In this article, we will be taking a look at 5 healthiest countries in Latin America. If you want to see our detailed analysis on health market, visit 15 Healthiest Countries In Latin America.
5. Argentina
Insider Monkey Score: 5.5
Argentina has made notable progress towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC), with an essential coverage index of around 76-77% for healthcare services. Despite this progress, financial protection remains a challenge, as out-of-pocket health expenditures are still significant, accounting for less than 25% of household expenditures. In 2021, Argentina allocated 10% of its GDP to health spending, ranking it among the highest in Latin America and the Caribbean.
4. Cuba
Insider Monkey Score: 5
Cuba’s healthcare system is characterized by its universal coverage and a strong emphasis on preventive care. The country spends about $1 billion annually to subsidize food rations, which are part of its broader strategy to ensure the nutritional health of its population. Cuba also has one of the lowest infant mortality rates in Latin America, but obesity is a concern with 33.1% of adult women and 21.8% of adult men in Cuba living with obesity.
3. Uruguay
Insider Monkey Score: 3.5
Uruguay has been proactive in addressing various health challenges, particularly in nutrition and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The country has made strides in maternal and child health, with a notable breastfeeding rate of 57.7% for infants aged 0 to 5 months. Additionally, Uruguay’s life expectancy is relatively high, with men living up to 74 years and women up to 81 years. However, challenges remain, such as a high prevalence of obesity and diabetes among adults, with 33.3% of women and 27.7% of men being obese, which is above the regional average.
2. Chile
Insider Monkey Score: 3.5
Chile’s health market is characterized by a mix of public and private healthcare services. The public system, known as FONASA, provides coverage to about 75% of the population, while the private system, ISAPRE, covers the remaining 25%. The country has a high life expectancy of around 80 years and low infant mortality rates comparable to those in developed countries. however, Chile faces challenges such as a high prevalence of obesity, affecting 34% of the population, and a significant rate of tobacco use, which is the highest in Latin America.
1. Costa Rica
Insider Monkey Score: 1.5
Costa Rica stands among the healthiest country in Latin America. The country is home to one of the five original Blue Zones, the Nicoya Peninsula, known for its high number of centenarians in excellent health. In 2021, Costa Rica spent 8% of its GDP on health, up from 7% in 2019, maintaining a stable range of 7% to 8%.
To learn about other healthy countries in Latin America, visit 15 Healthiest Countries In Latin America.
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