Healthcare in Rio de Janeiro is available in the form of both public and private facilities. Although expats living in Brazil with permanent residency status are able to access free public healthcare, most opt for healthcare at private institutions. This is largely due to the poor quality of the public health system. 

Private healthcare in Brazil is among the most expensive in Latin America, so it’s essential for expats living in Rio de Janeiro to have comprehensive health insurance. Expats moving to Rio as part of a corporate relocation package often have their health insurance costs covered by their employer.

The standards of private health facilities in Rio are generally high. The city even has a reputation as a medical tourist hotspot, particularly in the field of cosmetic surgery. Many private institutions offer special sections for international patients with English-speaking staff. 

Hospitals in Rio de Janeiro

Barra D’or Hospital

Website: www.barrador.com.br
Address: Avenida Ayrton Senna, 3079, Barra da Tijuca

Galdino Campos Clinic

Website: www.clinicagaldinocampos.com.br
Address: Avenida Nossa Senhora de Copacabana, 492, Copacabana

Hospital Copa D’or

Website: www.copador.com.br
Address: Rua Figueiredo de Magalhães, 875, Copacabana

Hospital Samaritano

Website: www.hsamaritano.com.br
Address: Rua Bambina, 98, Botafogo

Casa de Saúde São José

Website: www.cssj.com.br
Address: Rua Macedo Sobrinho, 21, Humaitá

Quinta D’or Hospital

Website: www.quintador.com.br
Address: Rua Alm. Baltazar, 435, São Cristóvão

Further reading

►Learn more about with Healthcare in Brazil

Expat Experiences

"Public healthcare is universal here, but its quality and speed is mediocre compared to private options. I’ve actually never gone to a hospital or health clinic in Brazil. One thing I’ve had trouble with is obtaining certain medications at pharmacies here, but a lot of medications you’d need prescriptions for in the US don’t require prescriptions here." Read more of Elliot's expat interview.

Are you an expat living in Rio de Janeiro?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Rio de Janeiro. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.