Healthcare and health insurance in Aberdeen

The NHS Grampian, an affiliate of the Scottish National Health Services (NHS), is the main provider of healthcare in Aberdeen. Healthcare in Aberdeen is excellent, with the NHS offering pioneering treatments. While most expats in Aberdeen use public healthcare, those who can afford it opt for the private sector to skip long waiting times.

To receive treatment under the national system, expats must register with a local general practitioner. GPs are the first port of call for non-emergency medical concerns. In the public system, appointments with specialists can only be made via referral from a GP.

The downside of public healthcare in Aberdeen is that patients often face long waiting lists for treatment. Waiting times at private hospitals are much shorter, but they can be extremely pricey. For this reason, expats wanting to use private medical treatment are advised to invest in medical insurance to cover the costs.

Below is a selection of recommended public and private hospitals in Aberdeen.

Public hospitals in Aberdeen

Aberdeen Royal Infirmary

Website: www.nhsgrampian.org
Address: Foresterhill Rd, Aberdeen AB25 2ZN

Aberdeen Maternity Hospital

Website: www.nhsgrampian.org
Address: Cornhill Rd, Aberdeen AB25 2ZL

Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital

Website: www.rach.scot.nhs.uk
Address: Westburn Rd, Aberdeen AB25 2ZG

Private hospitals in Aberdeen

Albyn Hospital

Website: www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk
Address: 21–24 Albyn Pl, Aberdeen AB10 1RW

What do expats say about their experiences with healthcare in Aberdeen?
"I don’t think healthcare here has as good standards as what I’ve been used to in Canada. The NHS seems to offer the bare minimum treatment for both health and dental care, and it seems as though there’s not enough time spent on patients; the doctor’s appointments I’ve had in the past have only been for no longer than 15 minutes each time. If you want better care, you’re forced to go with the private option, which means having to pay."
Learn more about healthcare and life in Scotland in our interview with Canadian expat Danielle.

Are you an expat living in Aberdeen?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Aberdeen. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.