Finding a general practitioner you can trust is a priority when managing your health in a new city.
This directory lists a variety of doctors in Buenos Aires who can serve as your primary care provider. Locate professionals for routine check-ups, health consultations, and referrals to specialists.
When you need medical care as an expat in Buenos Aires, understanding the local healthcare system is crucial.
The city offers both public and private healthcare options, but most expats choose private services for better quality, shorter wait times, and more English-speaking doctors.
Unlike many Western countries, Argentina’s healthcare system has three sectors: public, private, and social security. While public care is technically free for everyone (including tourists and expats), facilities are often overcrowded with long waiting periods for non-urgent care.
Private clinics and hospitals provide efficient, high-standard medical services at costs significantly lower than what you’d pay in North America or Europe.
In Buenos Aires, you don’t typically need referrals to see specialists – expats commonly book directly with cardiologists, dermatologists, or other specialists.
Many expats find the hospital system surprisingly efficient; rather than seeing a general practitioner first, you might be sent directly to the specialist’s waiting room.
While some doctors have trained abroad and speak English, don’t assume fluency – most medical professionals in public facilities speak only Spanish. Consider bringing a Spanish-speaking friend to appointments or using translation apps like Google Translate, which many physicians are familiar with.
When booking appointments, having your passport or Argentine ID (DNI) ready is essential. For emergencies, dial 107 for ambulance service or visit one of the major hospitals like Hospital Británico or Hospital Italiano, both known for catering to expats with bilingual staff.
Healthcare costs in Buenos Aires are generally affordable compared to US and European prices, but payment structures differ from what many expats are accustomed to. Private facilities typically require payment up front with reimbursement through your insurance provider later, so always carry a credit card.
While public healthcare is free at the point of service, most expats opt for private coverage. Local insurance plans from providers like OSDE, Swiss Medical, or Galeno offer comprehensive coverage at reasonable rates, while international health insurance provides broader protection, including medical evacuation.
If you choose to pay out-of-pocket, routine visits are surprisingly affordable, though complex procedures or specialist care will cost more.
To navigate Buenos Aires’ medical system effectively: learn key Spanish medical terms like ” médico general” (general practitioner), “especialista” (specialist), “consulta” (appointment), and “receta médica” (prescription).
Research hospitals popular with expats, such as Hospital Alemán (German Hospital), Hospital Británico, or Hospital Italiano, where English-speaking staff are more common. Always carry your medical history documents, as systems aren’t fully digitized.
Consider getting insurance even if you’re healthy – Argentina’s inflation means doctors frequently adjust fees. Remember that while public hospitals can be crowded, they’re perfectly adequate for emergencies, so don’t hesitate to seek care when needed.
