Healthcare and Health Insurance in Antigua & Barbuda

Summary: The quality of medical care in Antigua & Barbuda is generally considered to be good, though it may not be as advanced as the medical care available 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 911 or the local emergency number, which is 511.

How are healthcare services Antigua & Barbuda?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Antigua & Barbuda, they replied:

"Antigua and Barbuda provides a wide array of health care services and has both a public and private healthcare system. Public healthcare is mainly provided through the government or at times, a partnership with another healthcare organization. The public health system is centralized, with all the public healthcare resources being consolidated at the Mount St. John's Medical Centre, which is a state-run hospital. Additionally, there are a few private healthcare facilities, but these tend to be limited to acute or minor care. The quality of public healthcare in Antigua and Barbuda is generally good, although some services may be limited due to budget constraints. For instance, medical imaging services are not available at the public hospital and must be outsourced to private providers. Nevertheless, the overall quality of healthcare in Antigua and Barbuda is high, with a dedicated and highly skilled staff providing excellent care. Foreigners who are visiting or immigrating to Antigua and Barbuda can rest assured that they have access to the same public healthcare services as local citizens. Expats in Antigua and Barbuda typically use the public healthcare system, as it is reliable and affordable. The government also offers a comprehensive health insurance plan for expats, known as the Health Card, which provides coverage for a range of essential services and treatments. This is an attractive option for expats looking for a well-rounded healthcare package at an affordable price," remarked one expat in Antigua & Barbuda.

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What are medical services in Antigua & Barbuda like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Antigua & Barbuda, they replied:

"Antigua & Barbuda offer a range of medical services, including general practitioners, specialist physicians, dentists, and pharmacists. Health care is provided mainly through public and private hospitals, health centers, and clinics. Health care is generally high quality and affordable, with a standard of care similar to other Caribbean nations. Medical facilities often use modern technology and well-trained staff. In addition, health education programs have been established to improve the overall health of the populace," wrote an expat living in Antigua & Barbuda.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Antigua & Barbuda?

"Healthcare and health insurance are generally not considered to be expensive in Antigua & Barbuda. The government operates a fairly efficient public health system, with roughly one third of the healthcare funding coming from the government, and the remainder coming from private health insurance and out-of-pocket expenses. Public health facilities are generally of a high quality, and offer affordable or free services for those in need. Private health insurance is available, but it tends to be more expensive than public health services. While private health insurance offers greater coverage, it is not always necessary," said one expat living in Antigua & Barbuda.

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What are emergency services like in Antigua & Barbuda?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Antigua & Barbuda wrote:

"In Antigua & Barbuda, emergency services are provided by the national emergency response system, with properly trained and equipped personnel who are available 24/7. Emergency medical services, fire services, and search and rescue operations are provided by first responders. To call an ambulance, citizens are encouraged to dial 999 or 911. Ambulance services are available throughout all six of the nation's districts, and are equipped to provide transportation to the nearest medical facility," remarked one expat in Antigua & Barbuda.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The capital of Antigua & Barbuda, St. John's, is home to the largest array of medical specialists in the country. The nearby settlements of All Saints, Liberta and Bolans are also known for having plenty of well-renowned specialists in the medical field. Other noteworthy locations for finding medical specialists in Antigua & Barbuda include the village of Crab Hill and the towns of Parham and English Harbour. Overall, the island nation provides excellent care for patients and offers a great selection of medical specialists throughout its many cities and villages," wrote one expat.

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Are common prescription medications available in Antigua & Barbuda?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Antigua & Barbuda. Several pharmacies across the country offer prescription medications and medication-related healthcare advice. While the availability of specific medications may vary, several local and international producers offer prescription drugs for common illnesses. In addition to pharmacies, some hotels also offer medication services for visitors to the country," remarked one expat living in Antigua & Barbuda.

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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Antigua & Barbuda?

"Medical care in Antigua & Barbuda is provided at an adequate level. There are a few hospitals, a handful of clinics and several health centers on both the main islands and nearby smaller islands. The hospitals and clinics are generally well-maintained and staffed with qualified medical personnel, including specialist medical doctors and qualified nurses. In addition, basic medical services such as dental and optometry care are available. The country is also well-equipped with modern medical equipment and a variety of diagnostic tools. Overall, the quality of medical care provided in Antigua & Barbuda is sufficient to meet the needs of the local population," mentioned one expat in Antigua & Barbuda.

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

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Antigua & Barbuda, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Antigua & Barbuda is similar to that of other Caribbean islands, with a state sponsored system formed of two hospitals and several smaller health centers. The hospitals are well equipped and staffed with medical staff, and the health centers are usually supported by local general practitioners and nurses. In general, the public healthcare system provides competent and reasonably prompt access to basic medical care," commented one expat who moved to Antigua & Barbuda.

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

We asked expats in Antigua & Barbuda if they have access to public healthcare in Antigua & Barbuda. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"When the pandemic hit Antigua & Barbuda, the local healthcare system was quick to implement a range of strategies and protocols to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the local population. The health authorities created a number of new screening and testing centers, improved contact tracing protocols, and ramped up healthcare services to deal with the increased demand for medical assistance. While the country’s health system is far from perfect, there are many examples of people who have felt supported by the local healthcare system in their time of need during the pandemic. Furthermore, Antigua & Barbuda's national health insurance system has kept medical services affordable for those who need them," said one expat.

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What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Antigua & Barbuda?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Antigua & Barbuda about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Antigua & Barbuda before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in the area. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations regarding childbirth and parenting. Additionally, it is a good idea to connect with other expat parents in the area to get advice and support. Finally, make sure to take time to relax and enjoy the experience of having a baby in Antigua & Barbuda," remarked one expat in Antigua & Barbuda.

Are healthcare services good in Antigua & Barbuda?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Antigua & Barbuda. They wrote:

"Antigua & Barbuda has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country also has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer a range of medical services. The government provides free healthcare to children under the age of five and to pregnant women. The country also has a number of health centers that provide primary care services such as immunizations, family planning, and maternal and child health services. Additionally, there are a number of specialized medical centers that provide services such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics," remarked one expat in Antigua & Barbuda.

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Antigua & Barbuda

How are healthcare services Antigua & Barbuda?

What are medical services in Antigua & Barbuda like?

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Antigua & Barbuda?

What are emergency services like in Antigua & Barbuda?

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

Are common prescription medications available in Antigua & Barbuda?

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Antigua & Barbuda?

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

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

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Antigua & Barbuda?

Are healthcare services good in Antigua & Barbuda?

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