Significant progress has been made in recent years to improve the general standard of healthcare in São Paulo, although economic challenges since 2014 have created new pressures on the system. That said, the inequalities that mark most of Brazilian society are also present in the city’s healthcare system. There is a disparity between what is accessible to most of the local population and the city’s wealthier residents.

São Paulo has a two-tier health system consisting of public and private hospitals. Brazilians have access to free healthcare at government hospitals.

Hospitals in São Paulo tend to be concentrated in the upper-income areas that expats are likely to live in, meaning they will be easily accessible. Given that its healthcare system has to serve millions of residents, there is a wide selection of hospitals, pharmacies and private practices available to expats living in the city.

Since Brazil is a Portuguese-speaking country, expats may experience some language barriers, but most doctors tend to have some basic knowledge of English or Spanish. This is especially true for doctors working in the private sector.

Expats in São Paulo will have access to highly-skilled doctors and medical staff, the latest technology and a variety of world-class options when it comes to private care. Of course, this comes at a price, and it’s critical to invest in extensive health coverage.

Pharmacies in São Paulo are widely accessible and affordable. Some pharmacies are open 24 hours a day and have a range of general and prescription medications.

Below are some of the most highly regarded hospitals in São Paulo.

Hospitals in São Paulo

doctor in hospital hallway

Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein

Website: www.einstein.br 
Address: Avenida Albert Einstein, 627/701

Hospital Alemão Oswaldo Cruz

Website: www.hospitaloswaldocruz.org.br 
Address: Rua Treze de Maio, 1815, Bela Vista

Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo

Website: www.hc.fm.usp.br
Address: Rua Dr. Ovídio Pires de Campos, 225, Cerqueira César

Hospital Sírio-Libanês

Website: www.hospitalsiriolibanes.org.br
Address: Rua Dona Adma Jafet, 115, Bela Vista

Blanc Hospital – São Paulo

Website: www.blanchospital.com.br
Address: Avenida dos Bandeirantes, 679

Hospital Rede D’Or São Luiz Itaim

Website: www.rededorsaoluiz.com.br
Address: Rua Dr. Alceu de Campos Rodrigues, 143

Hospital Paulista

Website: www.hospitalpaulista.com.br
Address: Rua Dr. Diogo de Faria, 780

What do expats say about healthcare in São Paulo?

"In hospitals like Einstein or Sírio Libanes you get world-class doctors, equipment and treatment. They are very costly, though, so be prepared and get a good health plan if you can."

In her expat interview about São Paulo, Estonian expat Dona shares her experiences of this bustling city.

"In the extent that my family has had to use the healthcare so far, we’ve been quite satisfied. Facilities, while not the most modern, are clean; doctors are all quite skilled. It is easy to find healthcare when needed, there are many choices, and we’ve even found English-speaking doctors in every field we’ve needed."

Read more of American expat Heather’s expat interview about São Paulo.

Further reading

►Read more about Healthcare and Health Insurance for expats in Brazil.

►Getting Around in São Paulo covers transport options in the city

Are you an expat living in Sao Paulo?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Sao Paulo. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.