- Download our Moving to Seattle Guide (PDF)
Healthcare in Seattle benefits from one of the biggest employment sectors in the city, with a high concentration of doctors. Seattle is home to some of the leading medical research facilities in the US, including the Seattle Children’s Hospital and the Swedish Medical Center. The standard of healthcare provision does vary throughout the city, though.
The Seattle city government is taking steps to address these disparities, but you should ensure you’re covered by a thorough health insurance plan so that you have access to the best healthcare in Seattle.
Most medical insurance plans will require you to pay for your medical expenses upfront and will then reimburse you after submitting claims. Private healthcare in America also gives you access to the best facilities, healthcare practitioners and shorter waiting times, but you should be aware that healthcare costs in the country can be steep.
Pharmacies are readily available throughout Seattle. Seattle no longer has any 24-hour pharmacies, although most major pharmacy chains offer extended hours, with some locations open until late evening.
Healthcare and Health Insurance in the USA
Hospitals in Seattle

UW Medical Center – Northwest
Website: www.uwmedicine.org/locations/uw-medical-center-northwest
Address: 1550 N 115th Street
UW Medical Center – Montlake
Website: www.uwmedicine.org/locations/uw-medical-center-montlake
Address: 1959 NE Pacific Street
Harborview Medical Center
Website: www.uwmedicine.org/locations/harborview-medical-center
Address: 325 9th Avenue
Seattle Children’s Hospital
Website: www.seattlechildrens.org
Address: 4800 Sand Point Way NE
Swedish Medical Center – Cherry Hill
Website: www.swedish.org
Address: 500 17th Avenue
What do expats say about healthcare in Seattle?
"Healthcare in Seattle is decent but expensive."
Check out our Expat Arrivals interview about living in Seattle with Indian expat Padmaja to learn more.
Further reading
►Understanding Health Insurance in the USA is essential reading for expats moving to Seattle
Are you an expat living in Seattle, WA?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Seattle, WA. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.
Expat Health Insurance
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Cigna Global Health Insurance
Moving your family abroad is an exciting time, but for peace of mind you should make sure you get health insurance for you and your family. Cigna gives you access to the best health professionals in your destination, and has a Multilingual Customer Care team that you can call 24/7.
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