Healthcare in Chile: A Complete Guide for Expats

Understanding Chile’s Healthcare System

Chile boasts one of the best healthcare systems in South America, ranking 33rd globally according to the World Health Organization. Expats in Chile can access high-quality medical services in both public (FONASA) and private (ISAPRE) healthcare systems. While public hospitals provide affordable care, private clinics offer faster service and more English-speaking doctors.

Public Healthcare in Chile: FONASA

FONASA (Fondo Nacional de Salud) is Chile’s government-run healthcare system, offering access to public hospitals, clinics, and some private medical centers.

Who Can Register for FONASA?

• Chilean citizens

• Foreign residents with a valid Chilean ID (RUT)

• Expats working in Chile with a local contract

How Much Does FONASA Cost?

• Workers and pensioners pay 7% of their taxable income.

• The contribution is capped at 4,921 UF.

• Emergency care is available to tourists, but fees must be paid upfront.

Limitations of FONASA

• Long waiting times for specialist care

• Overcrowded public hospitals

• Limited English-speaking doctors

For English-speaking doctors and faster care, expats can use private healthcare or telehealth services like Travel Doctor-ES (https://www.traveldoctores.com).

Private Healthcare in Chile: ISAPREs

Expats and high-income individuals often prefer private healthcare for better quality care, shorter wait times, and access to top medical facilities. Private healthcare is managed by ISAPREs (Instituciones de Salud Previsional), which are private health insurance companies.

Top ISAPRE Providers in Chile

• Banmédica

• Colmena Golden Cross

• Más Vida

• Vida Tres

• Cruz Blanca

• Consalud

• Ferrosalud (for mining industry workers)

How ISAPREs Work

• ISAPREs offer different plans based on income, age, and health history.

• Monthly premiums depend on coverage level and personal health status.

• Some ISAPREs are restricted to employees of specific companies.

Additional Coverage: CAEC (Catastrophic Illness Coverage)

• Covers high-cost hospitalizations and treatments.

• Must be used within Chile’s private healthcare system.

• Requires a deductible, but can cover 100% of costs beyond that.

Important: Choosing the right ISAPRE depends on your age, health, and coverage needs. It’s best to consult a professional rather than relying on recommendations from friends.

Emergency Care in Chile

• Public hospitals (Hospitales): Free or low-cost care but longer wait times.

• Private clinics (Clínicas): High-quality care with faster service.

• Emergency treatment for tourists: Available at all hospitals, but out-of-pocket payment is required.

For urgent online medical consultations, expats can use Travel Doctor-ES (https://www.traveldoctores.com).

Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Chile

Many doctors in private clinics speak English, especially those trained abroad. However, accessing English-speaking doctors can still be challenging.

Best Options for English-Speaking Medical Care

1. Private Clinics in Santiago – Clinica Alemana, Clinica Las Condes, Clinica Santa Maria

2. Telehealth Services – Travel Doctor-ES provides virtual consultations with English-speaking doctors.

• Book a telehealth consultation: https://www.traveldoctores.com

• Learn more about services: https://www.traveldoctoreu.com/what-we-treat

• Understand how it works: https://www.traveldoctoreu.com/how-it-works

For in-person consultations, expats can visit partner clinics in Europe and Latin America:

• Paris: American Medical Center Paris

• Budapest: Expat Medical Hungary

• Berlin: Arztbesuche

• Bucharest: Expat Medical Romania

• Krakow: Doctor Krakow

• Athens & Crete: Doctor Athens

FAQ: Healthcare in Chile for Expats

1. Can foreigners access Chile’s public healthcare system? Yes, but you must have a valid RUT (Chilean ID) and be registered with FONASA.

2. How much does private health insurance cost in Chile? ISAPRE plans vary widely, but monthly premiums typically range from $80 to $300 per person.

3. Is it easy to find English-speaking doctors in Chile? English-speaking doctors are more common in private clinics and telehealth services like Travel Doctor-ES.

4. Do I need travel insurance for healthcare in Chile? Yes, if you are a tourist or short-term expat, you should have travel insurance to cover medical costs.

5. What is the best way to get medical care as an expat in Chile?

• For basic primary care, use Travel Doctor-ES telehealth services.

• For serious medical needs, choose private clinics (Clínicas).

• If you are on a budget, register with FONASA for public healthcare.