Healthcare in Paraguay

Public healthcare in Paraguay is available to citizens, permanent residents, and some expats who have legal residency or work visas. It’s primarily delivered through the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare (MSPBS) and is intended to provide universal access to essential medical services. It’s generally free at the point of use, especially for basic consultations and emergency treatment, but patients might sometimes be asked to pay small fees for certain medications, lab tests, or specialist services. Registration is not typically required for emergency treatment, but expats who intend to use public services more regularly will likely need to register with a local health centre and present proof of residency or visa status.

The quality of public healthcare in Paraguay can vary widely depending on the region. Urban hospitals and clinics, particularly in Asunción and other major cities, tend to be better equipped and have more experienced medical staff. However, facilities in rural or remote areas often face challenges such as shortages of medical supplies, limited specialist care, and understaffing. Public hospitals can be crowded, which can result in long wait times for appointments, procedures, and emergency care.

For expats, one of the main limitations is usually the language barrier, as most medical staff only speak Spanish. This means that communication can be difficult if you don’t speak the language, and translators are rarely available in public facilities.

It’s also worth noting that the public system may not cover all healthcare needs, particularly for more advanced or ongoing treatments. As a result, many expats choose to supplement public care with private healthcare or international health insurance to ensure they can consistently access higher-quality services.

Private healthcare in Paraguay is a popular choice for expats and wealthier locals due to its higher standards of care, shorter wait times, and greater comfort. Private clinics and hospitals are generally well-equipped and staffed by highly trained professionals, some of whom will have studied or worked abroad. In urban areas, particularly in Asunción, it’s more common to find English-speaking doctors and administrative staff, which can make a significant difference for expats who aren’t yet fluent or confident in Spanish.

The cost of private healthcare in Paraguay is relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. A standard consultation with a private doctor can range from £20 to £50, while more specialised services and procedures can vary depending on the provider and how complex the treatment is. Hospital stays, surgeries, and diagnostic tests are also reasonably priced, although costs can add up without insurance.

Some well-known private healthcare providers in Paraguay include Sanatorio Migone, Hospital Universitario in Asunción, and the Centro Médico Bautista. These are known for offering a wide range of services, which includes general medicine, surgery, maternity care, and diagnostics, often with modern equipment and more personalised care.

While private healthcare is accessible on a pay-as-you-go basis, it is strongly recommended that expats have private health insurance. This not only helps cover higher-cost treatments but also provides peace of mind and access to a broader network of private facilities. Many international insurance policies are accepted, but expats should confirm coverage before receiving treatment.

Health insurance is not legally mandatory for expats living in Paraguay, but it is strongly recommended. Although the public healthcare system is free, it has some limitations in terms of quality, access, and language which can make private care a more practical option for many expats, especially those with ongoing medical needs or families to support.

Expats typically choose between local and international health insurance plans. Local policies can be more affordable and provide coverage within Paraguay, often including access to reputable private hospitals and clinics. However, they can sometimes have more limited benefits and exclusions. International plans, on the other hand, tend to be more comprehensive, typically offering wider geographic coverage, including treatment abroad and medical evacuation, which can be useful for those who travel frequently or want the option to return home for care.

Most health insurance plans cover general consultations, hospital stays, surgery, diagnostics, and emergency treatment. However, exclusions often include pre-existing conditions, dental and optical care, mental health services, and elective procedures, unless specifically included in the policy.

The cost of health insurance in Paraguay will vary depending on age, medical history, and level of coverage. Local policies can start from around £30 to £70 per month for basic cover, while international plans usually cost more but offer greater flexibility and support. Insurance can be purchased directly from local providers, through international brokers, or via specialist expat insurers like Expatriate Group, which offer tailored plans suited to life abroad.

Paraguay doesn’t have hospitals accredited by international bodies like the Joint Commission International (JCI), however, many private hospitals maintain high standards of care, particularly in the capital city of Asunción. These facilities are well-regarded among expats for their cleanliness, professionalism, and the quality of medical staff. The equipment in private hospitals is often modern, and many doctors have received training overseas, particularly in Argentina, Brazil, or Europe.

It’s common to find English-speaking medical staff in private hospitals, especially in major cities. However, not all staff will speak English fluently, and interpreters aren’t routinely provided. It’s advised for expats to seek out English-speaking doctors in advance or to bring a translator to their appointments if language could pose a barrier.

Asunción is home to many of Paraguay’s best hospitals, such as Sanatorio Migone, Centro Médico Bautista, and Hospital Universitario. These facilities offer a broad range of services and are known for their higher standards of care. Other large cities such as Ciudad del Este and Encarnación also have private hospitals, although they generally offer slightly fewer specialisations and amenities compared to the capital.

Most major hospitals in Paraguay, especially in the private sector, offer a wide array of services, including emergency care, surgery, maternity services, diagnostic imaging, and specialised treatments such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopaedics. Some also offer outpatient clinics and wellness programmes, particularly in urban areas.

In private hospitals, it is usually possible to walk in or book an appointment directly with a specialist – no referral is required. In public hospitals, patients typically need to register first and may be referred to a specialist after an initial consultation. For emergency care, both public and private hospitals will accept walk-in patients, although waiting times and the quality of service can differ significantly.

The costs for inpatient and outpatient care will vary depending on the hospital and treatment required. A private consultation can range from £20 to £50, while more complex diagnostics or procedures will be higher. An overnight stay in a private hospital can cost between £100 and £300, depending on the type of room and level of care. Public hospital care is often free or heavily subsidised, but services may be limited.

Private hospitals in Paraguay offer a range of accommodation options, from standard shared wards to private and VIP rooms with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and more personalised care. These facilities are generally clean and comfortable, especially in larger cities. Public hospitals tend to have more basic infrastructure, with fewer amenities and less privacy.

Many private hospitals in Paraguay accept international health insurance, but not all will bill insurers directly; it’s common to pay upfront and then seek reimbursement from your provider. It’s advised for expats to check with the hospital and their insurer in advance, and to carry proof of coverage when seeking treatment. Public hospitals do not usually require insurance, as most of the basic care is state-funded.

There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry into Paraguay, but there are a few that are recommended. This includes routine vaccinations such as MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, and polio, which should all be up to date. Hepatitis A is also strongly recommended, and Hepatitis B can also be advisable, especially for long-term visitors or those engaging in healthcare work.

Yellow fever vaccination won’t be required for entry into Paraguay if you’re arriving from most countries, but it is recommended for those who plan to travel to rural or jungle areas, particularly near the borders with Brazil and Bolivia. Rabies vaccination could also be considered for travellers who plan to spend extended periods in remote areas or work with animals. You should consult with a travel health specialist around 6-8 weeks before you travel to ensure you receive the appropriate vaccinations and any required boosters.

There are a few common health risks in Paraguay that expats should be aware of. This includes mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus, which are especially prevalent during the rainy season from November to April. Foodborne illnesses, such as bacterial infections and parasitic diseases, can also be a concern due to occasional issues with water quality and food hygiene, particularly when eating from street vendors or in rural areas.

You can reduce your exposure to mosquitoes by using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and sleeping under mosquito nets where necessary. It’s also advised to drink bottled or boiled water and avoid raw or undercooked foods to minimise the risk of foodborne illness. For those who will be spending extended time outdoors or in rural regions, it can be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional about antimalarial medication and other precautions.