The NHS Grampian, an affiliate of the Scottish National Health Services (NHS), is the main provider of healthcare in Aberdeen. Healthcare in Aberdeen is excellent, with the NHS offering pioneering treatments. While most expats in Aberdeen choose public healthcare, those who can afford it use the private sector to skip long waiting times.

To receive treatment under the national system, expats must register with a local general practitioner. GPs are the first port of call for non-emergency medical concerns. Appointments with specialists can only be made via referral from a GP.

Scotland was the first country in the UK to eliminate prescription fees, meaning residents do not have to pay for medication prescribed by their doctors. Full-time students are also eligible for free healthcare under the NHS Grampian, as the system is tax-funded. 

The downside of public healthcare in Aberdeen is that patients often face long waiting lists for treatment. Waiting times at private hospitals are much shorter, but they can be extremely pricey. For this reason, expats wanting to use private medical treatment are advised to invest in medical insurance to cover the costs.

Read Healthcare in the UK to learn more about the country's overall healthcare system. 

Below is a selection of recommended public and private hospitals in Aberdeen.

Public hospitals in Aberdeen

Healthcare banner

Aberdeen Royal Infirmary

Website: www.nhsgrampian.org
Address: Foresterhill Rd, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN

Aberdeen Maternity Hospital

Website: www.nhsgrampian.org
Address: Cornhill Rd, Aberdeen AB25 2ZL

Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital

Website: www.nhsgrampian.org
Address: Westburn Rd, Aberdeen AB25 2ZG

Private hospitals in Aberdeen

Albyn Hospital

Website: www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk
Address: 21–24 Albyn Pl, Aberdeen AB10 1RW

The Aberdeen Clinic

Website: www.tachealthcaregroup.com
Address: 387A N Deeside Rd, Cults, Aberdeen AB15 9SX

What do expats say about their experiences with healthcare in Aberdeen?

"I don’t think healthcare here has as good standards as what I’ve been used to in Canada. The NHS seems to offer the bare minimum treatment for both health and dental care, and it seems as though there’s not enough time spent on patients; the doctor’s appointments I’ve had in the past have only been for no longer than 15 minutes each time. If you want better care, you’re forced to go with the private option, which means having to pay." Learn more about healthcare and life in Scotland in our interview with Canadian expat Danielle. 

Further reading

►For more in-depth information, see Healthcare in the United Kingdom
 

Are you an expat living in Aberdeen?

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

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