Inoculations are not necessary for most travellers coming into Argentina. However, AIDS-related diseases are, as in the rest of the world, growing, and cholera has reappeared in some regions. In an emergency, use the general emergency number 107 to call an ambulance.
Hospital
In Buenos Aires the Hospital Británico (private hospital) and the Hospital de Niños Dr Ricardo Gutiérrez (public hospital) are the places most likely to have English speaking staff.
The main hospitals in Buenos Aires are the German Hospital, Fernandez Hospital, Clinica Suizo Argentina, Clinica Bazterrica, Rivadavia Hospital, French Hospital, Clinica de la Trinidad, and Italian Hospital. For emergencies use Asistencia Medica SAME (dial 107 toll free).
Useful Addresses:
- Hospitals and Clinics in Argentina
- List of Hospitals in Argentina
- World Health Organization: Argentina Profile
- Lonely Planet: Practical Information -- Health
- Ministry of Health: Contact Information
- Ministerio de Salud de la Nacion (in Spanish)
- Hospitals in the City of Buenos Aires (in Spanish)
Pharmacy
In Buenos Aires, a pharmacy (farmacia) is very easy to find, and there always at least one open 24 hours.
The Farmacity chain is open 24 hours, with locations at Lavalle 919 (tel. 11/4821-3000) and Av. Santa Fe 2830 (tel. 11/4821-0235). Farmacity will also deliver your medications.
Most pharmaceutical drugs can be purchased over the counter without a prescription. The pharmacist can also recommend remedies for common ailments, flu, stomach disorders, headache, etc.
Update 29/05/2009
Expatriate health insurance in Argentina
With so much to deal with before leaving your home country, (taxes, moving house, paperwork etc.) the careful planning of your expatriation to Buenos Aires is an essential step. As far as healthcare is concerned, your local social security scheme won’t be accompanying you to your host country and, once abroad, you might be surprised by the care system you find in Argentina So, before leaving, make sure you have appropriate cover!
Cigna is one of the world's biggest international insurers with more than 30 years' experience in providing global health insurance across 200 countries and territories. They have access to more than 1.65 million hospitals, physicians, clinics and specialists worldwide.
Cigna Global's flexible plans are specifically designed for expats and globally mobile individuals who move to Argentina. All their plans can be tailored to your individual requirements in Argentina, always finding the right healthcare solution, whatever the situation and budget.
Getting a health insurance quote
Create your perfect plan with Cigna and combine the reassurance of comprehensive inpatient cover with the flexibility of optional extra benefits.
Click on the button to access the online tool and get a quote in 2 minutes.