Portugal

Portugal scores 72.5 out of 100 on the LifeIndexed Healthcare Quality Index in 2024, rated as "Good". Life expectancy is 81.3 years. The country runs a Universal (government-funded, near-universal coverage) and spends 9.50% of GDP on health services.

A typical GP / doctor visit in Portugal costs approximately $15 USD. Hospital accommodation costs around $600 USD per day. These are out-of-pocket costs; insured patients may pay significantly less.

Portugal has near-universal public health coverage — essentially 100% of the population is covered. Basic medical services are free or heavily subsidised for all residents. The government funds this through 9.50% of GDP in health spending.

Average private health insurance in Portugal costs approximately $70 USD per month. This provides access to private hospitals, shorter wait times and specialist care beyond what the public system offers.

Portugal operates a universal healthcare system funded primarily by the government, providing coverage to 100.0% of the population. This is typically financed through taxation or mandatory social insurance contributions.

Portugal has 5.5 doctors per 1,000 people. This is above the global average of approximately 1.8 per 1,000. The country also has 3.40 hospital beds per 1,000 people.

Life expectancy in Portugal is 81.3 years in 2024, compared to the Europe average of 81.4 years. Life expectancy is a key indicator of population health, nutrition, and the effectiveness of the healthcare system.

The infant mortality rate in Portugal is 3 deaths per 1,000 live births. This is a low rate, indicating strong maternal and newborn healthcare.

Portugal ranks 15 out of 20 Europe countries on the healthcare quality index. Its score of 72.5/100 is -2.4pp below the Europe average of 74.9/100. Life expectancy is -0.1 years versus the regional average.

Expats who obtain legal residency in Portugal generally gain access to the public healthcare system, though registration processes and contribution requirements vary. Many expats also take out international or local private health insurance for faster access and broader coverage.

Portugal is not typically considered a primary medical tourism destination. Patients seeking cost savings usually prefer regional alternatives. However, emergency and specialist care is available in major cities.

A hospital stay in Portugal costs approximately $600 USD per day for private or uninsured patients. Public system patients pay little or nothing for inpatient care. Hospital costs can vary significantly between public and private facilities.

Portugal's healthcare quality index has improved by 2.5 points from 2022 to 2026, rising from 70.0/100 to 72.5/100. Life expectancy also rose from 80.6 to 81.3 years over the same period.

Portugal has good hospital infrastructure in urban centres, with 3.40 beds per 1,000 people. Quality varies between public and private facilities and between urban and rural areas.