Latvia has emerged as a hidden gem in European healthcare, combining advanced Northern European medical technology with significantly more affordable costs than its Western neighbors. Whether you are an expat living in Riga or a medical tourist looking for world-class orthopedic or aesthetic surgery, the Latvian healthcare system offers several standout institutions.
Here is a curated list of the top 10 hospitals and clinics in Latvia, categorized by their specialties and reputations for 2025.
1. Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital (Riga)
As the primary referral hospital in the country, “Stradiņš” is the backbone of Latvian medicine. It is a leading center for cardiology, heart surgery, and internal medicine.
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Best for: Complex surgeries, organ transplants, and advanced research-driven treatments.
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Key Feature: It houses some of the most experienced specialists in the Baltic region.
2. Riga East Clinical University Hospital (Riga)
Commonly known as “Gaiļezers,” this is the largest medical institution in Latvia. It includes several specialized centers, such as the Latvian Oncology Center.
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Best for: Oncology, microsurgery, and emergency trauma care.
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Key Feature: It is the primary facility for comprehensive cancer treatment and rehabilitation in Latvia.
3. Children’s Clinical University Hospital (Riga)
For pediatric care, this hospital is unmatched. It provides a full spectrum of services for children, from neonatal care to adolescent mental health.
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Best for: Pediatrics, pediatric surgery, and rare childhood diseases.
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Key Feature: Known for its family-friendly environment and English-speaking staff.
4. AIWA Clinic (Riga)
A premier private hospital designed on the concept of “boutique” healthcare. AIWA Clinic offers a wide range of diagnostics and surgeries in a comfortable, hotel-like setting.
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Best for: General surgery, ophthalmology, and luxury diagnostics.
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Key Feature: High patient satisfaction scores and a streamlined process for international patients.
5. ORTO Clinic (Riga)
If you are looking for sports medicine or joint replacement, ORTO is widely considered the best in the Baltics. Many professional athletes from across Europe travel here for treatment.
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Best for: Orthopedics, traumatology, and physical therapy.
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Key Feature: Specializes in minimally invasive spine and joint surgeries.
6. Health Center 4 / Capital Clinic Riga
While technically a private medical group, Health Center 4 operates some of the most advanced clinics in the country. Their “Capital Clinic” branch is a favorite for expats and diplomats.
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Best for: High-end diagnostics (Check-ups), dermatology, and phlebology (vein health).
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Key Feature: The Baltic Vein Clinic within this group is a European leader in laser vein treatments.
7. Jurmala Hospital (Jurmala)
Located in the seaside resort town of Jurmala, this hospital offers a calm environment perfect for recovery. It has gained international fame for its bariatric (weight loss) surgery department.
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Best for: Gastric bypass, sleeve surgery, and maternity care.
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Key Feature: Affordable, high-quality weight loss packages for medical tourists.
8. ARS Medical Centre (Riga)
One of the oldest and most respected private medical facilities in Latvia. ARS is often the first choice for residents seeking quick access to specialists and high-quality imaging.
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Best for: MRI/CT diagnostics, lithotripsy (kidney stones), and gynecology.
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Key Feature: Located in the heart of Riga with modern equipment that often exceeds public hospital standards.
9. Riga Maternity Hospital (Riga)
The largest and most modern obstetrics facility in the country. Almost one-third of all Latvian babies are born here.
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Best for: Childbirth, prenatal care, and postnatal support.
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Key Feature: Modern delivery rooms and specialized care for high-risk pregnancies.
10. Sigulda Hospital (Sigulda)
Though smaller than the Riga giants, Sigulda Hospital has carved out a niche as a center of excellence for stereotactic radiosurgery (CyberKnife) and bariatrics.
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Best for: Non-invasive tumor treatments and weight loss surgery.
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Key Feature: Home to the CyberKnife Center, which attracts patients globally for specialized cancer treatment.
Comparison of Top Latvian Medical Facilities
| Hospital/Clinic | Sector | Primary Specialty |
| Pauls Stradiņš | Public | Cardiology & Transplants |
| ORTO Clinic | Private | Orthopedics & Sports Medicine |
| AIWA Clinic | Private | General Surgery & Eye Care |
| Jurmala Hospital | Public/Private | Bariatrics & Maternity |
| Sigulda Hospital | Public | Oncology (CyberKnife) |
Why Choose Latvia for Healthcare?
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Modern Tech: Latvian clinics use the same diagnostic equipment found in the US or Germany.
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No Wait Times: Private clinics like AIWA and ARS offer appointments within days, compared to months in many Western countries.
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Language: Most doctors and specialists in Riga speak fluent English and Russian.
