New York City has plenty of hospitals – some much better than others – but the sheer number ensures new arrivals will certainly be able to find top-notch healthcare in the cosmopolitan centre. In general, large teaching hospitals can be counted on to provide some of the best healthcare in New York City.

Due to the presence of so many facilities, some hospitals and clinics have become heavily specialised, with their areas of expertise ranging from paediatrics to joint disorders. Healthcare institutions are also quite competitive, which has created a standard that ensures patients benefit from modern facilities and the latest techniques.

Pharmacies are widely available in New York. They can easily be found in any mall, supermarket or main shopping street. Many pharmacies in New York are open 24/7. 

Private health insurance is necessary for the best healthcare in New York City's hospitals, and although hospitals will never legally deny emergency services if patients do not have health insurance, hefty fees often accompany treatment. That said, they can refuse long-term healthcare to patients without comprehensive health insurance. Some new arrivals may be fortunate enough to have employer-provided health insurance. Otherwise, we'd recommend that new arrivals moving to New York City get an adequate health insurance policy, allowing them access to the proper treatment if and when needed. 

Read more about Healthcare and Health Insurance for expats in the USA.