How does healthcare work in Andorra, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Andorra?

What is the quality of healthcare in Andorra?

• Research has shown that over a 25-year period, Andorra has been at the top of the list of most accessible and high-quality healthcare (HAQ score) in the world.
• Andorra also has one of the highest life expectancies in the world, thanks to its good healthcare system, healthy mountain air and low stress levels.
• Andorra has one hospital and around 12 health centres. If you can't get help here, you can go to neighbouring countries France, Spain or Portugal.
• Andorra has a social security system - the Caixa Andorrana De Seguretat Socail (CASS), which covers over 90% of the population. The rest of the population has private insurance.
• Pharmacies are everywhere in Andorra and are of good quality.
• Most doctors speak English, Spanish and Catalan.
• Emergency services are available to everyone, including the uninsured. The emergency number is 116.

How does the public healthcare system work in Andorra?

• The Servei Andorrà d’Atenció Sanitària (SAAS) is the national health service of Andorra, which coordinates both public and private healthcare.
• Every company is required to register its employees for CASS. Self-employed people can make a voluntary contribution based on their income. The average contribution from the employee is 7% of the salary, and from the employer 15%. Unemployed people pay around 300 euros per month.
• CASS covers 90% of the costs for hospital stays and specialist care and 75% of the costs of medicines and medical treatments. Your CASS card is also valid in Spain, France and Portugal. You pay in Andorra with your CASS card.
• Nostra Senyora de Meritxell Hospital is the public hospital. The hospital has modern facilities and every resident who contributes to the social care system has free access to care in the hospital. The country's small size ensures that care is fast and efficient, without long waiting times.
• There are also well-organised health centres that provide efficient care.
• The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) are not valid in Andorra.

How does the private healthcare system work in Andorra?

• About a quarter of the population has private health insurance in addition to their public health insurance.
• Private specialists can be hired to perform operations and treatments in emergencies.

How is the family doctor or general practitioner arranged in Andorra?

• Patients can easily choose a GP within the CASS system. GP care is partly reimbursed by the public system.
• This personal GP is the one who monitors the health of the insured person. He or she can also refer you to a specialist.
• For direct access, some expats opt for a private GP. Consultations with private GPs are not fully reimbursed by the CASS, unless you have additional insurance.

How is the dental care and dentist arranged in Andorra?

• There are public and private dental facilities. Basic dental care is covered by insurance, but more extensive care often has to be paid for out of pocket.
• Expats often choose private dentists. The costs are reasonable and the quality of care is excellent. For more extensive treatments, such as orthodontics or implants, it is advisable to take out private insurance.

How is pregnancy and maternity care arranged in Andorra?

• Andorra offers extensive prenatal care through both public and private healthcare providers. Check-ups are largely covered by the CASS and take place at your local health centre. Here you can also discuss your entire birth plan.
• Giving birth in Andorra usually takes place in the only hospital, Hospital Nostra Senyora de Meritxell, which is known for its modern facilities and personal care. Both natural births and caesarean sections are performed professionally. You can also go to neighbouring countries Spain, Portugal and France for a birth with CASS coverage.
• The CASS covers 100% of the cost of a birth. Private healthcare options are available for extra comfort.
• Abortion is illegal in Andorra.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Andorra?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Andorra?

• Andorra is one of the safest countries in the world and is known for its low crime rate. This small mountain state offers a peaceful, safe environment for residents and expats.
• Serious crime is virtually non-existent. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, is rare, even in tourist areas. Expats rarely report unsafe situations.
• Andorra is particularly safe for female travelers and residents. The country has an open and welcoming culture.
• Due to its location in the Pyrenees, there are some natural risks, such as avalanches in winter and sudden weather changes while hiking.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Andorra?

• Due to its high altitude, some people can suffer from altitude sickness, especially if they are not used to mountains. Symptoms include headaches, nausea and fatigue.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Andorra?

• The roads are in good condition and well maintained, even in winter. However, in the mountains, roads can be narrow and steep.
• Snow and icy conditions are common in winter. Winter tires or snow chains are mandatory in bad weather conditions.
• Andorra has strict traffic laws, and violations such as speeding or driving under the influence are heavily fined.
• Public transport is limited to buses, which are reliable and affordable. Many expats choose to have their own car to explore the country.

What are the best insurance options for backpacking, traveling, doing an internship, studying, volunteering, or working in Andorra?

• Is the trip to Andorra and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity?
• Insurance for backpacking and traveling in Andorra
• Insurance for studying in Andorra
• Insurance for internships in Andorra
• Insurance for volunteering in Andorra
• Insurance for digital nomads or paid work in Andorra

What types of insurance should you get if you're planning to emigrate, work as an expat, or live in Andorra?

• It is mandatory to have insurance when you stay in Andorra. If you do not qualify for public insurance, you must take out private insurance.
• International health insurance for Andorra
• International travel insurance for Andorra
• International life insurance for Andorra
• International income protection insurance for Andorra