Healthcare System in Peru: everything you need to know

How does the healthcare system work?

In Peru, the health system is divided into subsystems that serve different segments of the population and have different forms of financing.

A first layer of assistance is provided by the subsidized system financed by the public sector and implemented through the "Seguro Integral de Salud" (SIS). The SIS has different layers of coverage, depending on the user's profile: in its most basic layer, it provides universal care to people who do not have private health insurance. In its most complete layers, it covers people living in poverty and people who wish to become independent affiliates.

The system that insures formal workers is run through different institutions that are financed by contributions from their insured members and, to a lesser extent, by public funds. The best known institution, because it serves workers of companies and public institutions, is Essalud. For Essalud policyholders, there is also the possibility of complementing their coverage with an EPS. Additionally, there are institutions for members of the police and armed forces.

The private sector is made up of the Health Provider Companies (EPS) and private insurance. In the case of the former, they can be complementary to EsSalud, so that the EPSs provide simple medical care to workers, i.e., they take care of minor illnesses, health consultations and non-complex hospitalizations, so that EsSalud is able to provide more complex medical care.

It is important to keep in mind that only the private system offers its plans to the entire public.  Depending on the one you choose, you will have to be treated in public, social or private assistance networks, as appropriate. 

What should I know about healthcare as a foreigner in Peru?

The Peruvian system lacks the standard that other countries in the region have established with their health care systems. It is estimated that 90% of the population is treated in public health centers.

As a foreign citizen, you have the same rights to healthcare as any Peruvian citizen. Even if you do not have an insurance plan, some services, like maternity care are completely free, even for migrants. 

If you are going to Peru on vacation, it is a good idea to hire travel insurance. However, if you are going to live in the for an extended period of time, international health insurance may be a better option. At InternationalHealth.com you will find the best insurance options to quote, compare and hire online. 

Where can I receive medical attention in Peru?

If you are are affiliated to SIS (public system), as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, you can be treated at any first level health center run by the Ministry of Health, all throughout national territory. Previously, you could only be seen at the health center assigned to you at the time you enrolled in the system.

However, if you have an EPS plan, you should consult directly with your provider to see which health center you should go to. 

As for the best medical centers in the country, they are very centralized in the capital city of Lima. There you will find the best clinics, including Clinica Ricardo Palma, Clinica Internacional and Clinica Anglo Americana.

In the public sector, the Belen Hospital has been recognized by the Ministry of Health as the best in terms of performance.

In Cusco, one of Peru's main tourist attractions, you can find the Clinica Peruano Suiza and Clinica Cima, which offer 24-hour emergency care. 
 

What should I do if I have an emergency?

In case of emergency, by dialing 911 you will contact the Emergency Assistance Line. Through this number you can request assistance from police and firefighters.

However, if you have a medical emergency, by dialing 106, the SAMU of Peru will provide the necessary attention, free of charge and in any location.  

Other emergency numbers:

• Police #105
• Firefighters #116
• Red Cross #115

How do pharmacies work in Peru?

All pharmacies, or boticas as they are commonly known in Peru, are staffed by a pharmaceutical chemist during business hours.

The local government recommends buying medicines only in authorized pharmaceutical establishments, meaning that they have a Sanitary Authorization to Operate granted by the Ministry of Health (MINSA).

The Peruvian pharmaceutical industry, monopolized by the Inkafarma group, has been widely criticized for shortages of many medicines, especially in the public sector where medicines are provided by MINSA.

It is advisable to travel to Peru with a stock of the medicines that you should take or might require in order to avoid unpleasant surprises during your trip. If you do so, take the prescription as well as the original container of the medicine so that you can show it when entering the country. 

Entry Requirements for Peru

As of today, any traveler over 12 years of age must be fully vaccinated according to their country's vaccination mandate in order to enter Peru. All those boarding flights to Peru must be fully asymptomatic.

If travelers are not vaccinated, they must present a negative molecular test, taken 48 hours prior to boarding.

They must also complete the health affidavit that you will find in the following link.