The healthcare system in Lautoka, consists of both public and private facilities. The public healthcare system, known as the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services, is accessible to both locals and foreigners, while private hospitals offer more specialized care and services.
Fiji’s Healthcare System
Fiji’s public healthcare system is managed by the Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services. Public hospitals in Lautoka are generally used by both locals and foreigners, including expats and digital nomads. However, for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, people often recommend using private hospitals due to their better facilities and services. Public hospitals in Lautoka can be crowded and may have limited resources, while private hospitals offer a more comfortable and well-equipped environment for patients. Expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Fiji, but they often prefer private hospitals for their healthcare needs.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Lautoka
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Lautoka include:
- Lautoka Hospital (public) – located in Lautoka City
- Natabua Health Centre (public) – located in Natabua, Lautoka
- Medicare Health Centre (private) – located in Lautoka City
- Zens Medical Centre (private) – located in Lautoka City, specializes in general practice and family medicine
If there are no suitable hospitals in Lautoka for specific medical needs, expats may need to travel to Suva, the capital city of Fiji, which is approximately 217 km away by car.
Emergency Services in Lautoka
There are ambulance services available in Lautoka. In case of an emergency, you can call the national emergency number, 911. However, response times may vary depending on the location and availability of ambulances. It is advisable to have a backup plan, such as arranging private transportation, in case of delays.
Health Insurance Companies in Lautoka
Some popular private health insurance companies in Lautoka include FijiCare Insurance Limited and BSP Life Fiji. These companies offer various health insurance plans for locals and expats. However, expats and digital nomads may prefer to use specialized expat health insurance providers that cater to their specific needs and offer coverage for medical treatments in multiple countries. It is essential to research and compare different insurance providers to find the best plan for your healthcare needs while living in Lautoka.
Insider Tips from Expats in Lautoka: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Lautoka for a while 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. However, there might be some sacrifices you’ll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you’ll want to consider the neighborhood you choose to live in. Some of the more affordable neighborhoods in Lautoka include Tavakubu, Waiyavi, and Saru. These areas offer a good mix of local culture and modern amenities, and you can find decent housing options within your budget. On the other hand, you might want to avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Vomo Street and Natabua, as the cost of living there can be significantly higher.One sacrifice you might have to make is in terms of transportation. While public transportation is available in Lautoka, it might not be as reliable or convenient as you’re used to. You might need to rely on taxis or even consider purchasing a car to get around more easily. This can add to your monthly expenses, so you’ll need to budget accordingly.Another aspect to consider is the cost of imported goods. While local produce and products are generally affordable, imported items can be quite expensive due to import taxes and shipping costs. You might need to adjust your shopping habits and opt for local alternatives to stay within your budget.In terms of entertainment and dining out, there are plenty of affordable options in Lautoka. However, you might need to be more selective about where you go and how often you indulge in these activities to ensure you don’t overspend.Lastly, while healthcare in Fiji is generally affordable, you might want to consider getting private health insurance to ensure you have access to the best possible care. This can be an additional expense, but it’s worth considering for peace of mind.Overall, living in Lautoka on $5,000 a month is definitely doable, but you’ll need to be mindful of your spending and make some adjustments to your lifestyle to make it work,” commented an expat living in Lautoka.
