City in Scotland, United Kingdom
Healthcare in Edinburgh: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Edinburgh
NHS A&E is free in emergencies. Private GPs exist but are costly; NHS 24 on 111 gives advice.
Hospitals for foreigners in Edinburgh
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh | Main A&E; Little France site |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: £80–180 ($106–238) 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 Edinburgh for foreigners?
Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh: Main A&E; Little France site
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Edinburgh?
About £80–180 ($106–238) 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 Edinburgh
Going to Edinburgh solo?
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: United Kingdom
- Lothian Buses
- Edinburgh Trams
- Edinburgh Airport
- VisitScotland
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 Spotted something out of date?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.