La Romana, a city in the Dominican Republic, has a healthcare system that consists of both public and private facilities. The quality of care varies between these facilities, with private hospitals generally offering better services and amenities.
Dominican Rep’s Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in the Dominican Republic is called the Servicio Nacional de Salud (SNS). It is available to both locals and foreigners, including expats and digital nomads. However, public hospitals in La Romana are not typically recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgeries due to limited resources and long wait times. Public hospitals in La Romana may also lack the same level of cleanliness and comfort as private facilities. Expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system, but they often choose to use private hospitals for better quality care. Private hospitals are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, as they offer more advanced facilities and services.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in La Romana
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in La Romana include:
- Centro Médico Central Romana (private) – located in the Central Romana complex
- Clínica de Familia La Romana (private) – located on Avenida Santa Rosa
- Hospital El Buen Samaritano (private) – located on Avenida Padre Abreu
If there are no suitable hospitals in La Romana for a specific medical need, expats may need to travel to Santo Domingo, the capital city, which is approximately 1.5 hours away by car. Santo Domingo has a larger selection of hospitals and specialized medical facilities.
Emergency Services in La Romana
There are ambulance services in La Romana, but their response times may vary. To call for an ambulance, dial 911. It is important to note that there may be delays in response times, especially in more remote areas of the city.
Health Insurance Companies in La Romana
Popular private health insurance companies in La Romana include ARS Humano, ARS Universal, and ARS Palic. These companies offer various plans and coverage options for individuals and families. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers, depending on their needs and preferences.
