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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Saint Lucia | Expat Exchange
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15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Saint Lucia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jul 25, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Saint Lucia is generally considered to be good, though it may not be as advanced as in the US. Emergency services are available and can be accessed by calling 911. Ambulance services are also available and can be called by dialing 999.

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How are healthcare services Saint Lucia?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Saint Lucia, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Saint Lucia are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Health and Wellness and is funded by the government. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a range of services available including primary care, hospital care, and specialist care. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, however, they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Saint Lucia can use the public healthcare system, however, they may need to pay for some services. Expats may also choose to use private healthcare services, which are generally of a higher quality than public services," said one expat.

What are medical services in Saint Lucia like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Saint Lucia, they replied:

"Saint Lucia 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, clinics, and health centers, providing a variety of medical services such as general practice, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and emergency care. The country also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the St. Jude Hospital, which provides specialized care for cancer patients. Additionally, there are a number of pharmacies and medical laboratories located throughout the country, providing access to medications and diagnostic tests," said one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Saint Lucia?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Saint Lucia can be expensive. The cost of medical care is high, and the cost of health insurance can be even higher. The cost of health insurance is often based on the type of coverage and the number of people covered. Additionally, the cost of health insurance can vary depending on the provider and the type of plan chosen," commented one expat who moved to Saint Lucia.

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What are emergency services like in Saint Lucia?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Saint Lucia wrote:

"Emergency services in Saint Lucia are provided by the Saint Lucia Fire Service, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, and the Saint Lucia Ambulance Service. In the event of an emergency, the public can call 911 to request assistance from the police, fire service, or ambulance service. The Saint Lucia Ambulance Service is equipped with modern ambulances and staffed with trained paramedics and emergency medical technicians. They are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to medical emergencies," said one expat.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The capital city of Castries is home to a wide variety of medical specialists, including general practitioners, surgeons, and specialists in cardiology, neurology, and oncology. The Rodney Bay area is also known for its selection of medical specialists, with a number of clinics and hospitals offering a range of services. Vieux Fort is another area with a good selection of medical specialists, including specialists in obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, and pediatrics. Soufriere is also home to a number of medical specialists, including those specializing in dermatology, ophthalmology, and psychiatry," mentioned one expat in Saint Lucia.

Are common prescription medications available in Saint Lucia?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Saint Lucia. Most pharmacies in the country carry a wide range of medications, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other medications used to treat common illnesses. In addition, many pharmacies also offer over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers, cold and flu remedies, and vitamins," commented one expat who moved to Saint Lucia.

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Saint Lucia?

"Medical facilities and medical care in Saint Lucia are generally of a high quality. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. The government has invested heavily in the healthcare system, and there are a range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, and emergency services. The country also has a number of private medical facilities, offering a range of treatments and services. In general, the quality of medical care in Saint Lucia is good, and the country is well-equipped to handle most medical needs," commented one expat living in Saint Lucia.

As a foreigner living in Saint Lucia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Saint Lucia, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Saint Lucia is generally considered to be of good quality, with a range of services available including primary care, specialist care, and emergency services. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and permanent residents. However, foreigners may be required to pay for some services," remarked one expat in Saint Lucia.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the local healthcare system in Saint Lucia. The government has implemented a number of measures to protect the health and safety of the population, including the closure of the borders, the introduction of a curfew, and the implementation of social distancing protocols. The healthcare system has also had to adapt to the new reality, with the introduction of telemedicine services, the expansion of testing capacity, and the implementation of contact tracing. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system has been stretched to its limits, with long wait times for appointments and limited access to medical supplies," commented one expat who moved to Saint Lucia.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Saint Lucia?

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

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Saint Lucia before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in the country. 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 enjoy the beauty of Saint Lucia and the joy of having a baby in such a wonderful place," explained one expat living in Saint Lucia.

Are healthcare services good in Saint Lucia?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Saint Lucia. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in Saint Lucia are provided by both public and private institutions. The public sector is managed by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, which is responsible for the provision of primary healthcare services, including preventive and curative care. Private healthcare services are provided by a number of private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers. The country also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the St. Jude Hospital, which provides specialized care for cancer patients. In addition, there are a number of pharmacies and health centers that provide basic medical services. The government also provides free healthcare services to the elderly and those with low incomes," remarked one in Saint Lucia.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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