City in Magallanes, Chile
Healthcare in Punta Arenas: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Punta Arenas
Care is adequate for routine cases; serious ones are flown to Santiago. Insurance with evacuation is advised for Patagonia trips.
Hospitals for foreigners in Punta Arenas
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hospital Clínico de Magallanes | Main public hospital with an emergency unit |
| Clínica RedSalud Magallanes | Private clinic with emergency service, Avenida Bulnes |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: $30,000–60,000 ($31–61) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Chile: Private clinics in Santiago are among the region's best but expensive; public hospitals are stretched. Get travel insurance, especially for Patagonia and Atacama trips.
- Pharmacies: Cruz Verde, Salcobrand and Farmacias Ahumada are everywhere; many medicines need a prescription.
- Health spending: US$1,760 per person a year (2024); 3.3 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 133 · Ambulance 131 · Fire 132.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Chile, 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 Punta Arenas for foreigners?
Hospital Clínico de Magallanes: Main public hospital with an emergency unit
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Punta Arenas?
About $30,000–60,000 ($31–61) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Chile?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Chile expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Punta Arenas
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Chile
- Punta Arenas Airport (Aeropuertos Australes)
- Hospital Clínico de Magallanes
- Sernatur Chile
- Transbordadora Austral Broom
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 Spotted something out of date?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.