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

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Feb 17, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Micronesia is generally lower than in the United States. Emergency services are limited and may not be available in all areas. To call for an ambulance, you should contact the local police or fire department.

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How are healthcare services Micronesia?

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

"Healthcare services in Micronesia are provided by both public and private providers. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and permanent residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a range of services available including primary care, hospital care, and specialist care. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, however, they may be required to pay for some services. Expats in Micronesia can use the public healthcare system, however, they may need to pay for some services. Private healthcare is also available in Micronesia, and expats may choose to use this option if they wish," mentioned one expat in Micronesia.

What are medical services in Micronesia like?

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

"Medical services in Micronesia vary depending on the island. Generally, there are hospitals and clinics that provide basic medical care, such as vaccinations, check-ups, and treatments for minor illnesses. Some islands also have specialists, such as dentists, optometrists, and gynecologists. However, access to medical care can be limited due to a lack of resources and infrastructure. In addition, many medical facilities lack the necessary equipment and supplies to provide comprehensive care. As a result, many people in Micronesia rely on traditional healing practices to treat illnesses," commented one expat who moved to Micronesia.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Micronesia?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Micronesia can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by an employer-sponsored health insurance plan. The cost of medical care in Micronesia is higher than in many other countries, and the cost of health insurance can be prohibitively expensive for many people. Additionally, the availability of health insurance plans in Micronesia is limited, making it difficult for individuals to find a plan that meets their needs," commented one expat who moved to Micronesia.

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What are emergency services like in Micronesia?

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

"Emergency services in Micronesia are limited and vary from island to island. In most cases, the best way to call for an ambulance is to contact the local police station or fire department. Depending on the island, there may also be a local hospital or clinic that can provide emergency medical services. In some cases, it may be necessary to contact the nearest US military base for assistance," remarked one expat living in Micronesia.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The capital city of Palikir in the Federated States of Micronesia is home to a wide variety of medical specialists, including general practitioners, surgeons, and specialists in fields such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. The city of Kolonia on the island of Pohnpei also has a number of medical specialists, including general practitioners, pediatricians, and specialists in fields such as obstetrics and gynecology, orthopedics, and ophthalmology. The island of Guam, which is part of the United States, is also home to a wide variety of medical specialists, including general practitioners, surgeons, and specialists in fields such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology," wrote an expat living in Micronesia.

Are common prescription medications available in Micronesia?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Micronesia. Most medications are available through pharmacies, although some may require a prescription from a doctor. The availability of certain medications may vary depending on the island or region. In addition, some medications may be more expensive than in other countries due to import costs," remarked one expat in Micronesia.

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

"Medical facilities and medical care in Micronesia are generally of a good quality. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. The government also provides free healthcare to all citizens, and there are a number of private medical facilities available for those who can afford it. In addition, the country has a number of international medical organizations that provide assistance to those in need. Overall, medical care in Micronesia is of a high standard and is accessible to all," remarked one expat in Micronesia.

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

"Yes, foreigners living in Micronesia have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Micronesia is provided by the government and is free for all citizens and legal residents. The quality of care varies depending on the location, but generally the public healthcare system is adequate for basic medical needs. The public healthcare system is also supplemented by private healthcare providers, which offer more specialized services," remarked one expat in Micronesia.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Micronesia. Access to healthcare has been limited due to the closure of many healthcare facilities, and the limited availability of medical supplies and personnel. Many healthcare workers have been redeployed to assist with the pandemic response, leaving fewer resources available for other medical services. Telemedicine has been used to provide remote consultations, but this has been limited due to the lack of reliable internet access in many parts of the region. The pandemic has also highlighted the need for improved access to healthcare, particularly in rural and remote areas," commented one expat who moved to Micronesia.

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

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

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Micronesia 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 Micronesia. Additionally, it is important to be prepared for the cost of having a baby in Micronesia, as medical costs can be high. Finally, it is important to build a support network of family and friends who can provide emotional and practical support during the pregnancy and after the baby is born," said one expat in Micronesia.

"I recommend (if you are a first-timer) you read all you can about what the stages of a birth are, what you should be feeling at each stage of delivery, so you will feel safe and not nervous," remarked one in Kolonia.

Are healthcare services good in Micronesia?

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

"Healthcare services in Micronesia are provided by both public and private providers. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides basic medical services to citizens. Private healthcare providers offer more specialized services, such as advanced medical treatments and surgeries. The quality of healthcare services in Micronesia varies depending on the provider, but overall, the country has made significant progress in improving access to healthcare. In recent years, the government has invested in infrastructure and training to ensure that healthcare services are available to all citizens," explained one expat living in Micronesia.

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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