Capital city, Bolivia
Healthcare in La Paz: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in La Paz
Private clinics are decent and want payment upfront. Altitude affects everyone; see a doctor for severe headaches, confusion or breathlessness.
Hospitals for foreigners in La Paz
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Clínica del Sur | Private hospital in the southern zone; works with international insurers |
| Clínica Alemana | Private clinic near Sopocachi; take insurance details |
| Hospital Obrero | Large public hospital; cheaper but crowded |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: Bs150–300 ($12–25) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Bolivia: Private clinics in La Paz, Santa Cruz and Cochabamba work with international insurers and want payment upfront. Public hospitals are overstretched; remote areas have little emergency care.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies are everywhere and sell many drugs without prescription, but some medicines are scarce; bring a full supply.
- Health spending: US$255 per person a year (2023); 1.3 doctors per 1,000 people (2021), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 110 · Ambulance 118 · Fire 119.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Bolivia, 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 La Paz for foreigners?
Clínica del Sur: Private hospital in the southern zone; works with international insurers
How much does a doctor's visit cost in La Paz?
About Bs150–300 ($12–25) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Bolivia?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Bolivia expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about La Paz
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Bolivia
- Mi Teleférico
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bolivia
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 Spotted something out of date?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.