City, Brazil
Healthcare in Rio de Janeiro: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Rio de Janeiro
Private hospitals in Zona Sul are good but costly; insurance recommended. Public UPA and SUS hospitals are free but crowded.
Hospitals for foreigners in Rio de Janeiro
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hospital Copa Star | Private hospital in Copacabana; emergency room |
| Hospital Samaritano Botafogo | Private hospital in Zona Sul |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: R$300–700 ($57–134) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Brazil: Private hospitals in big cities are excellent but costly; the public SUS system treats everyone free, including visitors, with long waits. Travel insurance is strongly advised.
- Pharmacies: Drogasil, Droga Raia and Pague Menos are everywhere, many open 24 h; antibiotics need a prescription.
- Health spending: US$1,010 per person a year (2023); 2.4 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 190 · Ambulance 192 · Fire 193.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Brazil, 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 Rio de Janeiro for foreigners?
Hospital Copa Star: Private hospital in Copacabana; emergency room
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Rio de Janeiro?
About R$300–700 ($57–134) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Brazil?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Brazil expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Rio de Janeiro
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Going to Rio de Janeiro solo?
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Brazil
- MetrôRio
- Riogaleão Airport
- Santos Dumont Airport (Infraero)
- Visit.Rio
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