Healthcare costs are a major concern worldwide, with some countries known for their exorbitant hospitalization expenses.
For travelers or expatriates, knowing where hospitalization can drain their finances is crucial, especially if faced with unforeseen medical emergencies abroad.
A study by Staysure, a UK-based travel insurance company, compiled a list of the 10 most expensive countries to be hospitalized in, based on data from the World Health Organization (WHO).
Here’s an overview of these countries and their hospitalization costs.
1. Monaco
Monaco tops the list as the most expensive country for hospitalization. A stay in a hospital here costs a staggering £2,400 (approximately $3,074) per bed, per night.
This price is comparable to an economy flight from New York to London. The tiny Mediterranean city-state is known for its luxurious lifestyle, and healthcare costs reflect this.
Despite the steep prices, Monaco offers some of the best medical care, often catering to the elite and tourists alike.
The combination of high demand for services and a wealthy population contributes to the soaring healthcare costs.
2. Luxembourg
Luxembourg, another affluent European country, ranks second. A hospital stay here costs around £1,500 ($1,922) per night.
While expensive, Luxembourg’s hospitals are equipped with cutting-edge medical technology and some of the best healthcare professionals in the world.
Its healthcare system is also one of the most innovative and efficient in Europe. For those traveling to Luxembourg, it’s essential to consider the potential high medical costs, as the price for a short stay can quickly add up.
3. Norway
In Norway, the cost of hospitalization is equally high, with a one-night stay costing £1,150 (about $1,473).
This amount is more than the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in the United States. Norway, known for its high standards of living and excellent healthcare services, maintains some of the best hospitals in the world, which contributes to its high prices.
However, the quality of care ensures that patients receive exceptional attention. Travelers should be prepared for substantial medical bills should they need hospitalization in this Scandinavian country.
4. Switzerland
Switzerland, renowned for its impeccable healthcare system and expensive living standards, is another costly destination for hospitalization.
A night in a Swiss hospital costs around £900 ($1,154), which is nearly the equivalent of what a family of four might spend on groceries in the U.S. for a month.
The cost of healthcare is a reflection of the country’s dedication to top-tier medical services, with well-trained professionals, advanced medical equipment, and highly regulated healthcare facilities.
For tourists or expatriates visiting Switzerland, the cost of medical services should not be underestimated.
5. Australia
Australia, famous for its natural beauty and dangerous wildlife, also has high healthcare costs. A hospital stay in Australia costs approximately £700 ($897) per night.
While Australians have access to universal healthcare through Medicare, international visitors, particularly those from outside the country, can expect to pay high out-of-pocket expenses if they need hospitalization.
Given the high risks associated with Australian wildlife, from snake bites to jellyfish stings, travelers should consider comprehensive travel insurance to avoid financial strain in case of hospitalization.
6. Denmark
A hospital stay in Denmark costs around £700 ($897) per night. Denmark, ranking 7th globally for healthcare innovation, offers excellent medical services that justify the high costs.
The country has an advanced medical infrastructure, and its hospitals are well-regarded internationally for their efficiency and the quality of care they provide.
Denmark’s universal healthcare system serves its citizens well, but for foreign visitors, these costs can quickly accumulate without proper travel insurance or other coverage.
7. San Marino
The small European microstate of San Marino ranks as the 7th most expensive country for hospitalization.
A hospital stay here costs £650 ($833) per bed, per night, which is about the same price as a 16-inch Dell Inspiron laptop.
Despite its small size, San Marino has access to high-quality healthcare services, though its medical facilities may not be as expansive as those in larger countries.
Still, the high cost reflects the country’s commitment to maintaining quality care despite being one of the smallest independent states in the world.
8. Qatar
Qatar, a wealthy country in the Middle East, is known for its opulent lifestyle and state-of-the-art medical facilities.
A hospital stay here costs £600 ($769) per night. Qatar’s healthcare system is one of the best in the region, offering modern facilities and world-class medical professionals.
The country’s growing population of expatriates and wealthy residents has created a demand for high-end healthcare services, which drives the cost up.
For those visiting Qatar, healthcare costs should be factored into any travel budget, especially if an emergency arises.
9. Sweden
Sweden, known for its high standard of living and progressive healthcare system, has hospital costs of around £600 ($769) per night.
The country offers some of the best medical care in the world, supported by a robust public healthcare system that serves its residents well.
However, international visitors may face high costs for hospitalization, particularly if they are not covered by Swedish health insurance.
Despite the steep prices, Sweden’s efficient and comprehensive healthcare system ensures that patients receive excellent care.
10. United States
The United States rounds off the list of the top 10 most expensive countries for hospitalization. A hospital stay costs an average of £600 ($769) per night.
However, this figure is often underestimated, as the actual costs of healthcare in the U.S. can be astronomical.
For instance, the cost to treat a broken leg in the U.S. can exceed $7,500, and a three-night stay in a hospital can easily run up to $30,000.
The U.S. healthcare system is highly privatized, and medical bills can vary greatly depending on the hospital, location, and the patient’s insurance coverage.
For foreigners traveling to the U.S., medical insurance is strongly recommended to avoid unexpected and potentially crippling costs.
Alicia Richards