Lisbonโs sunny streets, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine make it an incredible destination. But getting sick while traveling can be stressful.
Whether you need emergency care, a pharmacy, or an English-speaking doctor, this guide will help you navigate Lisbonโs healthcare system with ease.
Navigating Lisbonโs Healthcare System
Portugal offers high-quality healthcare services, but knowing how to access them is key.
- Public Healthcare: Affordable but with longer wait times. Tourists may need to pay upfront for non-urgent care.
- Private Clinics and Hospitals: Faster service, more English-speaking doctors, but higher costs.
Our Expert Tip: Use the Air Doctor app to find an English-speaking doctor quickly, whether for an in-person or online consultation.
Emergency Numbers in Lisbon
In case of a medical emergency, knowing the right numbers can save time:
- 112 โ Universal European emergency number (for ambulances, police, and fire services).
- 808 242 424 โ Saรบde 24, a medical advice hotline available in Portuguese.
Our Expert Tip: Ask your hotel staff for assistance in arranging emergency medical care.
Overcoming the Language Barrier in Lisbon
Portuguese is the official language, but here are some useful phrases:
- โIโm feeling unwell.โ โ Estou a sentir-me mal.
- โPlease, I need a doctor.โ โ Por favor, preciso de um mรฉdico.
Translation apps like Google Translate or the Air Doctor app can help with medical consultations.
Our Expert Tip: Write down your symptoms in English and translate them in advance for smoother communication.
Finding Pharmacies in Lisbon
Pharmacies (farmรกcias) in Lisbon are easy to find and marked by a green cross.
- Regular Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM โ 7 PM, some open on Saturdays.
- Emergency Pharmacies: Look for farmรกcias de serviรงo, which are open 24/7.
Our Expert Tip: If staying in areas like Baixa or Chiado, locate the nearest pharmacy upon arrival for convenience.
How to Stay Healthy in Lisbon
- Hydration: Lisbonโs tap water is safeโcarry a reusable water bottle.
- Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen and stay in shaded areas during peak heat.
- Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid undercooked seafood.
Our Expert Tip: Escape the heat by visiting air-conditioned museums like the National Tile Museum or the Gulbenkian Museum.
Healthcare Tips for Pregnant Travelers & Those with Medical Conditions
- Bring Medication: Keep prescriptions in their original packaging.
- Private Clinics: Offer specialized care and shorter wait times.
Our Expert Tip: Inform your airline of any medical conditions in advance for extra assistance during your flight.
Helpful Healthcare Apps for Your Lisbon Visit
- Air Doctor: Find English-speaking doctors and book online consultations.
- SNS24:ย Portugalโs official health app for medical advice.
Our Expert Tip: Download these apps before your trip to familiarize yourself with their features.
Why Travel Insurance is Crucial in Lisbon
Travel insurance ensures youโre covered for unexpected medical expenses.
- Check Your Coverage: Confirm that your policy includes private healthcare in Portugal.
- Keep Receipts: Essential for claiming reimbursements later.
Our Expert Tip: Contact your insurer before seeking treatment to ensure coverage at preferred clinics.
Embassies, Medical Centers & More in Lisbon
If you need assistance, your embassy can help with lost prescriptions or urgent care referrals. Major healthcare facilities include Hospital da Luz and CUF Descobertas Hospital.
Our Expert Tip: Bookmark your embassyโs website before traveling for easy access in an emergency.
What to Do If You Get Sick in Lisbon
- Visit a Pharmacy for minor health concerns.
- Book a Doctor via Air Doctor for quick consultations.
- Remember Emergency Numbers โ 112 for urgent medical needs.
- Contact Your Insurer to confirm your treatment is covered.
- Seek Embassy Assistance for lost prescriptions or serious emergencies.
With these tips, youโll be well-prepared to handle any health concerns in Lisbon, so you can focus on enjoying this vibrant city!
About the Air Doctor App
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical advice, get prescriptions, and receive expert medical guidance while youโre in Lisbon (and anywhere else you travel).
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Active in 85 countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including pediatricians
If youโre looking for reliable, accessible, and global medical assistance, Air Doctor is the perfect choice for you. Download the app before your next trip to ensure peace of mind and access to quality healthcare, wherever your travels take you.
