15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Brunei
Last updated on Jan 03, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Brunei is generally considered to be good, with modern facilities and well-trained medical staff. However, it is not as advanced as the medical care available in the United States. Emergency services are available in Brunei, and you can call for an ambulance by dialing 991.
How are healthcare services Brunei?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Brunei, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Brunei are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and is funded by the government. It provides a range of services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive health services. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Brunei can use the public healthcare system by registering with the Ministry of Health and obtaining a medical card. They may also be able to access private healthcare services, depending on their insurance coverage," said one expat.
What are medical services in Brunei like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Brunei, they replied:
"Brunei offers a comprehensive range of medical services, including both public and private healthcare. The public healthcare system is free for citizens and permanent residents, and provides a wide range of services, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. Private healthcare is also available, and is generally of a high standard. Brunei also has a number of specialist medical centers, such as the Brunei Cardiac Centre and the Brunei Eye Centre, which provide advanced medical care. In addition, Brunei has a number of international hospitals, such as the Jerudong Park Medical Centre, which offer a range of medical services," wrote one expat.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Brunei?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Brunei are generally considered to be quite expensive. The cost of medical care is high, and the cost of health insurance is also high. The government provides some subsidies for healthcare, but these are limited and do not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the cost of private health insurance is often too expensive for many people in Brunei," said an expat in Brunei.
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What are emergency services like in Brunei?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Brunei wrote:
"Emergency services in Brunei are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the public can call 991 for an ambulance. The ambulance service is provided by the Fire and Rescue Department of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The ambulance service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The ambulance service is free of charge and is staffed by trained medical personnel. In addition to the ambulance service, the Fire and Rescue Department also provides firefighting services, search and rescue operations, and hazardous material response," said an expat in Brunei.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"The capital city of Bandar Seri Begawan is home to the largest selection of medical specialists in Brunei. Other cities such as Kuala Belait, Seria, and Tutong also have a wide range of medical specialists available. Additionally, the Jerudong Park Medical Centre in Jerudong is a world-class medical facility that offers a comprehensive range of medical services," wrote an expat living in Brunei.
Are common prescription medications available in Brunei?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Brunei. Most medications can be obtained from pharmacies, with a valid prescription from a licensed medical practitioner. Some medications may require special approval from the Ministry of Health, and may not be available in Brunei," commented one expat who moved to Brunei.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Brunei?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Brunei are of a high standard. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a range of modern hospitals and clinics providing quality care. The government provides free healthcare to all citizens, and there are a number of private medical facilities available for those who can afford it. The country also has a number of specialist medical centers, such as the Brunei Heart Centre, which provide advanced treatments for a range of conditions. In addition, Brunei has a number of highly trained medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are dedicated to providing quality care to their patients," remarked one expat in Brunei.
As a foreigner living in Brunei, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Brunei have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Brunei is comprehensive and provides a wide range of services, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital care. The public healthcare system is well-funded and provides high-quality care, with a focus on preventive care and health promotion. The government also subsidizes the cost of healthcare for those who cannot afford it," wrote an expat living in Brunei.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Brunei if they have access to public healthcare in Brunei. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Brunei during the pandemic have been positive. The government has taken proactive steps to ensure the safety of its citizens, such as introducing a contact tracing system and providing free testing for those who may have been exposed to the virus. The healthcare system has also been quick to respond to any potential cases, with medical staff providing prompt and efficient care. Additionally, the government has provided financial assistance to those who have been affected by the pandemic, such as providing subsidies for medical bills and food. Overall, the healthcare system in Brunei has been effective in responding to the pandemic and providing necessary support to its citizens," remarked one expat in Brunei.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Brunei?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Brunei about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Brunei before having a baby there. Make sure to find a doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in Brunei and who speaks your language. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations regarding childbirth and parenting. Additionally, it is a good idea to join a local expat group or forum to connect with other expats who have had babies in Brunei and can provide advice and support. Finally, make sure to take time to relax and enjoy the experience of having a baby in Brunei," remarked one in Brunei.
Are healthcare services good in Brunei?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Brunei. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Brunei are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides free or low-cost services to citizens. The public system includes hospitals, clinics, and health centers. Private healthcare services are also available and are generally of a higher quality than the public system. These services are provided by private hospitals, clinics, and health centers. Brunei also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized care for certain conditions. In addition, Brunei has a number of pharmacies and health stores that provide a range of medicines and health products," wrote a person living in Brunei.
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.