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Expat Exchange - Health Care in Queenstown 2024
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Health Care in Queenstown

By Joshua Wood, LPC

SJB Global
SJB Global

Summary: Dive into healthcare resources for expats and digital nomads in Queenstown: identify leading healthcare providers, hospitals, and medical centers for optimal care.

Queenstown offers a range of healthcare services for both residents and visitors. The healthcare system in the country consists of both public and private sectors, providing quality medical care to those in need.

New Zealand's Healthcare System

New Zealand's public healthcare system, known as the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC), provides free or subsidized healthcare services to residents, including foreigners with a valid work visa or residency permit. Public hospitals in Queenstown are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. A typical public hospital in Queenstown offers a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient and outpatient services, and specialist consultations. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in New Zealand if they meet certain eligibility criteria. However, many expats prefer to use private hospitals for their healthcare needs. Private hospitals in Queenstown are known for their high-quality care, modern facilities, and shorter waiting times, making them a popular choice for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Queenstown

Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Queenstown include:

  • Lakes District Hospital (public) - located in Frankton, offering emergency care, inpatient and outpatient services, and specialist consultations.
  • Queenstown Medical Centre (private) - located in central Queenstown, offering general practice and specialist services.
  • Remarkables Park Medical Centre (private) - located in Frankton, offering general practice and specialist services.
In case of specialized medical care or surgeries not available in Queenstown, expats may need to travel to larger cities such as Dunedin or Christchurch, which are approximately 3-4 hours away by car.

Emergency Services in Queenstown

Queenstown has ambulance services available for emergencies. To call for an ambulance, dial 111 and ask for the ambulance service. Ambulance response times may vary depending on the location and severity of the emergency, but they generally arrive promptly to provide assistance.

Health Insurance Companies in Queenstown

Popular private health insurance companies in Queenstown include Southern Cross Health Society, nib, and Accuro Health Insurance. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans to suit different needs and budgets. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers, depending on their preferences and requirements.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.


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