City in Washington, United States
Healthcare in Seattle: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Seattle
Excellent hospitals at US prices; uninsured ER visits cost thousands. Urgent-care chains handle minor problems for $150–250.
Hospitals for foreigners in Seattle
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Harborview Medical Center | Level I trauma centre near downtown |
| Swedish Medical Center (First Hill) | Large private hospital with full ER |
| Virginia Mason Medical Center | Downtown-area private hospital |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: $170–350 ($170–350) 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 Seattle for foreigners?
Harborview Medical Center: Level I trauma centre near downtown
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Seattle?
About $170–350 ($170–350) 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 Seattle
Going to Seattle solo?
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: United States
- Sound Transit (Link light rail)
- King County Metro
- Seattle–Tacoma International Airport
- Washington State Ferries
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.