Health Insurance in Barbados, America

Information expatriation

Capital City: Bridgetown
Total area: 430 km2
Population: 294,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +1 246 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikipedia Barbados

Health Product: Travel Insurance and Health insurance
Health Insurance information and Sanitary Risk :  World Health Map
BLOG : Expat Health insurance Information

Here is a brief description of the healthcare system in the country:

·      Barbados has a publicly funded healthcare system that aims to provide universal coverage to all citizens and legal residents.

·      It is financed through general tax revenues as well as National Insurance Scheme contributions from employees and employers.

·      Primary care services are offered through public clinics and health centers located across the island.

·      Secondary and tertiary care is available at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, the main public referral facility in Bridgetown.

·      Specialized services may require travel off-island as domestic capacity is limited.

·      Private healthcare services complement the public system, catering to expat patients and medical tourism.

·      Standard of care is generally high by regional standards but shortages of staff and equipment do exist.

·      Non-communicable diseases pose the main burden, linked to lifestyle and an aging population.

·      Reforms seek to modernize facilities and digitize records to improve efficiency and care coordination.

·      Out-of-pocket costs and lack of insurance can impact access and quality of life for some groups.

·      Natural disasters from hurricanes are an ongoing risk requiring emergency preparedness.

Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:

·      Purchase comprehensive international medical insurance before arrival as a supplement to the public system.

·      Consider additional medical evacuation coverage if serious care needs to be accessed abroad.

·      Register with a local clinic and establish a primary care physician for minor issues and access to hospitals.

·      Bring adequate prescription medication supplies as availability of certain drugs is limited.

·      Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date, especially for travelers/tropical diseases.

·      Only consume bottled, boiled or treated water and thoroughly cook foods.

·      Monitor impacts of climate, isolation or lifestyle changes on physical/mental health.

·      Rural clinics have fewer services - choose a location near major hospitals if possible.

·      Learn some basic medical terms in English and Spanish to better communicate needs.

·      Keep emergency contacts and plans updated with your embassy annually.

·      Natural disasters from hurricanes are a seasonal risk - maintain preparedness supplies.

·      Consider costs if urgent specialty care abroad is needed that's unavailable locally.