Bali has a mix of public and private healthcare systems. While the public healthcare system is accessible to foreigners, it is often recommended to seek private healthcare for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. This article will provide an overview of the healthcare system in Bali, including information on hospitals and clinics for expats, emergency services, and health insurance companies.
Indonesia’s Healthcare System
Indonesia’s public healthcare system, known as BPJS Kesehatan, is available to both locals and foreigners. However, public hospitals in Bali are often crowded and may not have the same level of equipment and facilities as private hospitals. For serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, it is generally recommended to use private hospitals. Expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Indonesia, but they often prefer private hospitals due to better facilities and English-speaking staff.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Bali
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Bali include:
- BIMC Hospital (private) – located in Kuta and Nusa Dua, offering a range of medical services including emergency care and dental services.
- Siloam Hospitals (private) – located in Denpasar, offering a wide range of medical services and specialties.
- Kasih Ibu Hospital (private) – located in Denpasar, providing general medical services and emergency care.
- Sanglah General Hospital (public) – located in Denpasar, this is the main public hospital in Bali and has a range of medical services, but may be crowded and have limited facilities.
Emergency Services in Bali
There are ambulance services in Bali, which can be called by dialing 118. However, response times may vary and there can be delays due to traffic congestion. In some cases, it may be faster to arrange private transportation to the nearest hospital or clinic.
Health Insurance Companies in Bali
Popular private health insurers in Bali include Allianz, AXA, and Prudential. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans for locals and expats. However, many expats and digital nomads may choose to use specialized expat health insurance providers that cater specifically to their needs and offer coverage for medical treatment both in Indonesia and abroad.
Insider Tips from Expats in Bali: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Bali for a few years now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even with modern amenities. However, there are some sacrifices you might have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you’ll want to avoid the more expensive neighborhoods like Seminyak, Canggu, and Ubud, as these areas cater more to tourists and expats, and the cost of living is significantly higher. Instead, consider looking for a place to live in more affordable neighborhoods like Sanur, Denpasar, or even some parts of Jimbaran. These areas still have access to modern amenities, but the cost of living is much more reasonable.One of the sacrifices you might have to make is living in a smaller or more modest home. While you can still find beautiful villas and apartments in these areas, they might not be as luxurious or spacious as the ones in the more expensive neighborhoods. However, you can still find comfortable and well-maintained homes that will suit your needs.Another thing to consider is transportation. While it’s relatively cheap to rent a scooter or motorbike in Bali, you might have to sacrifice the convenience of having a car. Traffic can be quite congested in some areas, and parking can be a challenge. However, using a scooter or motorbike is a great way to get around the island and explore different areas.When it comes to dining out, you might have to be more selective about where you eat. While there are plenty of high-end restaurants in Bali, they can be quite expensive. Instead, try to explore the local warungs (small family-owned restaurants) and street food vendors, where you can find delicious and affordable meals.Lastly, you might have to be more mindful of your overall spending habits. While $5,000 a month is a comfortable budget for living in Bali, it’s still important to keep track of your expenses and make sure you’re not overspending on unnecessary items or activities.Overall, living in Bali on $5,000 a month is definitely doable, and you can still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with modern amenities. Just be prepared to make some sacrifices and be mindful of your spending habits to ensure you stay within your budget,” commented an expat living in Bali.
