Hello, Portugal enthusiasts! We recently had the pleasure of hosting an incredibly insightful webinar featuring the knowledgeable Fernando Mendes, an insurance broker with extensive experience helping expats in Portugal. If you’re considering a move to Portugal or already living there, this session was packed with golden nuggets of information about health insurance you won’t want to miss!
Let’s dive into the highlights, shall we?
- Public vs Private Healthcare: Fernando explained the coexistence of public and private healthcare systems in Portugal. While residents have access to the public system, many opt for private insurance for faster and more comprehensive care.
- Affordability Factor: Good news for your wallet! Fernando highlighted that private health insurance in Portugal is generally more affordable compared to countries like the US.
- Pre-existing Conditions: We got the lowdown on how pre-existing conditions are typically not covered by private insurance plans. However, Fernando mentioned companies like MGEN that may offer coverage with waiting periods.
- Waiting Periods Explained: Fernando clarified that there’s usually a 90-day waiting period for most coverages and a one-year waiting period for critical illnesses like cancer.
- Dental and Vision Care: Smile! Fernando outlined how dental and vision care are often optional add-ons to health insurance plans.
- Age Matters: We learned about age limits for comprehensive coverage, typically up to 64-65 years old. After this, options become limited or more expensive.
- Traveling Outside Portugal: Don’t forget travel insurance! Fernando advised that Portuguese health plans generally don’t cover international travel and mentioned that, because the Portuguese don’t travel as much as other countries, travel insurance plans are more limited than international offerings.
- Public Healthcare and Pre-existing Conditions: Fernando reassured us that the public healthcare system will cover pre-existing conditions, unlike most private insurers.
- Language No Barrier: Good news for non-Portuguese speakers! Fernando mentioned that private hospitals often have English-speaking staff.
- Prescription Medication Costs: Fernando shared that prescription medication in Portugal is generally much cheaper than in countries like the US.
- Mental Health Coverage: Fernando confirmed that mental health care is typically covered under private insurance plans.
- Timing is Everything: Throughout the webinar, Fernando gently reminded us of the importance of getting quotes and considering taking out insurance earlier rather than later to avoid potential issues with pre-existing conditions.
- Show Me the Money: We got a glimpse of potential costs. Fernando gave an example of a couple aged 64 paying around €530/month for a comprehensive plan.
What stood out was Fernando’s emphasis on how health insurance in Portugal can be tailored to individual needs and circumstances. It’s not just about getting a policy, but understanding how it applies to your specific situation.
Whether you’re a retiree looking for comprehensive coverage, a digital nomad seeking basic protection, or a family planning a fresh start, this webinar offered a treasure trove of information to help you navigate the Portuguese health insurance landscape.
Remember, every journey to Portugal is unique, and while the path to understanding health insurance might sometimes seem winding, the peace of mind is well worth it.