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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Haiti | Expat Exchange
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Labadee, Haiti

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Haiti

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Dec 18, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Haiti is generally lower than in the United States. Haiti has a shortage of medical professionals and a lack of access to modern medical technology. Emergency services are limited and often unreliable. To call for an ambulance, one must contact the local police or fire department.

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How are healthcare services Haiti?

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

"Healthcare services in Haiti are limited and of poor quality. The public healthcare system is largely underfunded and understaffed, and the quality of care is generally low. Foreign residents do not have access to the public healthcare system, and instead must rely on private healthcare services. Expats in Haiti typically use private healthcare services, such as private clinics and hospitals, to access medical care. These services are often more expensive than public healthcare, but offer a higher quality of care," commented one expat who moved to Haiti.

What are medical services in Haiti like?

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

"Haiti has a limited number of medical services available, with most of the population relying on traditional healers for medical care. The country has a few hospitals and clinics, but they are often understaffed and lack basic medical supplies. The quality of care is often poor, and access to medical services is limited due to the high cost of care. Additionally, many Haitians lack access to clean water and sanitation, which can lead to the spread of infectious diseases," commented one expat who moved to Haiti.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Haiti?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Haiti are generally considered to be expensive. The cost of medical care is often prohibitively high for many Haitians, and the quality of care is often inadequate. Health insurance is also expensive and difficult to access, with many Haitians unable to afford the premiums. Additionally, the country's weak infrastructure and lack of resources make it difficult to access medical care in many areas," commented one expat who moved to Haiti.

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What are emergency services like in Haiti?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Haiti wrote:

"Emergency services in Haiti are limited and often unreliable. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to contact the local police station or fire station. It is also possible to call the local Red Cross or other humanitarian organizations for assistance. However, due to the limited resources available, response times can be slow and the quality of care may not be up to international standards," said an expat in Haiti.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Port-au-Prince is the largest city in Haiti and is home to many of the country's best medical specialists. The capital city is home to several hospitals and clinics, including the University Hospital of Haiti, which is one of the most advanced medical facilities in the Caribbean. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Cap-Haitien, Gonaives, and Jacmel. Additionally, the cities of Les Cayes and Petit-Goave are known for their excellent medical care," commented one expat living in Haiti.

Are common prescription medications available in Haiti?

"Prescription medications are available in Haiti, although the availability and quality of medications may vary. Many of the medications available are generic versions of brand-name drugs, and some medications may be imported from other countries. In addition, some medications may be available over the counter without a prescription. However, it is important to note that the quality of medications in Haiti may not be as reliable as those found in other countries," remarked one expat living in Haiti.

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

"The quality of medical facilities and medical care in Haiti is generally poor. Access to medical care is limited, and the majority of medical facilities are under-resourced and lack basic medical supplies. The quality of care is often inadequate, with limited access to specialized treatments and medications. Additionally, the cost of medical care is often prohibitively expensive for many Haitians," wrote one expat.

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

"Foreigners living in Haiti may have access to public healthcare, depending on their visa status. Public healthcare in Haiti is limited and often of poor quality, with inadequate facilities and a shortage of medical personnel. Many people rely on private healthcare, which is often expensive and out of reach for many Haitians," said one expat.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a devastating impact on Haiti's healthcare system. Many healthcare workers have been overworked and underpaid, leading to a shortage of medical personnel. The lack of resources has made it difficult for healthcare workers to provide adequate care to those in need. Additionally, the pandemic has caused a shortage of medical supplies, such as masks, gloves, and other protective equipment, making it difficult for healthcare workers to protect themselves and their patients. The pandemic has also caused a disruption in the supply chain, making it difficult to access essential medicines and other medical supplies. As a result, many people in Haiti have been unable to access the healthcare they need," mentioned one expat in Haiti.

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

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

"It is important to research the medical facilities available in Haiti before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in Haiti. It is also important to ensure that you have access to a safe and clean birthing environment. Additionally, it is important to have a plan in place for post-natal care, including access to a pediatrician and vaccinations. Finally, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Haiti, and to be prepared to adjust to them," said one expat in Haiti.

Are healthcare services good in Haiti?

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

"Healthcare services in Haiti are limited and often inadequate. Access to healthcare is limited due to a lack of infrastructure, resources, and trained personnel. Many Haitians lack access to basic medical care, and those who do have access often face long wait times and inadequate care. The quality of care is often poor, with limited access to medications, diagnostic tests, and specialized care. Additionally, the cost of healthcare is often prohibitively expensive for many Haitians, making it difficult for them to access the care they need," said one person in Haiti.

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.

Labadee, Haiti

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