Crown Relocations has released its “2024 Strategic Plan”Relocating in a Changing WorldThe survey found that most expats move overseas to enjoy a “better standard of living.” Many expats are looking for a place that offers high-quality healthcare to themselves and their family. International Living wanted to find the top 10 destinations that offer the best health care for expats by 2026.
“These countries don’t just offer cheap health care—they deliver peace of mind,” Jennifer Stevens, the executive editor of International Living, shared about their top five selections. “We are talking about countries that offer a doctor who speaks English and a clean modern facility for less money than you would pay to eat out at a restaurant in the States. This is a huge benefit for retirees.
This list isn’t for only those who are looking to relocate permanently overseas. The list also includes places that have already become popular for medical tourism. Stevens says these are “good value options for people who don’t want to relocate abroad but need medical care and are priced out in the north.”
International Living named after looking at the relevant details France The top destination for expats seeking health care.
Tuula RAMPONT, an International Living contributor, said in a recent statement, “Even 15 years after moving to France, I am still constantly amazed at the quality, affordability and accessibility of France’s health care system.” “That first visit cost €25 (about $29), and with my health care card, I was reimbursed 70 percent—so it only cost me €7, or about $10. The price of the visit has not changed in over a ten-year period.
Rampont said that one of the best features of the French health care system is the way it deals with chronic illness. “If you have diabetes, cancer, Parkinson’s disease, heart diseases, Parkinson’s or dementia, 100 percent of your treatment costs are covered,” she said. There are no restrictions on age or pre-existing medical conditions. Everyone is welcome.
The second place is a favorite among expats. PortugalThe public healthcare system in the country, which coexists alongside private options, has been praised.
“I was finally given a colonoscopy—denied to me in the U.S. despite being in my mid-fifties—and a DEXA scan that revealed severe osteoporosis,” expat Kimberly Anne wrote. “I was prescribed medication that costs €250 every six months without the national health care, but just €60 with it.” Anne described the quality of health care as “outstanding”. My first visits to the doctor, they ordered tests that were new to me and others that I’d requested in the U.S. for years. You can purchase private health care through local banks.
Panama and Spain are also top choices, as Cepee Tabibian, an expat, says they offer “transparent, transparent, and affordable” health care. Jess Ramesch is another expat who noted that Panama has “modern” hospitals and many doctors who speak English.
Costa Rica rounds out the top five, offering a dual system of public and private services, as well as beautiful beaches on its coast. We live on the coast, and the nearest hospital takes an hour to reach. Bekah bottone, an expat from Australia, shared that there are many 24-hour emergency clinics in the area.
Stevens continued, “It’s not only the prices that set these countries apart.” “It is how well foreigners can use the system.” These are places that can make retirees feel well-cared for.
The full ranking can be found at internationalliving.com.
