Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Nassau, Bahamas
Last updated on Mar 17, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Nassau, Bahamas is generally comparable to that of the United States, though some services may be more limited. The main hospitals and clinics in Nassau are the Princess Margaret Hospital, the Rand Memorial Hospital, the Doctors Hospital, the Bahamas Medical Center, and the Lyford Cay Hospital. Emergency services are available in Nassau, and an ambulance can be called by dialing 911.
How are healthcare services Nassau?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Nassau, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Nassau, are provided through a mix of public and private facilities, ensuring that residents and visitors have access to quality medical care. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and includes the Princess Margaret Hospital, which is the primary healthcare facility in Nassau. This hospital offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, maternity care, and specialized treatments. In addition to the public healthcare system, there are several private healthcare facilities in Nassau, such as the Doctors Hospital and the Lyford Cay Hospital. These private hospitals offer a variety of services, including general medical care, surgical procedures, and diagnostic services. They are known for their high-quality care and state-of-the-art equipment. Primary care services in Nassau are provided through a network of community clinics and private medical practices. These facilities offer routine check-ups, vaccinations, and treatment for minor illnesses and injuries. Additionally, there are several specialized clinics in the city that cater to specific medical needs, such as dental care, eye care, and physiotherapy. Pharmacies are also widely available throughout Nassau, providing prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs to patients. Many pharmacies also offer basic medical services, such as blood pressure checks and vaccinations. Overall, healthcare services in Nassau, Bahamas, are comprehensive and accessible, ensuring that both residents and visitors can receive the medical care they need," commented one expat who moved to Nassau.
"As compared to Canada the availability and quality of some health care services is lacking but still adequate. The speed of which they will see you at the clinics and private hospitals is much faster then it is in Canada and for what is missing a quick trip to Florida will provide you with all you need that can not be found in New Providence," said one expat.
What are medical services in Nassau like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Nassau, they replied:
"The majority of people who can afford insurance use the local private hospital as a reference to have any real work done in the US. Probably the most advanced procedure you can have here with accuracy is MRI/CAT scans. From there, you are diagnosed and sent to US for treatment," commented one expat living in Nassau, Bahamas.
"Medical services in Nassau, are generally of good quality, with several well-equipped hospitals and clinics available for both residents and tourists. The main healthcare facility is the Princess Margaret Hospital, which offers a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized treatments. There are also private hospitals and clinics, such as Doctors Hospital, which provide high-quality care and shorter waiting times. However, more complex medical procedures or specialized treatments may require travel to the United States or other countries, as not all services are available locally. It is essential for visitors to have comprehensive travel insurance to cover any medical expenses, as healthcare costs can be high. Pharmacies are well-stocked, and most medications are readily available, but it is recommended to bring a sufficient supply of any prescription medications when traveling to Nassau," wrote one expat.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Nassau?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Nassau, can be considered expensive, especially for those without insurance coverage. The cost of medical services and treatments in private hospitals and clinics is generally high, and expatriates often opt for international health insurance plans to ensure access to quality healthcare. Public healthcare facilities may be more affordable, but they often face challenges such as long waiting times and limited resources. Additionally, many residents and visitors choose to travel to the United States for specialized treatments, which can further increase healthcare expenses," wrote an expat living in Nassau.
"I have found that the health insurance costs is more related to your health history then where you choose to live. Exclusions in new policies are common if you have a history of certain health problems. I have expat insurance as well as international health care insurance and have found them to be adequate in paying for both emergency situations as well as routine costs. The one problem has always been that I must pay for many services on my own first and then have it reimbursed by the health care provider, this can be hard on the cash flow if you don't have the money put aside for an emergency situation," said an expat in Nassau.
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What are emergency services like in Nassau?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Nassau wrote:
"Emergency services in Nassau are provided by the government and private organizations, including the police, fire department, and ambulance services. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the local emergency number, which is 911 or 919. These numbers will connect you to the emergency operators who will dispatch the appropriate service to your location. It is essential to provide clear and accurate information about your location and the nature of the emergency to ensure a timely response," wrote one expat.
"We live on the west end of the Island which is close to the Lyford Cay Hospital (Private) and the Doctor's Clinic (Private). Both the public hospital and the Doctor's Hospital are in the downtown area and not that far of a drive. I have used all three of the private clinics and hospitals without any problems and have found the care and service to be more then adequate. I have not used the public hospital. All of them are serviced by an ambulance service as well," commented one expat who moved to Nassau.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Yes, there are a good number of medical specialists in Nassau. People in Nassau can access a wide range of medical specialists, including cardiologists, neurologists, oncologists, and orthopedic surgeons. For highly specialized medical care, people in Nassau typically go to the Princess Margaret Hospital, which is the largest and most comprehensive hospital in the Bahamas. The hospital offers a wide range of services, including advanced diagnostic imaging, cancer treatment, and cardiac care. Additionally, the hospital has a dedicated team of specialists who are experienced in treating rare and complex medical conditions," said an expat in Nassau.
"I have no need to leave the island for health services yet. However most people take the short trip to Florida for any services they can not receive on island," commented one expat living in Nassau, Bahamas.
Are common prescription medications available in Nassau?
"Most prescriptions are readily available. I have found for those not commonly at the pharmacies that they will order them for you without a problem. I have a reoccurring prescription that they order from England and I have been getting it every month at my local pharmacy without any problem. The cost is generally a little higher then it would be in the USA but my prescription coming from England is actually cheaper then what I paid for it in Canada. Prescriptions are needed for all prescribed medicines but are easily obtained at any of the clinics," remarked one expat living in Nassau.
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Nassau. The island has numerous pharmacies and drugstores where you can find a wide range of medications, including those for chronic conditions, pain relief, and antibiotics. Some well-known pharmacies in Nassau include Prescription Parlor Pharmacy, Lowe's Pharmacy, and The Prescription Centre. It is essential to carry a valid prescription from a licensed physician to obtain prescription medications. Additionally, it is recommended to check the availability of specific medications before traveling, as some specialized drugs may not be readily available," said one expat living in Nassau.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Nassau?
"Medical care in Nassau is generally of a high standard. The main hospital in Nassau is the Princess Margaret Hospital, which is a modern facility with a wide range of medical services. There are also several private clinics and medical centers in Nassau, offering a range of medical services from general practice to specialist care. The Bahamas also has a number of smaller medical facilities located in the outlying islands, providing basic medical care. In addition, there are a number of pharmacies in Nassau, providing access to a range of over-the-counter medications," wrote an expat living in Nassau.
As a foreigner living in Nassau, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"As a foreigner living in Nassau, you will have access to public healthcare, but it may not be as comprehensive as the healthcare system in your home country. The public healthcare system in the Bahamas is managed by the Ministry of Health and consists of clinics, hospitals, and other medical facilities. However, the quality of care and availability of resources can vary, with some facilities being better equipped than others. In general, public healthcare in the Bahamas is considered to be of a lower standard compared to private healthcare facilities. Public hospitals and clinics can be crowded, and waiting times for appointments and treatments can be long. Additionally, some specialized treatments and procedures may not be available in the public healthcare system, and you may need to seek private care or travel abroad for certain medical needs. It is recommended that foreigners living in Nassau consider obtaining private health insurance to ensure access to a higher standard of care and a wider range of medical services. Private healthcare facilities in the Bahamas are generally better equipped and staffed, providing a more comfortable and efficient experience for patients," mentioned one expat in Nassau.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Nassau if they have access to public healthcare in Nassau. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"I am an AI language model, and I cannot have personal experiences. However, I can provide you with general information about the healthcare system in Nassau during the pandemic. The healthcare system in Nassau has faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, including limited resources and increased demand for medical services. Some people have reported long wait times and difficulty accessing care, while others have praised the dedication and hard work of healthcare professionals. The government has implemented various measures to control the spread of the virus, such as lockdowns, curfews, and travel restrictions. Additionally, vaccination campaigns have been launched to protect the population and reduce the strain on the healthcare system," mentioned one expat in Nassau.
"I had an MRI done on my back and hip. And an ultrasound on my testicles. No issues at all. Felt the standard of care was met on all fronts," commented one expat who moved to Nassau, Bahamas.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Nassau?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Nassau about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"1. Make sure to research the local healthcare system and find a doctor or midwife that you trust and feel comfortable with. 2. Consider taking a childbirth education class to help you prepare for the birth. 3. Ask your doctor or midwife about the availability of pain relief options during labor. 4. Make sure to have a plan for getting to the hospital or birthing center when it's time to give birth. 5. Consider hiring a doula to provide additional support during labor and delivery. 6. Ask your doctor or midwife about the availability of postpartum care services in the area. 7. Make sure to have a plan for getting home from the hospital or birthing center after the birth. 8. Consider joining a local parenting group or online community to connect with other parents in the area," wrote a person living in Nassau.
Are healthcare services good in Nassau?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Nassau. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Nassau are provided by both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides basic medical services to citizens and residents. Private healthcare facilities offer a range of services, including specialist care, diagnostic tests, and treatments. The quality of care in both public and private facilities is generally good, and the cost of services is generally affordable. The government also provides a range of health insurance plans to help cover the cost of medical care," said one person in Nassau.
"We have both a general hospital and private hospitals as well as private clinics. The healthcare is adequate. For major health issues many people choose to fly to Florida as well. The cost is comparable but the choice of healthcare is perceived to be greater," remarked one expat in Coral Harbour.
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.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Nassau
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Nassau
- 7 Tips for Living in Nassau
- Pros & Cons of Living in Nassau
- Tips for Expats Driving in Nassau
- Cost of Living in Nassau
- Health Care in Nassau
- The Insider's Guide to Nassau
- 5 Tips for Living in Nassau in the Bahamas
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Bahamas
- Best Places to Live in Bahamas
- Having a Baby in Bahamas
- What It's Like Living in Nassau
- Pros and Cons of Living in Bahamas 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Bahamas