Healthcare

Portugal has an extensive state health care system, but overcrowding and inconsistent standards of treatment may make private care a preferred option. Within the state health care system treatment is provided without charge to Portuguese citizens. An agreement with the UK entitles British passport-holders to free care in standard wards of State Hospitals. Private medical treatment tends to be costly, so private medical insurance is advisable.  24 hour emergency treatment is available at all major hospitals, but be aware that not all hospital staff will speak English.