How does the healthcare system work in Peru, and which travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the health and healthcare system work in Peru?

The quality of health care varies greatly between the public and private sectors and urban and rural areas.
As a resident in Peru, you can choose between two types of public insurance. The first layer of health care is the subsidized system SIS (Seguro Integral de Salud). It provides universal assistance to low-income people.
Then you also have EsSalud, which is paid for by employers. This is mandatory for every employee, both in the private and public sectors.
Medical evacuation may be required for specific (emergency) treatments.
Emergency care is available 24/7 in the larger cities.
As an expat, you have the same rights regarding health care as locals. Even if you don't have insurance, some treatments are completely free.
The best care can be found in Lima.

In Lima and Cusco you will find good private health care.
Private health care is preferred among expats.
Sometimes you have to pay in advance in cash, so keep that in mind.
You are much more likely to be able to make yourself understood with English here.
Costs can be quite high.

Most births take place in the hospital. There is plenty of support and staff.
Home birth is also an option, but is less common.
A third option is a birth center. It is a center with a home-like feel and good midwives.
Cesarean section is also still relatively common.
There is good prenatal care.
For high-risk pregnancies, you can go to Lima, Arequipa and Trujillo.
Abortion is mostly illegal, with some exceptions.

Peru is relatively safe compared to other countries in Latin America, but there are things to consider.
In the cities, theft is a big problem and robberies also occur.
There are also many unregistered cabs that take advantage of tourists/expats.
Protests are quite common, and sometimes they last from days to weeks. Usually they are peaceful, but it may be wise to avoid such gatherings and monitor the situation through media.
In Peru you have “The Shining Path,” a domestic insurgency group involved in drug smuggling. They have been less active in recent years and chances are slim, but it is better to avoid the areas where they are active.
Be especially careful in the border area with Colombia and around the Amazon River. Check the latest safety advisories before you leave.

Altitude sickness is common in Peru. Watch for symptoms such as headaches, nausea, lethargy and dizziness.
Several tropical diseases are common. So be sure to get the necessary vaccinations or medications in advance.
The drinking water is not safe to drink.

One of the biggest safety risks is the risk of road accidents. Fatal accidents often occur because of driving.
Be careful when walking on the streets. Not much consideration is given to pedestrians.
Bus accidents are also common, especially at night. So make sure you book your bus trip with a good transportation company.

Is the trip to Peru and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

Insurance is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Public care is not of good quality and private care can be expensive. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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