Health Care in Marigot Bay
Summary: Learn about the health system in Marigot Bay: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Marigot Bay.
The healthcare system in Marigot Bay consists of both public and private facilities, providing medical services to locals, expats, and tourists. The public healthcare system, known as the Saint Lucia Ministry of Health and Wellness, offers basic medical services, while private hospitals and clinics provide more specialized care.
Saint Lucia's Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in Saint Lucia is managed by the Saint Lucia Ministry of Health and Wellness. It provides basic medical services to locals and foreigners, including expats and digital nomads. However, public hospitals in Marigot Bay are not typically recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgeries due to limited resources and long waiting times. Public hospitals in Marigot Bay are often crowded, and the quality of care may not be up to the standards expected by foreigners. Expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Saint Lucia, but they primarily opt for private hospitals for better quality care. Private hospitals are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, as they offer more specialized care and better facilities.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Marigot Bay
There are limited healthcare facilities in Marigot Bay itself, but expats can access medical services at nearby hospitals and clinics. Some recommended facilities include:
- Tapion Hospital (private) - located in Castries, approximately 30 minutes by car from Marigot Bay
- Victoria Hospital (public) - located in Castries, approximately 30 minutes by car from Marigot Bay
- St. Jude Hospital (public) - located in Vieux Fort, approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car from Marigot Bay
- Euromed Clinic (private) - located in Rodney Bay, approximately 45 minutes by car from Marigot Bay
In case of emergencies or specialized medical care, expats in Marigot Bay typically visit these hospitals and clinics for treatment.
Emergency Services in Marigot Bay
Ambulance services are available in Marigot Bay, but response times may vary depending on the location and availability of resources. To call for an ambulance, dial 911 or the local emergency number, 999. It is important to note that there may be delays in ambulance services, especially in remote areas or during peak hours.
Health Insurance Companies in Marigot Bay
Popular private health insurance companies in Marigot Bay include Sagicor Life Inc., Guardian Life of the Caribbean, and Pan-American Life Insurance Group. These companies offer various health insurance plans catering to the needs of locals, expats, and digital nomads. However, expats and digital nomads may prefer to use specialized expat health insurance providers for more comprehensive coverage and international support.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.