurance scheme there is also the opportunity of getting private medical insurance. With a private insurance company you are usually covered if you visit other countries plus you get access to private hospitals and medical facilities which provide better quality treatment.

You have to pay between 40 % and 100 % of the cost of medicine. Therefore you can get a wide range of medicines in pharmacies without prescription - unlike in most other countries in the EU where you will have to make an appointment at the doctor before getting medicine, even though you already know what your illness is.