Davao has a public and private healthcare system. The public healthcare system is called the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). It is used by both locals and foreigners, although foreigners may need to pay additional fees. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Davao for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. At a public hospital in Davao, one can expect to find a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, general surgery, and specialized care. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in the Philippines, although they may need to pay additional fees. Expats typically use private hospitals for more specialized medical care and major surgeries, as they are more likely to have the latest medical technology and experienced medical professionals. Private hospitals in Davao are well-equipped and offer a wide range of medical services, including emergency care, general surgery, and specialized care. People generally recommend using private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Davao
There are several recommended clinics and hospitals in Davao for expats. These include the Davao Doctors Hospital, a private hospital located in the heart of Davao City; the Brokenshire Integrated Health Ministries, a private hospital located in the Matina area of Davao City; and the Davao Medical School Foundation Hospital, a public hospital located in the Bajada area of Davao City. The Davao Doctors Hospital specializes in cardiology, while the Brokenshire Integrated Health Ministries specializes in obstetrics and gynecology. The Davao Medical School Foundation Hospital is a general hospital that offers a wide range of medical services.
Emergency Services in Davao
Davao has several ambulance services, including the Davao City Emergency Medical Services (DCEMS). To call for an ambulance, one can dial 911 or contact the DCEMS directly. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, although there may be delays due to traffic or other factors.
Health Insurance Companies in Davao
The most popular private health insurers in Davao are Maxicare, Intellicare, and PhilCare. Maxicare and Intellicare offer a wide range of health insurance plans, while PhilCare specializes in health maintenance organization (HMO) plans. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although some may opt for specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Davao: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Davao for a few years now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, especially if you’re used to modern amenities. In fact, you might even find that you can enjoy a higher standard of living here than you would in many Western countries.One of the first things you’ll need to consider is where you want to live. There are plenty of affordable neighborhoods in Davao, but some of the more popular ones for expats include Buhangin, Matina, and Maa. These areas have a good mix of local and international restaurants, shopping centers, and other amenities that you might be used to. On the other hand, you might want to avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Lanang and Damosa, as these areas tend to have higher rental prices and can be quite pricey overall.In terms of housing, you can find a nice apartment or even a small house for around $300 to $500 a month, depending on the location and size. If you’re looking for something more luxurious, you can find high-end condos and houses for around $1,000 to $2,000 a month. Keep in mind that utilities like electricity and water can be a bit more expensive than you might be used to, but it’s still quite manageable within your budget.When it comes to transportation, you have a few options. You can either buy a car, which can be a bit expensive due to import taxes, or you can rely on public transportation like jeepneys and taxis. Personally, I find that using Grab (similar to Uber) is the most convenient and affordable way to get around the city.As for food, you’ll find that eating out is quite affordable in Davao. You can enjoy a meal at a local restaurant for around $2 to $5, while a meal at a more upscale restaurant will cost you around $10 to $20. If you prefer to cook at home, groceries are also quite affordable, especially if you shop at local markets.In terms of entertainment and leisure activities, there’s plenty to do in Davao without breaking the bank. You can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, beach trips, and exploring nearby islands for a relatively low cost. There are also plenty of malls, movie theaters, and other entertainment options that are quite affordable.Overall, I think you’ll find that living in Davao on a $5,000 a month budget is not only possible but also quite comfortable. You might have to make a few adjustments in terms of your lifestyle, but I believe you’ll find that the lower cost of living and the friendly local culture more than make up for any sacrifices you might have to make,” commented an expat living in Davao.
