Portugal is a country located in southwestern Europe, bordered by Spain to the north and east and by the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south. It has a population of approximately 10.3 million people. In case of emergencies, it is important to know the right phone number to call and where to go for medical treatment.
Emergency medical assistance in Portugal
The emergency medical assistance number in Portugal is 112. This number can be dialed from any phone, including mobile phones, without the need for an area code. It is a free service and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
In case of a mental health emergency, there are several options available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can be reached at 808 200 204, and the SOS Voz Amiga helpline can be reached at 213 544 545. Both of these helplines are free and available 24/7.
Where to go for emergency medical treatment in Portugal
Emergency medical treatment in Portugal can be obtained at any hospital emergency department (Serviço de Urgência Hospitalar). These departments are located in every hospital throughout the country, both public and private. In addition, there are several hospitals that are specifically designated as “emergency hospitals” (Hospitais de Referência), which have specialized facilities and staff for dealing with emergencies.
The emergency departments of hospitals are open 24/7 and can provide treatment for a wide range of medical emergencies, including heart attacks, strokes, severe injuries, and other life-threatening conditions. It is important to note that the emergency departments of private hospitals may charge higher fees than those of public hospitals.
For non-life-threatening emergencies, it is possible to visit a health center (Centro de Saúde) or a private clinic. These facilities can provide medical assistance for illnesses and injuries that are not immediately life-threatening.
Cost of emergency treatment in Portugal
Emergency medical treatment in Portugal is provided free of charge in public hospitals and health centers. However, patients may be required to pay for certain services, such as X-rays, laboratory tests, and medications.
Patients who are treated in private hospitals or clinics will generally be charged higher fees for emergency treatment. It is important to note that private health insurance may cover the cost of emergency treatment in private hospitals, depending on the policy.
Insurance for emergencies in Portugal
While it is not required to have health insurance to receive emergency medical treatment in Portugal, it is highly recommended. Health insurance can help to cover the cost of emergency treatment, as well as provide coverage for other medical services.
There are both public and private health insurance options available in Portugal. The public health insurance system is known as Serviço Nacional de Saúde (SNS), which provides free or low-cost healthcare to Portuguese citizens and legal residents. Private health insurance is also available from several insurance companies, which offer a range of plans with different levels of coverage and cost.
In case of emergencies in Portugal, it is important to know the emergency medical assistance number (112) and where to go for emergency medical treatment. While emergency treatment is provided free of charge in public hospitals and health centers, patients may be required to pay for certain services. Health insurance can help to cover the cost of emergency treatment, and both public and private health insurance options are available in Portugal.