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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Brit. Virgin Isl. | Expat Exchange
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15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in the British Virgin Islands

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 07, 2024

Summary: The quality of medical care in the British Virgin Islands is generally considered to be good, though it may not be as advanced as in the United States. Emergency services are available and can be accessed by calling 911. Ambulance services are also available and can be called by dialing 999.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

How are healthcare services the British Virgin Islands?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in the British Virgin Islands, they replied:

"The British Virgin Islands offers a range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and Social Development, and is funded by the government. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a range of services available. Foreign residents do have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in the British Virgin Islands can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. They may also need to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," wrote one expat.

What are medical services in the British Virgin Islands like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in the British Virgin Islands, they replied:

"The British Virgin Islands offers a range of medical services to its citizens and visitors. The main hospital is the Peebles Hospital on Tortola, which provides a range of services including emergency care, general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, and pediatrics. There are also several private clinics and medical centers located throughout the islands, offering a variety of services such as general practice, family medicine, and specialist care. Additionally, there are several pharmacies located throughout the islands, providing access to a range of medications," mentioned one expat in Brit. Virgin Isl..

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in the British Virgin Islands?

"Healthcare and health insurance in the British Virgin Islands can be expensive. The cost of medical care is higher than in many other countries, and health insurance premiums can be costly. The cost of medical care is also affected by the limited availability of medical services in the British Virgin Islands. Additionally, the cost of health insurance is affected by the limited number of insurance providers in the British Virgin Islands," wrote one expat.

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What are emergency services like in the British Virgin Islands?

When we asked about emergency services, members in the British Virgin Islands wrote:

"Emergency services in the British Virgin Islands are provided by the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF). In the event of an emergency, the public can call 911 to request an ambulance. The RVIPF will dispatch an ambulance to the scene as soon as possible. The RVIPF also provides fire and rescue services, as well as search and rescue operations. In addition, the RVIPF has a marine unit that provides assistance to vessels in distress," said an expat in Brit. Virgin Isl..

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The British Virgin Islands has a wide selection of medical specialists located in its major cities and towns. Road Town, the capital of the British Virgin Islands, is home to a number of medical specialists, including general practitioners, dentists, and optometrists. Other cities and towns such as Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Anegada also have a selection of medical specialists, including specialists in cardiology, orthopedics, and neurology. Additionally, the British Virgin Islands has a number of medical centers and clinics located throughout the islands, providing access to a variety of medical specialists," said one expat living in Brit. Virgin Isl..

Are common prescription medications available in the British Virgin Islands?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in the British Virgin Islands. Most pharmacies in the British Virgin Islands carry a wide range of prescription medications, including antibiotics, pain relievers, and other medications. In addition, many pharmacies offer online ordering and delivery services, making it easy to get the medications you need," said one expat living in Brit. Virgin Isl..

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in the British Virgin Islands?

"The British Virgin Islands offers a range of medical facilities and medical care. The main hospital is the Peebles Hospital on Tortola, which provides a range of services including emergency care, general surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, and pediatrics. There are also several private clinics and medical centers located throughout the islands, offering a range of services including general practice, family medicine, and specialist care. The quality of medical care in the British Virgin Islands is generally good, with experienced and qualified medical staff providing a high standard of care," said one expat living in Brit. Virgin Isl..

As a foreigner living in the British Virgin Islands, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, foreigners living in the British Virgin Islands have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in the British Virgin Islands is provided by the Ministry of Health and Social Development and is free of charge for all residents. The public healthcare system includes a range of services, such as primary care, hospital care, mental health services, and public health services. The quality of care is generally good, with a focus on preventive care and health promotion. The public healthcare system also provides access to specialist services, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics," commented one expat who moved to Brit. Virgin Isl..

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in the British Virgin Islands if they have access to public healthcare in the British Virgin Islands. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in the British Virgin Islands. The government has implemented a number of measures to protect the health and safety of the population, including the closure of the borders, the introduction of a curfew, and the implementation of social distancing protocols. The healthcare system has also been affected, with the closure of some medical facilities and the introduction of telemedicine services. Despite these measures, the healthcare system has been able to provide adequate care to those in need. The government has also provided financial assistance to those who have been affected by the pandemic, including those who have lost their jobs or are unable to work due to illness," said an expat in Brit. Virgin Isl..

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in the British Virgin Islands?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in the British Virgin Islands about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"It is important to research the healthcare system in the British Virgin Islands before having a baby there. Make sure to find out what medical facilities are available and what type of insurance coverage is available. It is also important to find out what type of prenatal care is available and what type of postnatal care is available. Additionally, it is important to research the local laws and regulations regarding childbirth and parenting. It is also important to find out what type of support services are available for new parents, such as parenting classes and support groups. Finally, it is important to build a network of friends and family who can provide support during the pregnancy and after the baby is born," remarked one in Brit. Virgin Isl..

Are healthcare services good in the British Virgin Islands?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in the British Virgin Islands. They wrote:

"The British Virgin Islands offers a range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, and emergency services. Primary care is provided by general practitioners, while specialist care is provided by a range of specialists, including cardiologists, neurologists, and orthopedic surgeons. Emergency services are provided by the local hospital, which is equipped with a 24-hour emergency department. The hospital also offers a range of other services, such as radiology, laboratory services, and physical therapy. Additionally, the British Virgin Islands has a number of private clinics and hospitals that offer a range of medical services," explained one expat living in Brit. Virgin Isl..

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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