11 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Guam
Last updated on Feb 12, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Guam is generally comparable to that of the US. Emergency services are available and can be accessed by calling 911. Ambulance services are also available and can be requested by calling 911.
How are healthcare services Guam?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Guam, they replied:
"Guam offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. The island is home to several hospitals and medical facilities, including Guam Regional Medical City, Guam Memorial Hospital, and the Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center. These facilities provide a variety of services, such as general medical care, mental health services, and emergency care. Additionally, Guam has a number of private clinics and medical centers that offer specialized care. The best hospitals and medical facilities are located in the capital city of Hagåtña, as well as in the villages of Dededo, Tamuning, and Mangilao," said one expat living in Guam.
What are medical services in Guam like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Guam, they replied:
"Guam has a wide range of medical services available to its residents. The island is home to several hospitals, including Guam Regional Medical City, Guam Memorial Hospital, and the U.S. Naval Hospital Guam. These hospitals provide a variety of services, including emergency care, general medical care, and specialty care. Additionally, Guam has a number of private clinics and medical centers that offer a range of services, including primary care, mental health services, and dental care. Guam also has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores, providing residents with access to the medications and supplies they need," wrote an expat living in Guam.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Guam?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Guam can be expensive. The cost of healthcare services is generally higher than in the mainland United States, and health insurance premiums can be costly. Additionally, many health insurance plans in Guam have high deductibles and co-pays, making it difficult for some people to afford the care they need," said one expat.
What are emergency services like in Guam?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Guam wrote:
"In Guam, emergency services are provided by the Guam Fire Department. To call for an ambulance, dial 911. The Guam Fire Department also provides fire and rescue services, hazardous materials response, and other emergency services," remarked one expat in Guam.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Guam's two major cities, Hagåtña and Tamuning, both offer a wide selection of medical specialists, with a variety of clinics and hospitals available. The village of Dededo also offers various specialists, including dentists and orthopedists. Furthermore, Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC) in Tamuning is the island's largest hospital, and thus offers a wide array of specialists for both medical and surgical treatments," said an expat in Guam.
Are common prescription medications available in Guam?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Guam. Most pharmacies in Guam carry a wide variety of medications, including both over-the-counter and prescription medications. Many of the medications available in Guam are the same as those available in the United States, although some may be more expensive due to import costs. Additionally, some medications may not be available in Guam due to local regulations," mentioned one expat in Guam.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Guam?
"The medical facilities and medical care in Guam are of a high standard. The island boasts several comprehensive hospitals with modern equipment and experienced medical professionals. However, the health infrastructure is not fully equipped to meet the entire healthcare needs of a growing population and there are some shortages of basic medications and supplies. In addition, due to a lack of local specialists, expatriated medical professionals may be needed for more advanced medical procedures," commented one expat living in Guam.
As a foreigner living in Guam, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Guam, you will have access to public healthcare. Guam has a public healthcare system that is funded by the government and provides basic medical services to all residents, regardless of their nationality. The public healthcare system in Guam is generally considered to be of good quality, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, emergency care, and specialty care. The public healthcare system also provides access to preventive care, such as vaccinations and screenings, as well as mental health services," mentioned one expat in Guam.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Guam if they have access to public healthcare in Guam. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Guam. The local healthcare system has had to adjust to the influx of patients seeking care for COVID-19, while also continuing to provide care for other medical needs. The healthcare system has had to implement new protocols and procedures to ensure the safety of both patients and staff. This has included the use of telemedicine, increased testing, and the implementation of social distancing measures. Despite the challenges, the healthcare system in Guam has been able to provide quality care to those in need," wrote an expat living in Guam.
About the Author
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.