Health & Protection in The Bahamas

The Bahamas is famous for its pristine beaches, charming communities and very hospitable locals. These are the reasons why expats immediately feel at ease and comfortable as soon as they land on the island. However, no matter how beautiful a place is, it is no reason for you to let your guards down. There are uncountable things that can go out of hand especially that you are still unfamiliar with the new place. Always make sure that your health and finances are well protected. Expats like you should include insurance as one of the immediate needs when relocating so that whatever happens, you are prepared. Here are some of the important things about the health care and protection in the Bahamas.

Getting Insurance

Before calling private insurers, you must contact first the Human Resource office of your company to ask if you have health care from them. Expats should have adequate medical coverage from their employers or sponsors as part of their relocation package to the Bahamas. Also, your company should also be among the licensed brokers by the Central Bank of the Bahamas, a local institution that regulates the operation of all insurance providers in the country.

You can also get insurance from the international and local brokers in The Bahamas. Expats can choose between CIGNA Global, a multinational provider of health care for the expat community and Royal Star Assurance, which is a local company that covers non-life products such as home, auto and finances. Take your time in choosing which company will serve as your insurer. Its best to call a couple of them and learn about their different policies so that you’ll have a broader idea that’ll help you in deciding.

Importance of Insurance

Dengue fever and malaria are common sicknesses in tropical places such as The Bahamas; that’s why expats are always advised to put insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites. You should also avoid staying under the sun too much since it can cause rashes, heat exhaustion or heat stroke that is common to people who are still adjusting to the islands’ hot climate. And most of all, make sure that all you vaccinations against rabies, tetanus, measles and diphtheria are updated before going to The Bahamas.

Local Insurance in The Bahamas

The Government of The Bahamas provides free and high-quality medical service to all its citizens, children, and pregnant women as well as elderly who are 60 years old and above regardless of their source of income. However, expats should get private coverage since there is no national health insurance scheme that they can contribute to being able to benefit from the state-funded health care.