The healthcare system in Diego Martin is a mix of public and private facilities. The public healthcare system is government-funded and free for all citizens, while the private healthcare system is fee-based and often used by those who can afford it or have private health insurance.
Trinidad & Tobago’s Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in Trinidad & Tobago is known as the Regional Health Authorities (RHAs). The RHAs are autonomous bodies that own and operate health facilities in their respective regions. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system, but it is not typically recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgeries due to long wait times and limited resources. Public hospitals in Diego Martin, like the St. James Medical Complex, are often crowded and understaffed. On the other hand, private hospitals, such as the West Shore Medical Private Hospital, offer more personalized care and shorter wait times. Expats primarily use private hospitals and it is recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. Private hospitals in Diego Martin are well-equipped and staffed with highly trained medical professionals.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Diego Martin
- St. James Medical Complex (Public) – Located in St. James, approximately 15 minutes by car from Diego Martin.
- West Shore Medical Private Hospital (Private) – Located in Cocorite, approximately 20 minutes by car from Diego Martin.
- Diego Martin Health Centre (Public) – Located in Diego Martin.
Emergency Services in Diego Martin
There are ambulance services in Diego Martin. In case of an emergency, you can call 811 for an ambulance. However, response times can vary and there may be delays due to traffic or high demand for services.
Health Insurance Companies in Diego Martin
Popular private health insurers in Diego Martin include Sagicor and Guardian Life. Sagicor offers a range of health insurance plans with varying levels of coverage, while Guardian Life offers comprehensive health insurance plans that include coverage for hospitalization, surgery, and outpatient care. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers.
