Overseas property experts at Property Guides have analysed which popular expat countries offer the best and most affordable healthcare.
Germany
Both Germany and the Netherlands came in second place as some of the best and most affordable healthcare systems.
Germany has a national healthcare system similar to the NHS to which citizens contribute around 7.5 percent.
The country also has the highest number of hospital beds per 10,000 population, meaning the country is the best equipped of all the most popular expat destinations.
The Netherlands
The Dutch healthcare system is very different to the one in the UK.
People contribute 9.65 percent to state healthcare and it is one of the highest performing healthcare systems in Europe.
However, health insurance is mandatory in the Netherlands and expats will need to take out at least a basic healthcare policy.
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Spain and the United Arab Emirates ranked in the top five countries with the best healthcare.
Spain
The Mediterranean country has universal healthcare, which guarantees access to free healthcare for all Spanish nationals.
GP visits are free with state health insurance but expats will need to pay a proportion of the prescription fees.
Many Spanish citizens pay for private insurance alongside state insurance.
Senior Content Editor at Property Guides, Chris Nye, commented: “While the cost of living and quality of life are certainly major reasons to move abroad, healthcare should also be a vital deciding factor.
“Health can be very unpredictable, and you just never know when you might need help or emergency care. And you certainly don’t want the added stress of footing a hefty bill when you’re already sick.
“Wherever you move to, it’s wise to take out at least the most basic health cover to avoid being left in the lurch.
“Healthcare can differ greatly from country to country, so it’s wise to do your research before you decide to make the move. You may need to apply for a health insurance card to get access to state healthcare, or you may need to choose a private health insurance policy to get your cover.”
