15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Barbados
Last updated on Sep 02, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Barbados is generally considered to be on par with the United States. Barbados has a well-developed healthcare system with a range of public and private hospitals and clinics. Emergency services are available 24/7 and can be accessed by calling the local emergency number, which is 211. Ambulance services are also available and can be requested by calling the same number.
How are healthcare services Barbados?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Barbados, they replied:
"Barbados has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a range of services to its citizens and foreign residents. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a range of services available including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may be required to pay for some services. Expats in Barbados can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats can also access private healthcare services, which are generally of a higher quality than the public system," wrote an expat living in Barbados.
What are medical services in Barbados like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Barbados, they replied:
"Barbados has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. The country has a number of public and private hospitals, as well as a number of clinics and health centers. The public healthcare system is free for all citizens and permanent residents, while private healthcare is available for those who can afford it. Barbados also has a number of specialist medical centers, offering services such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. In addition, Barbados has a number of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications," wrote an expat living in Barbados.
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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Barbados?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Barbados can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Public healthcare is also available, but it is limited and may not provide the same level of care as private healthcare. Additionally, some medical treatments may not be covered by public healthcare, and patients may need to pay out of pocket for these services," mentioned one expat in Barbados.
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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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What are emergency services like in Barbados?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Barbados wrote:
"Emergency services in Barbados are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the Barbados Emergency Medical Service (BEMS) can be contacted by dialing the emergency number, 911. The BEMS provides ambulance services, as well as medical and fire services. Ambulances are staffed with trained personnel and are equipped with the necessary medical equipment to provide emergency medical care. In addition, the BEMS also provides a range of other services, such as search and rescue operations, hazardous material response, and disaster relief," mentioned one expat in Barbados.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"The capital city of Bridgetown is home to a wide variety of medical specialists, including general practitioners, specialists in internal medicine, cardiology, neurology, orthopedics, and more. The nearby city of Holetown is also home to a number of medical specialists, including those specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and dermatology. The city of Speightstown is home to a number of medical specialists, including those specializing in ophthalmology, psychiatry, and endocrinology. The city of Oistins is home to a number of medical specialists, including those specializing in oncology, gastroenterology, and pulmonology. The city of St. Lawrence Gap is home to a number of medical specialists, including those specializing in urology, rheumatology, and physical therapy," remarked one expat living in Barbados.
Are common prescription medications available in Barbados?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Barbados. Most pharmacies in Barbados carry a wide range of prescription medications, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and pain relievers. In addition, many pharmacies also offer over-the-counter medications, such as vitamins and supplements. Some pharmacies may also offer specialty medications, such as those used to treat cancer or HIV/AIDS," wrote one expat.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Barbados?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Barbados are of a high standard. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a range of public and private hospitals and clinics providing quality medical care. Barbados is also home to a number of highly trained and experienced medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and specialists. The country also has a number of modern medical technologies and equipment, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care," commented one expat who moved to Barbados.
As a foreigner living in Barbados, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Barbados, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Barbados is generally considered to be of a high standard, with a wide range of services available. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and permanent residents. Non-residents may be able to access some services, but may be required to pay a fee. The public healthcare system includes a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers, as well as a range of specialist services," mentioned one expat in Barbados.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Barbados if they have access to public healthcare in Barbados. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Barbados. The government has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and patients, including the introduction of a national contact tracing system, the implementation of social distancing protocols, and the provision of personal protective equipment. Additionally, the government has provided financial support to healthcare workers and increased access to testing and treatment for those affected by the virus. Despite these measures, the healthcare system in Barbados has been strained due to the increased demand for services. Many healthcare workers have had to work long hours and take on additional responsibilities in order to meet the needs of the population. Despite the challenges, the healthcare system in Barbados has been able to provide quality care to those affected by the virus," commented one expat who moved to Barbados.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Barbados?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Barbados about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Barbados before having a baby there. Make sure to find a doctor or midwife that you trust and feel comfortable with. 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 Barbados to get advice and support. Finally, make sure to take time to relax and enjoy the experience of having a baby in Barbados," explained one expat.
"Talk to as many locals and expats that you can about doctor recommendations. You need to feel comfortable with the doctor in order for the rest to go well. Listen to your gut when choosing a doctor. If they don't feel like the right fit for you, try another. Note: most of the doctors in Barbados were trained in the UK and are very well educated with the latest medicine education. Most doctors post their certificates on the walls of their offices so you can see where they studied but if not don't be shy to ask," said one person in Bridgetown.
Are healthcare services good in Barbados?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Barbados. They wrote:
"Barbados has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides quality medical services to its citizens. The country has a number of public and private hospitals and clinics that offer a range of medical services, including primary care, specialist care, and emergency services. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens. Private healthcare services are also available and are generally more expensive than public services. Barbados also has a number of health insurance plans that provide coverage for medical expenses. Additionally, Barbados has a number of health promotion and disease prevention programs that are aimed at improving the overall health of the population," said one person in Barbados.
"Yes, they have both a government hospital as well as private hospital. These are located in the south east part of the island near Bridgetown. They also have many clinics around the island and an ambulance service. As in most places healthcare for major issues can be quite expensive. Make sure you have private healthcare insurance and understand your coverage before needing it," remarked one expat in Clapham Ridge.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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- How are healthcare services in Barbados?
- What are medical services in Barbados like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Barbados?
- What are emergency services like in Barbados?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Barbados?
- How are local medical facilities in Barbados?
- As a foreigner living in Barbados, 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?