Healthcare in The Bahamas
The Bahamas, an almost paradise country situated just off the coast of Florida, USA and Cub prides itself for having an excellent healthcare system. This nation is blessed with a government that continues to strive in channelling investments to the healthcare sector and training more medical staff.
Though the healthcare system in the Bahamas is already considered excellent, the local government is still not stopping when it comes to improving the lives of its people. Different programmes have been launched during the recent years including the Health Lifestyle Initiative which focuses on reducing disability, illnesses and death that are undoubtedly caused by an unhealthy lifestyle. Another notable initiative by the government is the promotion of immunisation for all adults living in the country. With the support from the Ministry of Health, this programme aims on minimising vaccine-preventable diseases such as yellow fever, hepatitis B, influenza, tetanus, measles, rubella and mumps.
Healthcare Coverage for Expats
In general, the funding of the healthcare system in the country is handled by the Government of the Bahamas. Primary health care is free of charge to all civil servants, pregnant women, children, and people ages 60 years and above. Access to public health care services is also free of charge, regardless of one’s ability to pay. However, foreign nationals who are planning to reside in the Bahamas are recommended to take out private health insurance policy that will provide coverage for their basic needs, because the government does not have a national insurance scheme where they can contribute to.
Doctors in the Bahamas
Healthcare in the Bahamas is considered to be outstanding, with qualified and highly-trained medical staff. Several of the doctors in this country got their training from the United States, Canada, Europe, and the University of the West Indies. A lot of specialists, including visiting doctors from the U.S., operate from private clinics in the country. Here, expats can look forward to being accommodated and treated by medical professionals that are fluent in speaking English and are dedicated in delivering only the best care.
Doctors usually request an upfront cash payment unless you can present a proof of health insurance. The cost of procedures in this country is 30-40% cheaper than in the United States that’s why going to a hospital, even in a private one, is still considered affordable.
Hospitals and Clinics
The healthcare sector of the country is well developed, and the quality of general and specialist medical care provided by the state and private medical institutions are of high standards. The Bahamas has three government hospitals and two private hospitals, 55 health centres (41 in the Family Islands, nine in New Providence and five in Grand Bahama), 59 satellite clinics located all over the country, and 288 privately owned healthcare facilities which offer primary care as well as diagnostic services. All hospitals are equipped with advanced medical technology to cater to the various medical needs of its patients. Below are some of the hospitals in the country:
Nassau, The Bahamas
Tel: +1 242-322-2861
Nassau, The Bahamas
Tel: +1 242-364-9600
- Rand Memorial Hospital
E Atlantic Dr, Freeport F-40071, The Bahamas
Tel: +1 242-352-2689
- Lyford Cay Hospital
Western Rd, Nassau, The Bahamas
Tel: +1 242-362-4400
#1 Collins Ave, Nassau, The Bahamas
Tel: +1 242-302-4600
Meanwhile, health clinics in the smaller islands of the Bahamas are generally open only one or two days a week. Due to the relatively small population of people living in the smaller islands of the country, some islands have formed their own emergency response service to provide treatment and if needed, transfer patients to the nearest hospital.
Emergency Numbers
The following numbers can be called via mobile phone or pay phone in case of an emergency situation in the Bahamas:
- Fire: 411
- Ambulance: 919
- Police: 919, 911
- Travellers in distress: 242-326-HELP
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