Capital city in District of Columbia, United States
Healthcare in Washington, D.C.: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Washington, D.C.
Excellent hospitals at US prices; an ER visit without insurance runs to thousands of dollars. Urgent-care clinics handle minor issues for $150–300.
Hospitals for foreigners in Washington, D.C.
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| George Washington University Hospital | Foggy Bottom; major emergency department |
| MedStar Georgetown University Hospital | Academic hospital with Level I trauma care |
| MedStar Washington Hospital Center | Largest private hospital in DC |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: $180–400 ($180–400) 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 Washington, D.C. for foreigners?
George Washington University Hospital: Foggy Bottom; major emergency department
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Washington, D.C.?
About $180–400 ($180–400) 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 Washington, D.C.
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Going to Washington, D.C. solo?
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: United States
- WMATA (Metrorail and Metrobus)
- Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
- Destination DC (tourism)
- DC Water
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.