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

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 06, 2024

Summary: The quality of medical care in Kiribati is generally lower than in the US. Medical facilities are limited and often lack the necessary equipment and resources to provide adequate care. Emergency services are limited and may not be available in all areas. To call for an ambulance, one would need to contact the local police station or hospital.

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Cigna Global Health
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Cigna Global Health

How are healthcare services Kiribati?

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

"Kiribati has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Kiribati is generally considered to be adequate, although there are some shortages of medical supplies and personnel. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Kiribati generally use the public healthcare system, although they may also opt to use private healthcare services if they are available," remarked one expat living in Kiribati.

What are medical services in Kiribati like?

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

"Kiribati has a limited number of medical services available. The main hospital is located in the capital city of South Tarawa, and there are a few smaller health centers located on other islands. The medical services available include basic primary care, emergency care, and some specialized services such as obstetrics and gynecology. However, due to limited resources, the quality of care is not always up to the standards of other countries. Additionally, there is a shortage of medical personnel, and many of the medical staff are not adequately trained. As a result, access to medical care can be difficult for many people in Kiribati," said one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kiribati?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Kiribati can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government's health insurance scheme. The cost of medical care and health insurance can be prohibitive for many people, and the quality of care can be variable. Additionally, access to medical care can be limited in some areas, making it difficult for people to receive the care they need," commented one expat living in Kiribati.

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What are emergency services like in Kiribati?

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

"Emergency services in Kiribati are limited due to the country's small population and remote location. Ambulance services are provided by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, and can be called by dialing 911. However, due to the limited resources available, response times may be longer than in other countries. Additionally, medical care is limited and may not be up to the same standards as in other countries," commented one expat living in Kiribati.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The capital city of Tarawa is home to the largest selection of medical specialists in Kiribati. The city of Betio, located on the island of South Tarawa, also has a good selection of medical specialists. Other areas in Kiribati with a good selection of medical specialists include the islands of Abaiang, Maiana, and Nonouti," wrote an expat living in Kiribati.

Are common prescription medications available in Kiribati?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Kiribati. Most medications are imported from overseas, and are available at pharmacies and hospitals. However, some medications may not be available due to limited supply or lack of availability. Additionally, some medications may require a doctor's prescription before they can be purchased," commented one expat living in Kiribati.

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

"Medical facilities and medical care in Kiribati are limited. The country has only one hospital, the Tungaru Central Hospital, which is located in the capital city of Tarawa. The hospital provides basic medical services, but lacks the resources and personnel to provide more specialized care. There are also a few health centers located throughout the country, but they are often understaffed and lack the necessary equipment and supplies. In addition, access to medical care is limited due to the country's remote location and lack of transportation," remarked one expat living in Kiribati.

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

"Yes, foreigners living in Kiribati have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Kiribati is relatively basic, with limited resources and facilities. However, the government is working to improve the quality of healthcare services, and there are a few private clinics and hospitals that offer more comprehensive services. The quality of care varies depending on the location and the availability of resources," remarked one expat living in Kiribati.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Kiribati. The government has implemented a number of measures to protect the population from the virus, including travel restrictions, social distancing, and the closure of schools and non-essential businesses. Despite these measures, the healthcare system has been strained due to the lack of resources and personnel. The government has been working to increase the number of healthcare workers and to provide additional medical supplies, but the demand for healthcare services has still been high. Additionally, the pandemic has caused a disruption in the delivery of essential services, such as vaccinations and antenatal care. Despite these challenges, the healthcare system in Kiribati has been able to provide essential services to the population and has been able to respond to the pandemic in a timely manner," remarked one expat in Kiribati.

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

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

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Kiribati 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 be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Kiribati. Additionally, it is important to be prepared for the possibility of having to travel to another country for medical care if necessary. Finally, it is important to be aware of the resources available to expats in Kiribati, such as support groups and other expat organizations," explained one expat living in Kiribati.

Are healthcare services good in Kiribati?

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

"Kiribati has a limited healthcare system, with most of the services provided by the government. The main hospital is located in the capital, Tarawa, and there are a few smaller health centers located on the outer islands. The government provides basic medical care, including vaccinations, maternal and child health services, and treatment for common illnesses. However, access to specialized care is limited, and many people must travel to other countries for more advanced treatments. Additionally, there is a shortage of healthcare professionals, and many of the existing healthcare workers lack the necessary training and resources to provide quality care," said one expat in Kiribati.

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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