Healthcare in Buenos Aires

The healthcare system in Buenos Aires offers expats great room to choose the approach that will be most convenient for them.

Based on the national system, health services are provided through three main routes: the public sector, which supplies free clinical care for hospital inpatients and outpatients; the mutual or social plans administered by trade unions; and the private sector where patients meet the total cost of medical care. In general, the government strives to offer medical access to all residents and expats in Buenos Aires. 

As an expatriate, one can make use of both private hospitals, which are generally well equipped, and public hospitals which offer primary healthcare with competent and adequately trained staff. Most hospitals and medical care centers in Buenos Aires boast of highly competent medical staff comprised of nurses, doctors, surgeons, dentists, aides, and caregivers who are all well trained, with many of them acquiring their medical education and expertise from abroad. Some of the best institutions that have been particularly accommodating to expats in the city are the German Hospital, Fernandez Hospital, Clinica Suizo Argentina, Clinica Bazterrica, Rivadavia Hospital, French Hospital, Clinica de la Trinidad and Italian Hospital, and Asistencia Medica for emergency cases. In some parts of the city, the hospitals may not have the most modern equipment, but what is available is always suitable for emergency situations. 

While medical facilities are generally good, treatment can be expensive. Asthma, sinusitis, and bronchial problems may also be aggravated by the polluted atmosphere in some places. Anyone travelling to the city with specific medical conditions is advised to bring a sufficient quantity of medical supplies and medicines. Dengue fever is common in the area and may spread anytime throughout the year. There is no vaccine for this type of illness so expats are advised to wear suitable clothing and have constant supply of mosquito repellants. When symptoms begin to show up, it is always best to see a doctor as soon as possible.  

When coming into the country, expats are also advised to have the vaccine for yellow fever and consult a physician for examination. Those with health problems seeking medical treatment in Argentina can apply for one-year multiple entry medical visas at the Department of Immigration. Minors and disabled individuals who, because of their health conditions, cannot travel or reside alone need to apply for a separate visa for family members or caregivers who will be traveling with them.  

Moving to a massive, fast moving city like Buenos Aires can be overwhelming no matter where one is from. However, the experienced professionals at many private insurance companies can help one find the right coverage for individuals, families and groups. If one's insurance policy does not cover any treatment, one will either have to pay before leaving the hospital or within a month of checkout Most of the larger private hospitals and health care groups offer more flexible payments, discounts and easier access to medical services. Some institutions honor international health insurance but since many do not, it is recommended for expats to secure local coverage policies when they arrive in the city. 

In Buenos Aires, the hotlines for medical emergencies are 107 and 911 for all types of emergencies.