Healthcare System in Andorra: everything you need to know

How does the health care system operate in Andorra?

Andorra has both a public and a private health care system. The public system, known by its acronym CASS, is compulsory for all employed persons, and covers about 92% of the population. It is financed through taxes on workers and employers.

Medical visits are covered at 90%, while specialist consultations, therapies and dental care are covered at 75%. Accidents at work, as well as all the costs of childbirth, are totally free.

This small country located in the Pyrenees, between France and Spain, has only one hospital: the Hospital Nostra Senyora de Maritxell, located in Escaldes-Engordany. There are also 12 primary health centers throughout the country. It has been recognized by many studies as one of the best health systems in the world because due to its size and low population, it can provide health services to all.

Non-employed residents and tourists must have private health insurance. Otherwise, they will have to pay 100% of the price of the services they require. There is an exception if the resident or foreigner demonstrates that he/she does not have the means to pay for the service, in which case it will be totally free. This is part of the motto of solidarity that the service offers, ensuring that no one will be excluded from medical services, regardless of whether they can afford it or not.

Most procedures can be performed at the local hospital, however for more serious cases, patients are transferred to Barcelona or Toulouse where the Andorran system is also effective.

How does the system work for foreigners?

All foreigners traveling to Andorra must have private health insurance. Especially if they go skiing, the main tourist attraction. You have to be aware that it is a risky sport, and accidents can happen unexpectedly, so it is very important to be protected with a health insurance.

If you are going to live permanently or for a long period of time in Andorra, in order to join the local health system, you must contribute to the Social Security Fund. If you work in Andorra and receive a salary, you are required to contribute to the fund. If you are unemployed and want to be affiliated you will have to pay between 200 and 400 Euros per month. You can also choose a private health insurance. Regardless of your preference, you will have the freedom to choose where and with which doctor you want to be treated.

There are some private health centers, authorized and monitored by the local government.

If you want to find the best health insurance for your trip to Andorra, visit InternationalHealth.com where you can compare, quote and purchase travel insurance and international health insurance at no additional cost and 100% online. Remember to always travel with health insurance. 

How do pharmacies work in Andorra?

Andorra has a wide network of pharmacies covering the whole territory. In them you can find all prescription and non-prescription drugs, as well as supplements, hygiene and beauty products.

You can also receive assistance from the pharmacist who can tell you what medicine you need for your ailment.

If you travel with medication to Andorra, the recommendation is to bring your prescription and a letter from your doctor with the details of the medication.

In the following link you can check out all the pharmacies available in the country.

What do I do if I have an emergency?

The emergency service in Andorra is very good, and has assistance centers throughout the country.

For medical emergencies, you should dial 116, and for firefighters, 118.

Entry requirements

There are no restrictions to enter Andorra because of Covid-19.

Remember that it is an EU country, therefore the restrictions are the same as in the other member countries, find out if your country of nationality requires a visa to enter.