City, Brazil
Healthcare in São Paulo: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in São Paulo
Among Latin America's best private care, at high prices; insurance strongly advised. Public SUS hospitals are free but crowded.
Hospitals for foreigners in São Paulo
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein | Top private hospital; international patient services |
| Hospital Sírio-Libanês | Top private hospital near Paulista |
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 São Paulo for foreigners?
Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein: Top private hospital; international patient services
How much does a doctor's visit cost in São Paulo?
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 São Paulo
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Brazil
- Metrô São Paulo
- SPTrans
- GRU Airport
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein
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 Spotted something out of date?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.