Why Portugal's healthcare system stands out

For many considering a move from the United States or United Kingdom to Portugal, healthcare is a key factor. Beyond lifestyle and cost of living, access to affordable, quality medical care can greatly impact long-term well-being.

Portugal’s healthcare model stands out for offering universal coverage, low costs, and a flexible public-private structure - making it especially appealing for migrants, retirees, and property buyers alike. The country has consistently ranked among the top destinations for quality healthcare, including first place in the 2024 Global Retirement Index’s healthcare category (International Living).

Universal, inclusive, and accessible

Portugal’s ‘Serviço Nacional de Saúde’ (SNS) was created in 1979 and offers universal coverage to all citizens and legal residents. Whether through public clinics or private options, individuals have access to healthcare that is both affordable and efficient.

The SNS covers a broad spectrum of services, including general medicine, specialist care, maternal health, oncology, surgery, and emergency services.

According to OECD ‘Health at a Glance: Europe 2024’ report, Portugal spends just a fraction of what countries like the U.S. do per capita, yet maintains a life expectancy of 82.3 years, nearly four years longer than in the U.S.

Proximity and prevention at the core

Portugal’s healthcare is anchored in preventive, community-level care, delivered through a nationwide network of Family Health Units (Unidades de Saúde Familiar). These clinics are embedded in local neighborhoods and work in tandem with regional public health departments to track health trends in real time.

As noted by Portugal’s National Association of Public Health Doctors, for STAT on December 2024, this integrated data-sharing model makes the system nimble and responsive, especially during public health challenges.

Portugal also embraces innovative, human-centered practices like “social prescribing”, where doctors go beyond medical needs to address social and emotional solutions.

This approach, now spreading across Europe, began in a Lisbon clinic that connected patients with community services for issues like loneliness, housing, or food insecurity, as described on ‘Spending less, living longer: What the U.S. can learn from Portugal’s innovative health system’ reportage. For patients unable to visit a clinic, home visits are part of routine care, ensuring that no one is left behind, particularly the elderly or those with mobility challenges.

A clear advantage for US and UK citizens

Compared to the high out-of-pocket costs in the U.S. and the long NHS wait times in the U.K., Portugal provides a cost-effective and more accessible healthcare experience.

Migrants and residents with legal status are entitled to public healthcare, while private insurance remains optional, affordable, and widely used to reduce wait times.

Portugal’s dual system gives residents the freedom to choose, combining public reliability with private convenience - without the financial strain often associated with healthcare in other countries.

Portugal vs. UKPortugal vs. United StatesHealthcare matters for relocation?

When evaluating a potential relocation, healthcare is more than a policy issue - it’s a core part of daily quality of life. Portugal offers a rare balance: universal access, emphasis on prevention, affordable private options, and a system that doesn’t leave anyone behind.

Whether you're retiring, working remotely, or investing in property, Portugal’s healthcare system offers reassurance and long-term value - a critical advantage when planning your next chapter abroad.