8 Different Ways to Search for a Medical Doctor in Argentina
Book an online doctor consultation in Argentina.
Search for nearby doctors through Google Maps or Google Search.
Check official public health directories to locate a general practitioner.
Ask your hotel concierge or Airbnb host to recommend a local doctor.
Consult your embassy’s list of accredited doctors in Argentina.
Reach out to local expat communities for trusted doctor recommendations.
Go to a walk-in clinic or private urgent care center.
Head to the nearest hospital emergency department if it’s an urgent case.
Why Online Doctor Consultations are the Smart Choice for Travelers
One of the most convenient and easiest ways to do medical consultations is through online telehealth services that are usually available 24/7, helping you connect with licensed doctors wherever you are. Here are some of the reasons why online doctor consultations are a smart first step:
✅ Accessibility – Many telemedicine platforms operate round-the-clock, so you can get medical advice anytime even late at night, on weekends, or during holidays.
✅ Convenience – Skip the travel and waiting rooms. You can consult a doctor or specialist right from your hotel, Airbnb, or even your tour van—perfect for saving time and avoiding the stress of finding a local clinic.
✅ Instant Prescriptions – After your consultation, your doctor can email you an electronic prescription, which you can easily present at any nearby pharmacy to get your medication right away.
✅ Affordable Care – Online consultations typically start around $20, making them one of the most budget-friendly healthcare options for travelers who just need quick, reliable care.
✅ No Language Barriers – Many telemedicine services provide consultations in multiple languages. With Doctorsa, for instance, you can speak with an English-speaking doctor licensed in the country you’re visiting, so you’re always clearly understood.
✅ Follow-up Support – For better continuity of care, some telehealth platforms offer FREE follow-ups. Doctorsa allows you to message your doctor for up to 7 days after your visit, so you can get clarification or advice if your symptoms change.
Here are the most common diseases and health concerns that can be managed through online doctor services:
View the complete list of conditions treatable online.
How to Find a Primary Care Doctor Near Me Using Google Search or Maps
Looking for a doctor in Argentina while traveling doesn’t have to be stressful. With Google Search and Google Maps, you can quickly locate trusted clinics, hospitals, or private practitioners near you. Here’s how to do it right:
Using Google Search
- Search with the right keywords – Type phrases like “doctor near me in Argentina” or “general practitioner near me.” If you need a specialist, try terms like “dermatologist near me” or “pediatrician in Buenos Aires.”
- Add your location – Refine results by including your city or neighborhood (e.g., “doctor near me in Buenos Aires”, “medical services in Mendoza”).
- Check reviews carefully – Look for recent and consistent positive reviews. If you prefer an English-speaking doctor, scan for reviews written in English rather than those auto-translated by Google.
- Visit the clinic’s website – Confirm the doctor’s qualifications, services, and languages spoken.
- See how to book – Some clinics allow online appointment booking, while others may list a phone or WhatsApp number for direct contact.
Using Google Maps
- Open the app or browser – Turn on your location services for the most accurate nearby results.
- Use effective search terms – Try “doctor near me” or use Spanish terms like “médico cerca de mí” for more local listings.
- Compare your options – Toggle between map view and list view to check distance, hours, and availability.
- Read traveler reviews – Many tourists mention if the doctor or staff speaks English, which can save you a lot of guesswork.
- Check key details – Click on listings to view the address, hours, contact info, and website.
- Call ahead – Confirm availability, appointment procedures, and English support before heading there.
- Get directions easily – Use the Directions feature for quick navigation by foot, taxi, or public transport.
Using Argentina’s Public Healthcare Directories
If you’re in Argentina and want to find a general practitioner (GP) within the public healthcare system, you can check the Ministry of Health (Ministerio de Salud) website or the provincial health directories. These official sources list public hospitals and clinics across the country, and you can usually narrow your search by specialty and location. However, most listings are entirely in Spanish, and many lack information on whether the doctor speaks English, so it’s best to use Google Translate or your browser’s built-in translation tool to navigate them.
In 2025, Argentina announced immigration and public-service reforms, and several provinces began charging non-resident foreigners for care. Requirements can vary by province and hospital. Carry travel medical insurance and confirm locally before you go. This means that while emergency treatment at public hospitals remains free and legally guaranteed for tourists (for example, during life-threatening or urgent situations), other medical services such as non-urgent consultations, follow-ups, or prescription refills may require proof of valid travel insurance or advance payment. Emergency stabilization is available in public hospitals, but non-emergency services for tourists may be billed depending on location.
Some regions, including Salta Province and the City of Buenos Aires (CABA), have already started charging non-resident foreigners for using public hospitals. So before relying on “free public care,” it’s important to confirm whether your case qualifies as an emergency.
While Argentina’s public directories are useful for locating local clinics, they can be tricky for short-term visitors. They don’t show reviews, ratings, or language options, and phone numbers often require a local SIM card to book an appointment. Finding an English-speaking doctor with short-notice availability can take time and luck.
That’s where telemedicine services come in. Unlike public or local directories, platforms like Doctorsa carefully vet every doctor’s English proficiency through clinical and personal interviews. You can browse verified international reviews (via Trustpilot), see transparent pricing upfront, and book consultations using your regular phone number, no local account needed.
Ask Your Hotel Concierge or Airbnb Host for Doctor Recommendations
Hotel concierges and Airbnb hosts in Argentina are generally familiar with helping travelers find medical care; it’s one of the most common requests they receive from tourists. Whether you’re in Buenos Aires, Salta, or Mendoza, your host will often know a trusted family doctor, nearby clinic, or private hospital that past guests have used. In larger cities, there’s a good chance these doctors speak at least some English, which can make a stressful situation a bit easier.
However, take these recommendations with a grain of caution. Some hotels or hosts have preferred doctors who pay commissions or kickbacks, meaning the recommendations might not always reflect the most affordable or suitable option. Prices for house calls or private consultations can vary widely, so it’s best to ask for multiple options and confirm fees before booking. With Doctorsa, you see the price before booking, avoid kickbacks, and get prescriptions sent digitally within minutes.
Tips for Asking Your Concierge or Host for a Doctor:
- Be specific about your needs – Let them know if you need urgent care, a simple checkup, a prescription refill, or a specialist (like a dermatologist or allergist).
- Request several options – Ask for at least two or three clinics or doctors so you can compare locations, availability, and prices.
- Clarify fees upfront – Private clinics are usually the fastest route for tourists, but costs can differ. Confirm consultation fees, testing charges, and whether English-speaking services add to the price.
For a more transparent and convenient alternative, consider booking an online consultation through Doctorsa. You’ll see the price before committing, connect with English-speaking doctors, and even get digital prescriptions you can use at nearby pharmacies. In some cases, you can even request a doctor visit to your hotel, all without hidden charges or surprise fees.
English-Speaking Doctors in Argentina
Finding an English-speaking doctor in Argentina can be relatively hassle-free in major cities like Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Mendoza. This is where private clinics and international hospitals often advertise multilingual services. Some doctors in Argentina have trained in urban areas abroad, so it’s common that you can find specialists who can speak English fluently.
Do Doctors in Argentina Speak in English?
Yes, there are a lot of doctors in Argentina, especially in private clinics and large cities, who speak English. In urban centers, you’ll more likely find doctors and specialists who are comfortable in communicating with foreigners and tourists since most of their medical training is in English. Despite this, English proficiency may vary in public hospitals or smaller towns which can make communication more challenging.
For tourists, the most reliable option is often to choose telemedicine platforms where English-speaking support is usually guaranteed or private healthcare providers for urgent cases wherein face-to-face consultations are highly necessary.
Use Embassy Lists of Doctors in Argentina
Most embassies in Argentina, especially in Buenos Aires, maintain updated lists of English-speaking doctors and medical facilities that cater to foreign nationals. These lists are typically available on the embassy’s official website or upon request via email or phone.
PROs:
These doctors often have experience treating expats, diplomats, and international travelers. While not formally endorsed or vetted by the embassy, they’re generally trusted within the local English-speaking community and are familiar with foreign insurance and medical documentation.
CONs:
Availability can be limited, especially in busy cities or tourist seasons, making last-minute appointments difficult to secure. Fees aren’t listed upfront and may be higher than average. Embassy-listed doctors also tend to focus on specialized or in-person consultations rather than quick general care, making them less ideal for urgent or mild conditions.
For minor ailments, medication refills, or quick medical advice, telemedicine services like Doctorsa are a faster and more cost-effective choice. With transparent pricing, English-speaking doctors, and consultations available within minutes, it’s often the most convenient option for travelers in Argentina—no need to navigate local directories or wait days for an appointment.
Ask Local Expats Group
One of the most practical ways to find an English-speaking doctor in Argentina is to connect with local expat communities, groups, and forums. Expats who already live in the country have firsthand experience navigating Argentina’s healthcare system and often share personal recommendations for trusted clinics, hospitals, or doctors who regularly see foreigners.
That said, it’s wise to approach expat recommendations with a bit of caution. Some online communities may feature sponsored posts or biased referrals, and expats often have different access and expectations; many can use Argentina’s public healthcare system, while tourists generally cannot. Their advice is helpful for finding a regular doctor but may not always suit urgent or short-term medical needs.
You can connect with these communities through:
- Facebook Groups – Active groups such as Expats in Buenos Aires, Expats in Argentina, and Foreigners in Mendoza often discuss healthcare options and share names of English-speaking doctors.
- WhatsApp & Telegram Chats – In major cities like Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Patagonia, expat chat groups quickly respond to questions and share reliable doctor or clinic contacts.
- Online Forums & Reddit – Subreddits like r/argentina and travel-focused forums provide up-to-date advice from foreigners who have recently sought medical care.
- Expat Blogs & Guides – Websites such as Argentina Expat and Expatriate Healthcare regularly post health-related tips and listings for providers who cater to international visitors.
This approach is especially useful if:
- You’re staying in Argentina long-term and want a doctor you can rely on.
- You’re based outside major cities, where English-speaking providers may be harder to find.
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You prefer insider knowledge such as which clinics offer telemedicine, fair pricing, or shorter wait times.
✅ PRO TIP: Always ask these key questions: Does the doctor speak English, accept tourists, or provide digital prescriptions? The expat community in Argentina is active, welcoming, and a great resource for navigating healthcare without unnecessary stress.
Urgent Care in Argentina
Tourists in Argentina with non-life-threatening issues often wonder where to turn: public hospital emergency rooms, private clinics, telemedicine, or “walk-in” services. There is a mix of options depending on your location, how serious your issue is, and whether or not you’re willing to pay or covered by insurance.
Is urgent care a thing in Argentina?
Argentina doesn’t have a formal “urgent care clinic” network exactly like in some other countries, but there are alternatives that work similarly:
- Public Hospital Emergency Departments – Public hospitals handle both emergencies and non-urgent cases. Non-urgent cases may face long waits though.
- Private Clinics & Specialists – For urgent but non-critical issues, such as moderate infections, injuries, or acute symptoms, private clinics can act faster, are more comfortable, and more likely to offer English-speaking doctors. Just be prepared to pay upfront, since these clinics typically expect direct payment or insurance.
- Telemedicine & Online Consultations – There’s a quick growth of telemedicine services in Argentina. Many health plans, private insurers, and digital platforms offer video or tele consultations for non-severe issues, such as colds, skin problems, digestive issues, etc. The benefit here is that you can often get care from wherever you are without visiting a hospital or clinic physically. You can also get a digital prescription that you can use in pharmacies nationwide.
Why Online Doctor Consultations Are a Better Option for Minor or Urgent Cases
While visiting a walk-in clinic or private hospital in Argentina is always possible, online doctor consultations (telemedicine) are often the faster, simpler, and more affordable choice especially for minor or non-emergency conditions such as sore throats, infections (e.g. UTI), allergies, or prescription refills.
With platforms like Doctorsa, you can speak to a licensed doctor in minutes, receive digital prescriptions, and get care in English, all without leaving your accommodation. For travelers and digital nomads, this option saves time, reduces uncertainty, and offers transparent pricing upfront.
Compared to traditional clinics, telehealth eliminates the stress of navigating language barriers, transportation, or unpredictable fees, making it the most convenient way to get care when you’re abroad.
Pros & Cons of Walk-in Clinics for Tourists
PROs |
CONs |
Convenience: Private clinics can save you from travel, language issues, and long waits. |
Cost: Private care is more expensive; you generally pay out of pocket. |
Language: More likely to find English-speaking doctors in big cities and private facilities. |
Uneven access: Outside Buenos Aires or other large cities, quality, speed, and English fluency drop. |
Emergency safety net: Public emergency departments must serve everyone in real emergencies. |
Wait times: For non-urgent cases in public facilities, waiting can be long. |
💡 The bottomline: For most minor or urgent medical issues, online doctor consultations are typically the most efficient and traveler-friendly solution in Argentina. You’ll save valuable time, avoid the language barrier, and get transparent, professional care which is often for a fraction of the cost of private clinics.
Prescriptions in Argentina
In Argentina, most medications, especially antibiotics and controlled substances, require a doctor’s prescription. While some over-the-counter (OTC) medicines like pain relievers, antacids, or cold remedies are widely available in pharmacies (farmacias), the rules for prescription drugs are strictly enforced. Tourists should be aware that not all medications sold under familiar brand names abroad are available locally, and substitutes may be used instead.
How To Get a Prescription in Argentina
Getting a prescription may feel unfamiliar for tourists visiting Argentina. But the process is quite simple once you know the steps. Since medications such as antibiotics and stronger painkillers can’t be purchased without a prescription, you’ll have to consult a licensed doctor before heading to the pharmacy. You should take note that controlled substances can only be purchased with prescriptions that are obtained from in-person doctor consultations. Take note that controlled substances cannot be prescribed via online consultations.
The good news is that many private clinics, hospitals in major cities, and even telemedicine platforms cater to foreign tourists as they offer English-speaking support, especially if you need prescription refills and doctor’s prescription for minor ailments. By understanding the system in advance, you can avoid stress, save time, and ensure that you have the right medication during your stay in Argentina.
Here are the steps to get a prescription as a tourist in Argentina:
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See a Licensed Doctor – Since you need to consult a doctor first before receiving a prescription, you can do this through private clinics, public hospitals, or telemedicine. Private clinics are usually faster and more tourist-friendly while public hospitals may involve longer wait times and limited English.
- Bring Documentation – If you’re already on medication, it’s best to bring your original prescription, its packaging, and/or a doctor’s note from home. This helps Argentine doctors match your treatment, confirm the correct dosage, and identify the local equivalent if the brand name differs.
- Get the Prescription – The doctor will provide a paper or electronic/digital prescription. Just make sure that the prescription clearly states the medication name, dosage, and the doctor’s signature or seal.
- Go to a Pharmacy (“Farmacia”) – You can now take your prescription to any licensed pharmacy. Pharmacies in Argentina are easy to find in both big cities and smaller towns. Pharmacists in Argentina are generally helpful and can explain how to take your medication
- Check Validity and Quantity – Prescriptions for short-term treatments (like antibiotics) must usually be filled quickly, often within a week. On the other hand, for long-term conditions (like hypertension or diabetes), doctors usually prescribe only what you’ll be needing during your stay as a tourist in Argentina.
💡 Pro Tip: Use Telemedicine for Fast, Tourist-Friendly Prescriptions
For most non-urgent cases, telemedicine is the easiest and fastest way to get a prescription in Argentina. With platforms like Doctorsa, you can consult an English-speaking doctor online, get a valid digital prescription, and pick up your medication from any nearby pharmacy. This is especially useful for prescription refills or mild conditions that don’t require in-person care.
⚠️ Note: Controlled substances (like opioids or strong sedatives) cannot be prescribed online. These medications require an in-person consultation with a doctor and additional documentation under Argentine law.
Online prescription refills in Argentina
Getting a prescription refill in Argentina can feel a little different from what many travelers are used to. The country does not yet have a fully integrated nationwide e-prescription system, which means most prescriptions are still paper-based and must be signed by a local, licensed doctor. However, that doesn’t mean you have to spend half a day sitting in a waiting room. Thanks to the growing reach of telemedicine platforms, especially in major cities like Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and Córdoba, tourists can now get online consultations and valid prescriptions without visiting a clinic in person.
Advantages of Online Prescription for Tourists
- Convenient – You can book a video consultation from your hotel or Airbnb, avoiding long queues in the public healthcare system.
- Affordable – Prices typically start around $20 and vary by provider; consultation fee includes issuing a digital prescription.
- Tourist-Friendly – Many private telemedicine providers offer services in English, saving you from the language barrier.
- Faster Access – Instead of navigating the local clinics, you can get your prescription from a licensed Argentine doctor online and pick it up at a nearby pharmacy.
- Insurance Support – Keeping your receipts makes it easier to claim reimbursements from your travel insurance.
Step-by-Step: Getting a Prescription Refill Online in Argentina
- Book a Telemedicine Appointment – Choose a licensed doctor via a telemedicine platform such as Doctorsa. Prepare your passport, medication, or previous prescription.
- Do the Video Consultation – Explain your condition, current dosage, and allergies (if there’s any). The doctor will decide if a refill is appropriate and issue you a signed prescription.
- Receive Your Prescription – Usually, you’ll receive a scanned or digital copy of your prescription via email. Some doctors can also send the signed prescription directly to your chosen pharmacy.
- Go to a Pharmacy (“Farmacia”) – Present your prescription along with your passport or ID. Some pharmacies may require the original signed version for certain medications, especially for antibiotics or controlled substances.
- Pick Up Your Medicine – If the brand of your medication isn’t available, the pharmacist may offer a generic equivalent. Keep your receipt just in case you need to file an insurance claim.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Antibiotics & Controlled Drugs – These require a valid prescription under Argentine law. Drugs like opioids, sedatives, or strong painkillers cannot be refilled online; you’ll need an in-person evaluation. Pharmacies may require original signed prescriptions for certain categories.
- Short-Term Refills Only – Online doctors typically prescribe enough medication to cover the remainder of your trip, not long-term supplies, so it’s best to acquire these through online doctor consultations.
- Pharmacy Access – Pharmacies are widespread in cities, but smaller towns may have limited opening hours.
How to Get Antibiotics in Argentina
In Argentina, similar to most countries, pharmacies cannot legally dispense antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription. This means tourists need to consult a licensed Argentine doctor (either in a private clinic, hospital, or through a telemedicine platform) to access them. During the consultation, your doctor will review your symptoms (e.g. fever, throat infection, other signs of bacterial illness) and determine whether or not antibiotics are necessary.
Once prescribed, you’ll usually receive a signed paper prescription. Telemedicine providers, on the other hand, usually send you a digital copy of your prescription. Pharmacies across Argentina stock common antibiotics, though brand names may differ, so it’s better to bring your old packaging or doctor’s note from home to help pharmacists to confirm equivalent local medication.
How to Get an Emergency Prescription in Argentina
If you suddenly run out of your prescription medication while traveling in Argentina, don’t panic, help is usually just a few clicks away! The fastest and most convenient way to handle this situation is through telemedicine, especially if your condition isn’t life-threatening.
Services like Doctorsa can connect you with a licensed Argentine doctor online within minutes, even outside regular clinic hours. During the video consultation, the doctor can evaluate your situation, verify your medication, and issue a valid prescription that can be sent directly to your email or a nearby pharmacy. This option saves time, avoids long queues, and helps you stay on track with your treatment while traveling.
What to Do If You Need an Emergency Prescription
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Book a Telemedicine Consultation (Best Option for Tourists) – For most non-urgent cases, like running out of blood pressure medication, thyroid pills, or antibiotics, telemedicine is the quickest route. This is the best option if you’re avoiding commuting, especially if you’re in foreign place just to get a prescription.
* Physicians (via telemedicine) can assess your needs and issue an electronic or printable prescription within minutes.
* You’ll see upfront pricing and can use your regular phone number or email to book.
* Once issued, simply show the prescription at any local pharmacy to buy your medication.
* NOTE: Prescription refills that don’t require physical examination—such as most maintenance drugs—are best handled online. Controlled medications (like opioids or certain sedatives) still require an in-person visit.
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Visit a Hospital ER or Private Clinic (If Telemedicine Isn’t an Option) – Public hospitals in Argentina are open 24/7 and legally required to provide emergency care, but you may face long wait times and limited English support. Private clinics and hospitals are faster and often more foreigner-friendly, though consultation fees can be significantly higher. If it’s really necessary to go in-person, bring your passport or ID and proof of your medication such as the packaging, old prescription, or a doctor’s note from your home country.
- Go to a Pharmacy – Once you have your prescription, present it at a nearby pharmacy. Pharmacists may suggest generic counterparts if your brand isn’t available. Always remember to keep your receipt (“nota fiscal”) in case of travel insurance reimbursements or follow-up care.
Why Telemedicine Is the Smarter First Step
While Argentina’s public hospitals and private clinics can handle emergencies, online consultations are far more efficient for mild or urgent-but-stable needs. You’ll save valuable time, avoid unnecessary exposure in crowded waiting areas, and receive expert care in English—all from your phone or laptop.
With Doctorsa, your prescription arrives within minutes, ready to be used at any pharmacy nationwide. For travelers, it’s not just the faster option—it’s the smarter one.
Common Conditions Tourists Experience in Argentina
Traveling in Argentina is generally safe and enjoyable, but like anywhere else, health issues can still pop up during your trip. Tourists often face sunburn, insect bites (especially from mosquitoes in the northern regions), dehydration, or food-related stomach troubles. In busier cities like Buenos Aires, respiratory infections or seasonal colds are also fairly common, while long road trips and outdoor adventures sometimes lead to minor injuries or muscle strains.
Visitors may also need care for urinary tract infections (UTIs), unexpected allergic reactions, or a prescription refill if they run out of their regular medication. Thankfully, these conditions are usually straightforward to treat: local doctors, private clinics, and pharmacies are well-equipped to help tourists, and telemedicine services make access even easier if you’d rather consult in English from your hotel or Airbnb.
Sunburn and Heat-Related Issues
Argentina’s diverse climate means tourists can encounter strong sun exposure, especially in summer (December to February) or when visiting northern regions like Salta, Mendoza, or Iguazú. Sunburn, heat exhaustion, and dehydration are common among unprepared travelers. Protection with sunscreen, hats, and frequent hydration is essential, but if you do get burned or overheated, pharmacies and local doctors can provide creams and rehydration solutions.
Traveler’s Diarrhea and Stomach Bugs
One of the most frequent health issues for tourists in Argentina is stomach trouble, often caused by a sudden change in diet, new bacteria in food or water, or simply overindulging in local specialties like empanadas and asado. Symptoms usually include diarrhea, cramps, and mild dehydration. While most cases resolve on their own with fluids and rest, pharmacies stock over-the-counter remedies, and a doctor can prescribe stronger medications if needed.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs are a common and uncomfortable condition travelers—especially women—may face during their trip. Symptoms like burning during urination or increased frequency require prompt attention, as antibiotics are the standard treatment and these are only available with a doctor’s prescription in Argentina. Fortunately, tourists can easily consult a doctor in person or online and then collect their prescribed antibiotics from a local pharmacy.
Respiratory Infections & Seasonal Colds
Changes in climate, crowded city environments like Buenos Aires, and long-distance travel can expose tourists to respiratory infections. Colds, flu, or bronchitis are among the most common complaints, especially during Argentina’s winter (June to August). Pharmacies provide plenty of over-the-counter relief, but if symptoms worsen or linger, a doctor’s visit may be needed for prescription-strength medication.
Mosquito-Borne Illnesses (Dengue & Others)
In northern Argentina, especially in tropical and subtropical zones, mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever are a growing concern during warmer months. Tourists should take preventive measures like using repellent and wearing long sleeves. If symptoms such as fever, joint pain, rash, or fatigue appear, it’s important to seek medical care promptly, as these conditions require professional evaluation and monitoring.
Online Medical Services in Argentina
Accessing healthcare in Argentina as a tourist is now much simpler, thanks to the rise of online medical services. Whether you’re in Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Bariloche, or exploring Patagonia, you can easily book virtual consultations with licensed Argentine doctors who are familiar with helping international travelers. Get medical advice, prescriptions, and follow-up care online, without navigating long waits or language barriers.
Explore local medical options below:
Medical Services in Buenos Aires
Medical Services in Bariloche
Medical Services in Mendoza
Medical Services in El Calafate
Medical Services in Puerto Iguazu
Medical Services in Ushuaia
Medical Services in Cordoba
Medical Services in Salta
Medical Services in Mar Del Plata
Medical Services in San Martin De Los Andes
Medical Services in Puerto Madryn
Medical Services in Villa La Angostura
Medical Services in Rosario
Medical Services in Neuquen
Medical Services in Tilcara
Medical Services in Cafayate
Medical Services in Tigre
Medical Services in Tandil
Medical Services in La Cumbrecita
Medical Services in Villa General Belgrano
Emergency Help in Argentina
We get it, figuring out what counts as an emergency and how to get care quickly in a foreign country can be stressful. In Argentina, tourists can access public hospitals for urgent stabilization. Billing for non-residents and non-emergency services varies by province and facility. That’s why many travelers rely on private clinics or telemedicine services for urgent needs, where care is usually faster and more straightforward.
Knowing when to call emergency services, when to head straight to a hospital, or when an online doctor visit is enough can save you valuable time, money, and peace of mind during your trip to Argentina.
The section below breaks down the most common questions travelers have about emergencies in Argentina, from sudden infections to urgent prescription refills and hospital visits.
Emergency Contact Numbers in Argentina
In case of emergency, keep these essential numbers handy while traveling in Argentina:
911 – General Emergency Services: The nationwide number for police, fire, and medical emergencies. Operators may not always speak English, so be prepared to state your location clearly.
107 – Medical Emergencies & Ambulance: Connects you directly to SAME (Sistema de Atención Médica de Emergencias) in Buenos Aires and similar services in other provinces. Use this for urgent medical problems like accidents, severe illness, or chest pain.
100 – Fire Department: Call for building fires, wildfires, or rescue situations.
101 – Police: For reporting crimes, theft, accidents, or requesting law enforcement assistance.
103 – Civil Defense / Civil Protection: Provides help during natural disasters, severe weather events, or large-scale emergencies.
106 – Coast Guard (Prefectura Naval Argentina): For maritime emergencies on rivers, lakes, or coastal areas. Essential if you’re taking ferries or boating.
0800-333-47225 – Tourist Assistance Centers (Buenos Aires): Offers support in English, Portuguese, and Spanish for visitors dealing with theft, emergencies, or needing guidance.
Understanding Emergencies in Argentina
Not every health issue requires an ER visit. Here’s what you need to know:
- What is an emergency?- Situations count as emergencies if they are life-threatening or require immediate care such as chest pain, breathing difficulties, heavy bleeding, severe allergic reactions, high fever that won’t go down, or serious accidents. In these cases, call 911 (general emergency line) or 107 (direct line for medical emergencies and ambulances).
- How long should I try before seeing a doctor? – Minor issues like mild food poisoning, stomach discomfort, insect bites, or dehydration can often be managed with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medication. If symptoms don’t improve in a day or two, or if they worsen, seek medical advice. Many travelers prefer private clinics or telemedicine consultations, where it’s easier to find English-speaking doctors and faster service compared to the public system.
- What happens if I have a medical emergency and need a hospital? – Ambulances can take you to the nearest public or private hospital. Public hospitals are legally required to treat emergencies, but expect longer waits and fewer English-speaking staff. Private hospitals, especially in Buenos Aires and other large cities, generally provide faster service and a higher level of comfort. But you’ll need to pay upfront or show proof of travel insurance. Always carry your passport and insurance details, as hospitals will ask for them upon admission.
Avoid Using Emergency Services for Non-Life Threatening Situations
Argentina’s public hospitals are often crowded, and emergency rooms can have long wait times. Using them for minor conditions adds stress to the system and delays care for patients in real danger. Here’s why tourists should avoid ER visits unless absolutely necessary:
- Longer wait times: ERs in public hospitals are often overwhelmed, especially in big cities.
- Unexpected costs: Tourists are billed for hospital services. For minor issues, private clinics or online consultations are usually quicker and less expensive.
- Better alternatives exist: Conditions like mild infections, UTIs, or prescription refills can usually be handled by a doctor visit, a private clinic, or telemedicine.
- Keeps resources free: By reserving ER visits for real emergencies, you help ensure that critical patients (e.g., heart attacks, accidents) get care quickly.
Are Emergency Services Free in Argentina?
No. While emergency care in public hospitals is free for Argentine citizens and residents, tourists are charged for treatment. Private hospitals always require payment upfront unless you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, in which case you can claim reimbursement later.
Seeing a Doctor in Argentina
It’s important to understand what doctor visits are like in Argentina, no matter what your concern is. Whether you need a quick check-up, treatment for minor illnesses, or a refill for your prescription meds, it helps to be knowledgeable about the system. Tourists have the following options: public hospitals, private clinics, or telemedicine services. Each of these have their own different advantages in terms of cost, convenience, and language accessibility.
In this section, we’ll walk you through what to expect when seeing a doctor in Argentina, how much it typically costs, and whether any services are available to travelers at little or no charge.
Typically, doctor visits in Argentina are straightforward. But it still depends on whether you choose public or private care:
Private Clinics & Hospitals |
Public Hospitals |
Telemedicine Services |
|
Preferred option for some tourists Shorter wait times, modern facilities More likely to have English-speaking staff Visits are usually paid out-of-pocket unless you have international travel insurance that covers Argentina Costs are still relatively affordable compared to North America or Europe |
Emergency services are legally open to everyone, including foreigners For non-urgent care, you may face long wait times and crowded facilities Limited English-speaking staff Tourists are still generally charged for consultations and treatments |
Allows you to consult with a doctor online from the comfort of your hotel or Airbnb Platforms like Doctorsa offer multilingual doctors who speak with international travelers smoothly Offer consultations in minutes and provide digital prescriptions you can bring directly to any pharmacy nationwide Faster and more convenient than navigating the public system |
Is Healthcare Free in Argentina?
emergencies, you’ll usually need to pay for consultations, tests, or medications if you’re not a local resident. That’s why having travel insurance is highly recommended.
If you visit a private clinic, expect to pay around USD $30–$60 for a general doctor, with specialists costing more. Telemedicine is another option, usually USD $20–$40, and can be convenient for quick consultations or prescription refills. Public hospitals may cost less, but waits are longer and English-speaking staff are less common. Furthermore, prices vary by city and facility; private clinics usually require upfront payment.
Always bring your passport and insurance details when seeking care.
Conclusion
In Argentina, tourists can access care at both public hospitals and private clinics, but private and telemedicine services are usually faster and more tourist-friendly. Carry your passport and travel insurance details, and you’ll be well-prepared for any health needs during your trip
Get immediate care with an online doctor appointment
If you need immediate medical care and a quick prescription that you no longer have to go to a hospital or clinic physically, book a consultation through an online doctor. This can be done through Doctorsa.
Here’s your quick guide on how to book a consultation online:
- Fill out a quick intake form. Select the type of appointment you want to book: urgent care, same-day appointment, or prescription refill. Choose whether you are booking the medical appointment for you, your child, or for someone else.
- Choose a doctor. Doctors show their appointment time and options. Here, you’ll be able to compare prices, see reviews, and choose what works best for you. Pay online with credit card or with your insurance.
- Connect with your doctor. Video consultations are available 24/7, even just minutes after scheduling or booking. Prescriptions will be sent to you via email. You can also contact your doctor with follow-up questions within 7 days, for FREE!
In just three easy steps, you can get the professional doctor advice you need online, in just a few minutes, for as low as $20!
