Hospitals

Argentina’s health care system is composed of a public health care system and a private health care system.  Foreigners can access both the public and the private systems and hospitals. Heath care in Argentina is considered the best of all countries in Latin America.  In big cities or towns, clinics are very good and medical staff is well trained.

Public hospitals are open 24/7 and are free for all, including foreigners, but long waiting times should be expected.  

Foreigners can sign up for private health coverage in Argentina.  Waiting lines tend to be shorter in private health care systems in Argentina.  English speaking doctors are more likely in a private health care system, but not guaranteed.  

Dental Care and Vision 

Dental and orthodontic healthcare and vision care in Argentina is very good.  Dental and vision costs in Argentina are considerably cheaper that in the US or any European country.  

Pharmacies 

Pharmacies are easy to find in Argentina, and as a rule at least one is opened 24/7 in any particular area (referred to as “farmacia de turno” in Spanish).  Each pharmacy will advertise on its front window which nearby pharmacy is opened 24/7 during night hours.  It is possible to buy many types of medicine over the counter at pharmacies without a prescription.  The pharmacist can also advise on medication for several common illnesses, such as flu.

Health Insurance 

Foreigners can subscribe to a health insurance plan.  Private health insurance in Argentina is financed by voluntary insurance programs, and costs vary from provider to provider.  Depending on provider and services included, health care plans plans costs as low as $40 per month for basic plans to as high at $200 per month.  Private health care is generally localized.  The largest medical insurance companies in Argentina are Osde, Swiss Medical and Galeno.  The spectrum of health care insurance options is wide.   

Emergency Services

The medical emergency number is 107, it is a free number and can be dialed from any phone.  One can also dial 911, to report any accidents, fires, crime in progress or medical emergency.