Healthcare in Peru

Healthcare in Peru is inconsistent, particularly in the rural areas, where there are only a few decent facilities. There are public and private healthcare facilities in the country, but expats usually prefer to make use of private healthcare, as public facilities are notoriously inadequate.

Public healthcare in Peru

Public healthcare in Peru is generally poor and insufficient, largely due to a serious lack of funding. Government-funded hospitals have long waiting times, and those with non-urgent health concerns often have to wait months for an appointment.

Basic healthcare is seriously lacking in rural areas, with small, under-resourced clinics providing basic services. It’s unlikely that staff in these facilities can speak English, and any serious medical emergencies may require evacuation to a city with better-equipped facilities.

Private healthcare in Peru

Private healthcare facilities are available in Peru, particularly in Lima and Cusco. These institutions are largely better staffed and equipped than public healthcare and are the preferred option for expats living in Peru.

Private healthcare in Peru is typically quite affordable, but doctors will typically expect cash payment upfront, regardless of a patient’s health insurance. You should confirm this ahead of time when visiting a doctor.

Health insurance in Peru

Public health insurance is available to Peruvian nationals through two systems: Segura Integral de Salud (SIS) and EsSalud. SIS is regulated by the Peruvian Ministry of Health and is largely aimed at the poor and those without health coverage. EsSalud is aimed at the working population and their families, providing healthcare within a specific network of medical facilities.

For easy access to the private system, expats should ensure that they have some form of private health insurance. If you're moving to Peru as part of a corporate relocation package, you should consider the cost of health insurance when negotiating a contract.

Pharmacies in Peru

Pharmacies (botica or farmacia) are plentiful in Peruvian cities, and many are open 24/7. Some larger supermarkets, such as Santa Isabel, also have pharmacies, and most medications are readily available over the counter.

Some larger pharmacy chains in larger cities, like Lima, offer a 24-hour delivery service. You can place your order telephonically and have a courier deliver it to your doorstep. 

Health hazards in Peru

When moving to Peru, you should prepare yourself for altitude sickness, as it's fairly common in the country. Symptoms include headache, nausea, lethargy, and dizziness. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, you should visit a healthcare professional.

There is some risk of malaria in rural areas of Peru, particularly in the jungle areas east of the Andes Mountains. If you're visiting these areas, you should ensure that you take the advised precautions.

Vaccines for Peru

Several vaccines and booster shots are necessary to enter and live in Peru safely. The USA's Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a health advisory for Oropouche Fever in numerous South American countries, including Peru. The fever is transmitted through bug bites, so we recommend protecting yourself against bug bites, particularly in the tropical areas. 

There have also been reports of Chikungunya and measles in Peru, so you should ensure you receive vaccines or booster shots against these diseases. Other routine vaccinations for Peru include: 

• Chickenpox
• Influenza
• Polio
• Shingles
• MMR
• Covid-19

Emergency services in Peru

Rural areas seriously lack emergency services, but they are available in the larger cities. To reach an ambulance in larger cities like Lima, dial 117.

Hospitals in Lima

Clinica Anglo Americana

Website: www.clinicaangloamericana.pe
Address: Av. Emilio Cavenecia 250, San Isidro 15073

Clinica San Borja

Website: www.sanna.pe/clinicas/san-borja-lima
Address: Av. Guardia Civil 337, San Borja 15036

Clinica el Golf

Website: www.sanna.pe/clinicas/el-golf-lima
Address: Av. Aurelio Miró Quesada 1030, San Isidro 15073