City in Pennsylvania, United States
Healthcare in Philadelphia: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Philadelphia
Excellent hospitals at US prices. Urgent-care clinics are cheaper than ERs for minor issues; keep insurance details with you.
Hospitals for foreigners in Philadelphia
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Penn Medicine Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania | University City; academic medical center, Level I trauma |
| Thomas Jefferson University Hospital | Center City; large academic hospital with emergency care |
| Temple University Hospital | North Philadelphia; busy Level I trauma center |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: $150–300 ($150–300) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In United States: Excellent care at the world's highest prices: an uninsured ER visit can cost thousands of dollars and a hospital stay far more. Travel insurance with high medical cover is essential.
- Pharmacies: CVS and Walgreens are everywhere, some open 24 hours. Many medicines need a US prescription; urgent-care clinics handle minor issues.
- Health spending: US$13,473 per person a year (2023); 3.7 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter United States, 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 Philadelphia for foreigners?
Penn Medicine Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania: University City; academic medical center, Level I trauma
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Philadelphia?
About $150–300 ($150–300) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for United States?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in United States expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Philadelphia
Going to Philadelphia solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Philadelphia meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: United States
- SEPTA
- Philadelphia International Airport
- Visit Philadelphia
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.