Healthcare & Health Insurance in Latvia
Summary: Digital Nomads in Latvia share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in Latvia, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.
What are healthcare services like in Latvia?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Latvia, they replied:
"Latvia offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. The public healthcare system in Latvia is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and legal residents. The quality of public healthcare in Latvia is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained medical staff. Foreign residents in Latvia are also eligible to use the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for certain services. Expats in Latvia can use the public healthcare system by registering with the local authorities and obtaining a personal identification number. This will allow them to access the same services as Latvian citizens, including free or discounted medical care," explained one expat living in Latvia.
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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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What is the quality of medical care in Latvia like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Latvia, they replied:
"Latvia has a well-developed healthcare system, providing a wide range of medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that offer a variety of medical services, including primary care, specialist care, and emergency services. Latvia also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for specific conditions, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health. In addition, Latvia has a number of private medical facilities that offer a range of services, including cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and alternative medicine," commented a person living in Latvia.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Latvia?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Latvia can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is free for Latvian citizens, but private healthcare can be costly. Health insurance is also available, but it is not mandatory and can be expensive. Private health insurance plans can provide more comprehensive coverage, but they can also be costly," explained one person living in Latvia.
What are emergency services like in Latvia?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Latvia wrote:
"Emergency services in Latvia are provided by the State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD). In the event of an emergency, the public can call the emergency number 112 to request an ambulance. The call center operator will ask for the caller's location and the nature of the emergency, and will then dispatch an ambulance to the scene. Ambulances are staffed with paramedics and are equipped with the necessary medical equipment to provide emergency medical care," said one foreigner in Latvia.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Latvia has a wide selection of medical specialists throughout the country, with some of the best concentrations located in the capital city of Riga and the surrounding areas. The city of Riga is home to a number of highly-regarded medical institutions, such as the University of Latvia, Riga Stradins University, and the Riga East Clinical University Hospital, which offer a wide range of medical services and specialists. Additionally, the cities of Jelgava, Liepaja, and Daugavpils also have a number of excellent medical facilities and specialists," explained one expat living in Latvia.
Are common prescription medications available in Latvia?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Latvia. Most pharmacies in Latvia carry a wide range of prescription medications, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and cardiovascular medications. Many pharmacies also offer generic versions of popular medications, which can be more affordable than the brand-name versions. Additionally, some pharmacies offer online ordering and delivery services, making it easier for people to access the medications they need," remarked one member in Latvia.
Connect
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Latvia?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Latvia are generally of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. Latvia has a number of modern hospitals and clinics, staffed by highly trained and experienced medical professionals. The country also has a number of specialized medical centers, offering specialized treatments and services. In addition, Latvia has a number of private medical facilities, offering a range of services and treatments. Overall, Latvia provides quality medical care and facilities for its citizens," said one foreigner in Latvia.
As a foreigner living in Latvia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Latvia, you will have access to public healthcare. Latvia has a universal healthcare system, which means that all citizens and legal residents are entitled to free healthcare services. The quality of healthcare in Latvia is generally good, with a wide range of services available. The country has a well-developed network of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers, and the majority of healthcare professionals are highly qualified," explained one person living in Latvia.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Latvia if they have access to public healthcare in Latvia. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Latvia. The government has implemented a number of measures to protect the public, including the introduction of a national contact tracing system, the closure of schools and universities, and the introduction of restrictions on public gatherings. The healthcare system has also been affected, with hospitals and clinics having to adjust their services to meet the demands of the pandemic. In addition, the government has provided additional funding to the healthcare system to ensure that it can cope with the increased demand. Overall, the healthcare system in Latvia has been able to respond to the pandemic in a timely and effective manner," explained one expat living in Latvia.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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SJB Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model.
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Digital Nomads in Latvia offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Latvia.
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