No one ever wants to think about the unfortunate events that might happen you’re on vaycay, but sometimes, shit just can’t help but rear up its ugly head and bite you in the ass. But hey, when you come to a city where streets are this steep and the signature dish is a mini-version of a cardiac arrest, you are definitely looking for trouble! We are obviously exaggerating for the sake of humour, but luckily for you, emergency services are widespread in Porto and fairly efficient when it comes to taking care of your health issues. With 24h pharmacy services, dentistry clinics and several hospitals (both public and private), it’s good to know there are good professionals you may rely on when things get out of hand.
EMERGENCY SERVICES IN PORTO
24H PHARMACY
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Needless to say, and as in any big city, there are many pharmacies working around the clock all over Porto. However, and since you’ll probably be spending most of your time downtown, we recommend visiting Farmácia Barreiros or Farmácia Cortes Pinto. Located in the city centre, both of these places are open 24/7 and have staff members who can speak English and will be able to help you out in times of need.
PUBLIC HOSPITALS
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When looking into a city’s public healthcare system, the amount and quality of its hospitals are usually very good indicators. In Porto, public hospitals are plentiful, and most of these can easily be reached if you use public transportation, such as metro or bus. Such examples are Hospital Pedro Hispano and Hospital São João, both bearing metro stops near-by which were named after them. On the other hand, the Hospital Santo António is the one located closest to the city centre, and can easily be reached by foot.
Public hospitals will give you the treatment you need, although be aware that waiting times are often long.
PRIVATE HOSPITALS
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Although public hospitals will be happy to accommodate all your needs, resorting to private health units may also be a solution, especially if you want a more urgent and personal service without having to wait for too long. On the other hand, and as you might expect, one night here will probably cost you more than what you’re paying for that beautiful Air BnB apartment you’re staying at!
Still, if you feel more comfortable being treated in a calmer and more secluded atmosphere, CUF Porto, Hospital da Prelada or Casa de Saúde da Boavista are among the best private hospitals you’ll find in the city.
DENTIST
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No pain is more nagging than a toothache. No matter what you do, you simply can’t get yourself comfortable while your entire mouth is declaring war on your brain! For that reason alone, you should always look out for dentists whenever you travel – but it looks like we’ve done it for you already!
If toothaches come knocking at your door while in Porto, try visiting Clínica Dentária de Santa Catarina or Smile UP. Both places have talented english-speaking experts who will fix you up and help you get rid of those awful pains!
Clínica Dentária de Santa Catarina
EMERGENCY NUMBER
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Last, but certainly not least, there only 1 magic number you must dial when a medical emergency comes up while in Portugal: 112.
Let’s hope you never have to use any of this information provided – but better safe than sorry, right? Is there any other important information you’d like to see mentioned? Let us know on the comments section!
