Chile - Health

Chile has both a public and a private healthcare system with standards of healthcare some of the best in South Americ. Visitors can expect quality and affordable medical treatment from both systems.

For medical emergencies, private services may deliver more modern equipment and a faster response. Major hospitals accept credit cards. Santiago has two private hospitals accredited by The American Hospital Association: Clinica Alemana and Clinica Las Condes.

It is mandatory to have health insurance with a minimum Covid-19 coverage of USD 30,000 when entering Chile.

Vaccine-Preventable Diseases:

Apart from routine vaccinations, the CDC recommends vaccinations for Hepatitis A & B while Typhoid vaccine is recommended if visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Chile is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. Rabies vaccination before travel are recommended for those working directly with wildlife.

Food and Water Concerns:

Tap water is generally safe to drink, but visitors are advised to take caution if visiting remote or rural areas.

Other Diseases:

Chagas Disease, or commonly known as American Trypanosomiasis, is a potentially life-threatening disease caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. It is most commonly transmitted by biting insects known as 'kissing bugs' that are infected with the parasite.

There is no vaccine or medicine to prevent this disease.

For more details, visit the CDC website for information and prevention.

Chile had reported cases of Hantavirus and Tuberculosis.

Prescription Drugs:

When bringing prescription medicines in large quantities, it is best to label the medication and carry a signed doctor's certificate and prescription. It is also recommended to note down the generic names of the prescription medication as brand names tend to vary from country to country.

Emergency Numbers:

See Emergencies.