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Expat Exchange - Understanding the Health System in Dominica
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Scotts Head, Dominica


Understanding the Health System in Dominica

By Joshua Wood, LPC

SJB Global
SJB Global

Summary: Gain insight into the health care system in Dominica. Explore its accessibility and limitations for expatriates, remote workers, retirees, and others who choose to live in Dominica.

The healthcare system in Dominica is a combination of public and private healthcare. The public healthcare system is provided by the Ministry of Health and Social Services and is free for citizens and permanent residents. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Dominica, however, it is not widely used by foreigners. People generally recommend using public hospitals for minor medical issues, but for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, private hospitals are recommended. Public hospitals in Dominica are generally well-equipped and staffed, however, they may not have the latest technology and may not be as well-maintained as private hospitals.

Dominica's Private Healthcare System

Dominica's private healthcare system is made up of several private hospitals and clinics. Private medical care is more expensive than public healthcare, but it is generally of a higher quality. Expats primarily use private hospitals, as they are more likely to have the latest technology and be better maintained. People generally recommend using private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in Dominica are generally well-equipped and staffed, and offer a higher quality of care than public hospitals.

Dominica's Top Hospitals

The most well-known hospitals in Dominica include:

  • Princess Margaret Hospital (public, Roseau)
  • Dominica China Friendship Hospital (public, Roseau)
  • Dominica Eye Care Centre (private, Roseau)
  • Dominica Fertility Centre (private, Roseau)
  • Dominica Cardiac Centre (private, Roseau)

Health Insurance Companies in Dominica

The most popular private health insurers in Dominica are Sagicor Life Inc., Guardian Life Insurance Company, and National Health Insurance Corporation. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

Insider Tips from Expats in Dominica: How to Navigate the Health System

"Dominica has a well-developed healthcare system, with a number of public and private hospitals and clinics providing medical services. The country has a number of highly trained doctors and nurses, and the quality of care is generally good. The government provides free healthcare to all citizens, and there are also a number of private health insurance plans available. Dominica also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Princess Margaret Hospital, which provides advanced medical care for cancer patients. Additionally, there are a number of pharmacies and health centers located throughout the country, providing access to essential medications and treatments," commented one member living in Dominica.

"Dominica has a public healthcare system that provides a range of services to its citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare in Dominica is generally good, with a number of hospitals and clinics providing basic medical care. Expats in Dominica can access the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. The public healthcare system offers a range of services, including primary care, preventive care, emergency care, and specialist care. Expats in Dominica can use the public healthcare system for basic medical care, although they may need to pay for some services. In addition, private healthcare is available in Dominica, with a number of private hospitals and clinics offering a range of services," commented one member living in Dominica.

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.


SJB Global
SJB Global

SJB Global
SJB Global

Scotts Head, Dominica

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Cigna Global Health

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