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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Antigua & Barbuda | Expat Exchange
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Antigua and Barbuda

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Antigua & Barbuda

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 06, 2024

Summary: The quality of medical care in Antigua & Barbuda is generally considered to be good, though it may not be as advanced as the medical care available in the United States. Emergency services are available and can be accessed by calling 911. Ambulance services are also available and can be called by dialing 911 or the local emergency number, which is 511.

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How are healthcare services Antigua & Barbuda?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Antigua & Barbuda, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Antigua & Barbuda are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and legal residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a range of services available including primary care, hospital care, and specialist care. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Antigua & Barbuda can use the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for certain services. Private healthcare is also available, and many expats choose to use private healthcare providers for more specialized services," mentioned one expat in Antigua & Barbuda.

What are medical services in Antigua & Barbuda like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Antigua & Barbuda, they replied:

"Antigua & Barbuda has a well-developed healthcare system, with a range of medical services available to its citizens. The country has a number of public and private hospitals, as well as a number of clinics and health centers. The public hospitals provide a range of services, including general medical care, emergency services, and specialist care. Private hospitals offer a range of services, including general medical care, specialist care, and cosmetic surgery. The country also has a number of pharmacies, which provide a range of over-the-counter medications. Additionally, there are a number of medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and dentists, who provide medical services to the population," said an expat in Antigua & Barbuda.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Antigua & Barbuda?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Antigua & Barbuda can be expensive, especially for those without insurance. The cost of medical care is high, and the cost of health insurance can be even higher. The government provides some assistance to those who cannot afford health insurance, but it is not always enough to cover the full cost of care. Additionally, the quality of care can vary depending on the provider, so it is important to do research before selecting a provider," wrote one expat.

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What are emergency services like in Antigua & Barbuda?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Antigua & Barbuda wrote:

"Emergency services in Antigua & Barbuda are provided by the Antigua & Barbuda Fire & Rescue Service and the Royal Police Force of Antigua & Barbuda. In the event of an emergency, the public can call 911 to request an ambulance. The ambulance service is free of charge and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The ambulance service is staffed by trained medical personnel and is equipped with the necessary medical equipment to provide emergency medical care," commented one expat who moved to Antigua & Barbuda.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The capital of Antigua & Barbuda, St. John's, is home to the largest array of medical specialists in the country. The nearby settlements of All Saints, Liberta and Bolans are also known for having plenty of well-renowned specialists in the medical field. Other noteworthy locations for finding medical specialists in Antigua & Barbuda include the village of Crab Hill and the towns of Parham and English Harbour. Overall, the island nation provides excellent care for patients and offers a great selection of medical specialists throughout its many cities and villages," wrote an expat living in Antigua & Barbuda.

Are common prescription medications available in Antigua & Barbuda?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Antigua & Barbuda. Most pharmacies in the country carry a wide range of medications, including antibiotics, pain relievers, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other common medications. In addition, many pharmacies also offer over-the-counter medications, such as vitamins and supplements," commented one expat who moved to Antigua & Barbuda.

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Antigua & Barbuda?

"Medical care in Antigua & Barbuda is provided at an adequate level. There are a few hospitals, a handful of clinics and several health centers on both the main islands and nearby smaller islands. The hospitals and clinics are generally well-maintained and staffed with qualified medical personnel, including specialist medical doctors and qualified nurses. In addition, basic medical services such as dental and optometry care are available. The country is also well-equipped with modern medical equipment and a variety of diagnostic tools. Overall, the quality of medical care provided in Antigua & Barbuda is sufficient to meet the needs of the local population," wrote one expat.

As a foreigner living in Antigua & Barbuda, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, foreigners living in Antigua & Barbuda have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Antigua & Barbuda is generally considered to be of good quality, with a wide range of services available. The country has a number of public hospitals and clinics, as well as a number of private healthcare providers. The public healthcare system is funded by the government, and is free for citizens and permanent residents. However, foreigners may be required to pay for some services," commented one expat living in Antigua & Barbuda.

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Antigua & Barbuda if they have access to public healthcare in Antigua & Barbuda. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"The healthcare system in Antigua & Barbuda has been strained during the pandemic, with limited resources and a lack of medical personnel. The government has implemented a number of measures to help contain the spread of the virus, including travel restrictions, mandatory quarantine for travelers, and the closure of non-essential businesses. Despite these measures, the number of cases has continued to rise, and the healthcare system has been overwhelmed. The government has responded by increasing the number of beds in hospitals and providing additional medical personnel, but the demand for healthcare services has still been high. As a result, many people have had to wait for long periods of time to receive medical care," mentioned one expat in Antigua & Barbuda.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Antigua & Barbuda?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Antigua & Barbuda about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Antigua & Barbuda before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in the area. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations regarding childbirth and parenting. Additionally, it is a good idea to connect with other expat parents in the area to get advice and support. Finally, make sure to take time to relax and enjoy the experience of having a baby in Antigua & Barbuda," explained one expat.

Are healthcare services good in Antigua & Barbuda?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Antigua & Barbuda. They wrote:

"Antigua & Barbuda has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country also has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer a range of medical services. The government provides free healthcare to children under the age of five and to pregnant women. The country also has a number of health centers that provide primary care services such as immunizations, family planning, and maternal and child health services. Additionally, there are a number of specialized medical centers that provide services such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics," said one person in Antigua & Barbuda.

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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