As a foreigner living in Santiago, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"As a foreigner living in Santiago, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Chile is known as FONASA (Fondo Nacional de Salud), which provides coverage to a large portion of the population, including foreigners with a valid residence permit. However, it is important to note that public healthcare in Chile can be crowded, with long waiting times for appointments and treatments. The quality of care may also vary depending on the location and availability of resources. Many foreigners and locals opt for private healthcare, which offers better facilities and shorter waiting times, but at a higher cost. It is recommended to have private health insurance to cover these expenses," explained one expat living in Santiago, Chile.