City in Wales, United Kingdom
Healthcare in Cardiff: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Cardiff
NHS emergency care is free in Wales for emergencies; call 999. Waits are long, and private GP care is limited.
Hospitals for foreigners in Cardiff
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| University Hospital of Wales | Major trauma center and main A&E |
| Llandough Hospital | Penarth; minor injuries, not a full A&E |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: £60–100 ($79–132) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In United Kingdom: Good NHS care but long A&E waits. Emergency A&E treatment is free; hospital admission is billed to most non-resident visitors at 150% of NHS cost. Carry insurance.
- Pharmacies: Boots and Superdrug are everywhere; pharmacists treat minor illnesses. Call NHS 111 for non-emergency medical advice.
- Health spending: US$5,860 per person a year (2024); 3.3 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 999 · Ambulance 999 · Fire 999 · All emergencies 999.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter United Kingdom, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Cardiff for foreigners?
University Hospital of Wales: Major trauma center and main A&E
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Cardiff?
About £60–100 ($79–132) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for United Kingdom?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in United Kingdom expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Cardiff
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: United Kingdom
- Visit Cardiff
- Transport for Wales
- Cardiff Airport
- Cardiff and Vale University Health Board
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.