Caribbean healthcare is excellent, offering advanced medical facilities and services. Every island, from the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico to Cuba and the Bahamas, has distinct access to healthcare. Places like the Bahamas and Cuba have excellent public health care systems as well as private hospitals, whereas Puerto Rico offers VA Caribbean health care.
This article provides comprehensive information about the Caribbean’s healthcare system, including medical centers available, health insurance for expats, and other services. We’ll also offer insights into the VA Caribbean Healthcare System, which provides healthcare services for American veterans living in specific Caribbean countries.
Caribbean Healthcare System for Expats
If you are an expat planning to move to the Caribbean, you should consider getting comprehensive healthcare insurance. Additionally, you should also keep some cash in hand, as some hospitals and clinics may ask you for payments first. Therefore, before you buy your insurance coverage, make sure you consider all these factors when moving to one of the countries with the best healthcare for expats.
According to data from the World Bank, the United Nations, and other available information, Barbados, the Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, Turks and Caicos, and the US Virgin Islands are considered to offer the Caribbean’s best healthcare services; these locations deliver modern facilities and easy access to care.
Key facts about Caribbean healthcare:
Varied quality: Healthcare standards in the Caribbean vary significantly from island to island. Some have modern healthcare infrastructure and readily available care facilities, while others have limited medical resources, including skilled personnel and specialized equipment.
High-quality private healthcare: Many Caribbean islands have excellent private hospitals and clinics, which are particularly popular among expats who prefer private healthcare. These include the Cayman Islands, Bahamas, and Barbados.
French Caribbean: Martinique, St Martin, and St Barts offer good healthcare standards within the French Caribbean.
Dutch Caribbean: Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao, and Saba offer high-quality healthcare services for residents of the Dutch Caribbean.
Access to specialists: Though quality can vary across the region, larger Caribbean islands like Barbados, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago have improved their specialized medical care services.
Medical tourism potential: Caribbean countries like Cuba and the Dominican Republic boast many highly qualified medical professionals and low healthcare prices, attracting a large number of medical tourists.
Challenges: Some Caribbean islands are challenged by the lack of skilled health professionals, limited funding, and rising chronic diseases.
Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda citizens and residents have access to a healthcare system that competes with most developed nations. The country’s largest medical facility is St John’s Medical Center, a 185-bed multi-use medical facility with a teaching hospital.
While the standard of Antigua and Barbuda’s healthcare across its hospitals varies, a driving force behind the country’s renowned healthcare system is linked to its healthcare professionals. According to the World Bank’s Latin America and the Caribbean health study in 2023, Antigua and Barbuda ranked highly among Caribbean nations in a medical professionals comparison. Pivotal statistics included:
- Most nurses per 1,000 population (2022)
- Third most doctors per 1,000 population (2022)
- Most psychologists per 100,000 population (2020)
- Second most community health workers per 1,000 population (2019)
The Bahamas
The Bahamas is a major tourist hub for international travelers and home to many expats looking to enjoy their retirement in the sun. It makes sense, then, that the nation has a reputation for offering the best healthcare in the Caribbean. In 2021, the World Health Organization found that the country’s health expenditure was seven percent of its GDP.
Everyone can access the facilities in three main public hospitals in Nassau and Freeport, including a range of care from maternity to surgery. There are also two private hospitals. There is a network of clinics across the other islands, however services may not be available seven days a week. However, emergency response teams (staffed by volunteers) are in operation.
There is no public health scheme foreign nationals living in the Caribbean island nation can contribute to, but health insurance options are available to cover emergency medical services. It is still advisable to have sufficient cash with you, as the hospital may require payment upfront. You might also want to ensure your policy covers evacuation or repatriation, as certain conditions may require treatment elsewhere.
St Kitts and Nevis
St Kitts and Nevis’s combination of modern healthcare facilities, access to advanced and specialized medical treatment, and well-qualified medical professionals have shaped its image as a leader within the Caribbean healthcare system. Well-equipped hospitals and clinics, such as the Joseph N. France General Hospital and Meridian Medical Centre, provide traditional and alternative medicine, advanced diagnostics, and maternal and neonatal care.
St Kitts and Nevis launched the Mental Health Service System Enhancement Project in collaboration with Taiwan (Republic of China) and has established healthcare initiatives with international institutions like the World Health Organization (WHO). These factors prove the government’s commitment to improving healthcare in St Kitts and Nevis. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Human Development Report (HDR) for 2024 ranked St Kitts and Nevis number one among CARICOM nations, with a fundamental contributor being the population’s health and life expectancy.
Cuba
Cuba has a thriving medical Caribbean tourism industry and excellent facilities and telemedicine services for private patients. The capital city, Havana, has some of the best hospitals in the Caribbean, while standards in less urban areas tend to vary. Having a comprehensive insurance plan and also ensuring you have enough cash to cover treatment or evacuation is worthwhile, as upfront payment may be necessary.
The standard of facilities and availability of healthcare services can be inconsistent across the country. However, according to data released by the World Health Organization, Cuba tops Caribbean healthcare rankings when evaluating the number of physicians per 10,000 population. It is advised to bring any medication you need with you (accompanied by a prescription and letter from your doctor explaining your need for them) as pharmaceutical availability may be limited.
Jamaica
The standards in private and public medical facilities in Jamaica can vary. Some of the best hospitals in Caribbean countries are located in tourist areas like Montego Bay and the capital, Kingston, and cater adequately for most ailments and types of emergency treatment.
Primary health care is delivered through a network of clinics and regional centers, and the country houses the University Hospital of the West Indies, 24 public hospitals, and ten private facilities.
The World Health Organization (WHO) published data showing that Jamaica also had a health expenditure of seven percent of its GDP in 2021. Similar to visiting other Caribbean islands, expats may benefit from a comprehensive health insurance plan and cash on hand to pay for treatment if necessary.
Dominican Republic
Private medical facilities in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, offer a level of treatment and care similar to those in developed countries. Standards in other cities may vary, however. In some cases, treatment may need to be paid for upfront.
Though the Dominican Republic provides some of the best medical care in the Caribbean, expats are advised to buy comprehensive health care insurance that covers repatriation or evacuation for certain conditions.
More on healthcare in the Caribbean
There are many different cultures, governments, political histories, and populations in the Caribbean. As such, the standards of medical facilities, investment in public healthcare systems, and access for citizens and expats vary from island to island. Many expats living in the Caribbean have access to good quality healthcare in Grenada, Barbados, Jamaica, St Kitts and Nevis, and many other Caribbean countries.
VA Caribbean Healthcare System for Americans
The VA Caribbean Healthcare System provides healthcare services to American veterans at 11 locations. VA healthcare is available to veterans, their families, and caregivers. The VA Caribbean Healthcare System offers a wide range of health, support, and facility services for Veterans in Puerto Rico, Saint Thomas, and Saint Croix, including primary care, mental health care, specialty care, and social programs and services.
Discover why you should invest in the Caribbean for lucrative citizenship opportunities.
| Primary VA Medical Facility | |
| Health care facility: | San Juan VA Medical Center |
| Address: | San Juan VA Medical Center, 10 Calle Casia, San Juan, PR 00921-3201 |
| Phone no.: | +1-787-641-7582 |
| Mental health care line: | +1-787-622-4822 |
| VA Health Centers | |
| Health care facility: | Ceiba VA Clinic |
| Address: | PR-3, Kilometers 54.9, Lot 3 Pueblo Ward, PR 00735 |
| Phone no.: | +1-787-522-2662 |
| Mental health care line: | +1-787-622-4822 |
| Health care facility: | Saint Croix VA Clinic |
| Address: | 10553 Kingshill, The Village Mall, Suite 113 St. Croix, VI 00850-4701 |
| Phone no.: | +1-340-778-5553 |
| Mental health care line: | +1-787-622-4822 |
| Health care facility: | Saint Thomas VA Clinic |
| Address: | 50 Estates Thomas, Suite 101 Saint Thomas, VI 00802 |
| Phone no.: | +1-340-774-6674 |
| Mental health care line: | +1-787-622-4822 |
| VA Veteran Center | |
| Health care facility: | Hatillo Vet Center |
| Address: | 140 Carr. 2 Hatillo, PR 00659 |
| Phone no.: | +1-787-879-4510 |
| Health care facility: | Ponce Vet Center |
| Address: | 1046 Hostos Avenue Ponce, PR 00716 |
| Phone no.: | +1-340-841-3260 |
| Health care facility: | San Juan Vet Center |
| Address: | 7 Tabonuco Street Guaynabo, PR 00968 |
| Phone no.: | +1-340-749-4409 |
Health Insurance in the Caribbean for Expats
Expats in the Caribbean should ideally opt for Global Insurance Coverage. The best healthcare in Caribbean countries is available at private hospitals, and various insurance companies provide international health care plans that cover care at public and private health clinics.
Before moving to the Caribbean, you should go through several healthcare plans and choose the one that best suits you. American veterans have access to free general and mental health care through the VA Caribbean healthcare system.
Access to healthcare in Caribbean countries
Here is a comparison of healthcare systems across the Caribbean.
| Country | Healthcare System | Health Coverage for Expats |
| Antigua and Barbuda | Public and Private | Public healthcare available Comprehensive private options |
| The Bahamas | Public and Private | Public healthcare available Comprehensive private options |
| Barbados | Public and Private | Limited public healthcare Comprehensive private options |
| Cuba | Public | Universal healthcare No private options |
| Dominica | Public and Private | Limited public healthcare Limited private options |
| Dominican Republic | Public and Private | Public healthcare available Comprehensive private options |
| Grenada | Public and Private | Public healthcare available Comprehensive private options |
| Jamaica | Public and Private | Public healthcare available Comprehensive private options |
| Puerto Rico | Public and Private | Expats can access public and private hospitals for a fee or with insurance |
| St Kitts and Nevis | Public and Private | Expats can access public and private hospitals for a fee or with insurance |
| St Lucia | Public and Private | Expats can access public and private hospitals for a fee or with insurance |
| Trinidad and Tobago | Public and Private | Public healthcare available Comprehensive private options |
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Emergency Contacts in the Caribbean
This section provides some helpful emergency contact details in the Caribbean.
| Country | Police | Ambulance | Fire |
| Aruba | 911 | ||
| Barbados | 211 | 511 | 311 |
| Bermuda | 911 | ||
| British Virgin Islands | 911/999 | 311 | |
| Cuba | 106 | 104 | 105 |
| Haiti | 114 | 116 | 115 |
| Jamaica | 119 | 110 | |
| Sint Maarten | 911 | 912 | 919 |
| St Kitts and Nevis | 911 | ||
| St Vincent and the Grenadines | 999/911/112 | ||
Accessing the Caribbean Healthcare System
To determine the best Caribbean healthcare solutions and the process of accessing the health services you require, it is essential that you do thorough research. While the St Lucia healthcare includes private options, Cuba’s healthcare system is entirely government run, with no access to private healthcare.
Below is a checklist of considerations that will determine healthcare accessibility and the quality of care in the Caribbean:
- Search the number of hospitals in the area and how they compare to hospitals in other Caribbean countries.
- Explore the country’s options for universal healthcare plans for expats.
- Caribbean banks like Sagicor offer discounted healthcare and life insurance to account holders through its Care Shield Plan.
- Find out which healthcare facilities are available and what services they offer.
- Determine the access to a general practitioner at private clinics as well as through the number of doctors per 1,000 population studies.
- Evaluate the options for inpatient and outpatient care.
- Assess the availability of specialized treatments and emergency care.
- If you’re an American veteran, consider the access to VA Caribbean medical centers.
- Measure evacuation or repatriation options if treatment is not available locally or to a satisfactory standard.
Cost of Caribbean Healthcare Services
While healthcare costs in Caribbean islands are lower overall than in North America or Western Europe, each island has its own services and costs related to accessing them. Visiting a general practitioner in Barbados costs between $35 and $60; general practitioner visits in St Lucia and Jamaica cost around the same. An X-ray and blood work costs about $70 in the Dominican Republic, whereas the same services cost about $160 in Trinidad and Tobago.
Concerning private healthcare for expats living in Caribbean countries, international insurance providers like MSH International and Allianz Care offer plans that provide regional coverage under a single fee structure. A comprehensive policy from Allianz Care for a middle-aged man costs about $400 per month.
Caribbean Citizenship and Healthcare
If you plan on relocating to the Caribbean, you may be interested in obtaining Caribbean citizenship by investment to fully enjoy the benefits of healthcare in the Caribbean. Although every country has its own system, certain countries like Dominica and Grenada have national health insurance schemes, allowing tax-paying citizens to access free healthcare services.
Importance of Choosing a Caribbean Country with Quality Medical Care
Choosing a Caribbean country with good medical care is one of the top priorities when determining the best place to retire in the Caribbean. Most islands and regional health organizations have limited healthcare systems, posing added difficulties for residents with urgent medical needs or health conditions requiring specialized treatment.
Good healthcare starts with well-equipped hospitals, experienced doctors, and the readiness to respond to emergencies quickly. Caribbean countries with quality healthcare ensure a better quality of life for all citizens and residents, from retirees and families to children and those living with chronic conditions.
For expert guidance on relocation to the region, explore our comprehensive Caribbean Immigration Services designed to simplify visa and residency processes.
Factors influencing Caribbean healthcare quality
- Economic conditions: Countries with stable economies typically have better healthcare infrastructure.
- Population size: Overly large populations may face challenges with healthcare coverage, while tiny populations often mean limited healthcare systems.
- Colonial history: Some islands have healthcare systems influenced by former colonial powers.
Top Caribbean Healthcare Systems
Several Caribbean nations stand out for their reliable and effective healthcare systems, with Barbados and the Bahamas ranking among the best. These islands combine public and private healthcare options to provide a well-rounded service. Barbados is the island most known for meeting international standards, whereas Cuba is recognized for its impressive ratio of medical professionals to residents.
| Country | Doctors Per 1,000 People | Hospital Beds Per 1,000 People | Global Health Security Index Ranking | Life Expectancy at Birth |
| Cuba | 9.4 | 4.2 | 129 | 78.45 |
| Barbados | 3 | 5.7 | 98 | 76.49 |
| Antigua and Barbuda | 2.9 | 3.3 | 136 | 77.94 |
| Dominican Republic | 2.2 | 1.4 | 103 | 73.99 |
| St Kitts and Nevis | 3 | 4.3 | 122 | 72.3 |
| Trinidad and Tobago | 3.4 | 1.6 | 88 | 73.75 |
Best Hospitals in the Caribbean
Some of the Caribbean’s best hospitals include Hospital Auxilio Mutuo in Puerto Rico, which is equipped to Western standards and provides comprehensive care. Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Barbados is an acute care medical facility that is accredited for teaching practices and offers excellent patient care. Princess Margaret Hospital is a teaching hospital in Nassau, the Bahamas, offering a high standard of care provided by internationally trained medical professionals.
