Chile’s healthcare system is advanced and the standards of care in Santiago are high. The government has implemented a national healthcare system that covers its entire population, though expats tend to prefer the service at private healthcare clinics. Doctors are professional and hospitals tend to be run like businesses to keep the standard of treatment as high as possible.

Private clinics are relatively expensive, and expats should make sure they are covered by comprehensive medical insurance. Nevertheless, private healthcare in Chile still costs less than in the US and some European countries, a fact that attracts some people for medical tourism.

There are several 24-hour pharmacies in Santiago, most with English-speaking staff available. Expats can generally find an array of over-the-counter and non-prescription medication at pharmacies, although it is possible that the medication expats use in their home countries may not always be available.

Prescription medical supplies can be brought into the country, but this generally requires a certificate and prescription signed by a doctor, and for the medicine to be clearly labelled and in the original packaging where possible.

Several top private clinics are internationally recognised for their quality and have medical professionals who speak English, though their websites are mainly in Spanish. Some of Santiago's hospitals are listed below.

Hospitals in Santiago

Clinica Alemana

Website: www.clinicaalemana.cl
Address: Av Vitacura 5951

Clinica Las Condes

Website: www.clinicalascondes.cl
Address: Estoril 450, Las Condes

Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile

Website: www.redclinica.cl
Address: Dr. Carlos Lorca Tobar 999, Independencia

Military Hospital of Santiago

Website: www.hms.cl
Address: Alcalde Fernando Castillo Velasco 9100, La Reina