Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Bali, Indonesia

"Healthcare services in Bali, consist of a mix of public and private facilities, catering to both locals and tourists. The public healthcare system includes government-run hospitals, community health centers, and smaller clinics, which offer basic medical services at affordable rates. However, these facilities may not always meet international standards, and the quality of care can vary significantly. On the other hand, private healthcare facilities in Bali are generally of higher quality, with modern equipment and well-trained medical staff. These facilities cater to a wide range of medical needs, including general practice, specialist consultations, dental care, and emergency services. Many private hospitals and clinics in Bali have affiliations with international healthcare providers, ensuring a high standard of care for patients. Despite the availability of quality private healthcare services, it is essential for visitors to Bali to have comprehensive travel insurance, as medical costs can be high, and not all services may be covered by local insurance providers. Additionally, for complex medical procedures or emergencies, patients may need to be evacuated to nearby countries like Singapore or Australia, which can be costly. Pharmacies are widely available throughout Bali, offering a range of over-the-counter and prescription medications. However, it is advisable to bring essential medications from home, as not all drugs may be available or may be of different quality. Overall, healthcare services in Bali are accessible and cater to various needs, but it is crucial for visitors to be prepared and have adequate insurance coverage to ensure they receive the best possible care," commented one expat living in Bali, Indonesia.

"It's very important to have health insurance and if you're on an international scheme, then have the documents on the ready to give proof. If you don't have healthcare insurance, be prepared to pay a pretty penny when sorting health bills," wrote one expat.

"Medical services in Bali, are a mix of public and private healthcare facilities. The public healthcare system is generally considered to be of lower quality, with limited resources, outdated equipment, and long waiting times. Private hospitals and clinics, on the other hand, offer better quality care, modern facilities, and English-speaking staff. However, private healthcare can be expensive, and it is recommended for visitors to have comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical expenses. In case of emergencies, patients may need to be evacuated to Singapore or Australia for more advanced treatment, as Bali's medical infrastructure may not be equipped to handle complex cases. Pharmacies are widely available, but it is essential to ensure that medications are genuine and not counterfeit. Overall, while basic medical services are accessible in Bali, it is crucial for visitors to take necessary precautions and be prepared for potential limitations in the healthcare system," remarked one expat living in Bali.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Bali, can be considered relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. However, the cost of healthcare services and insurance premiums may vary depending on the type of coverage, medical facility, and treatment required. Public healthcare facilities in Bali are generally cheaper but may not offer the same quality of care as private hospitals. Expats and tourists often opt for private healthcare facilities, which provide better quality care but at a higher cost. Health insurance is recommended for those living or traveling in Bali, as it can help cover the expenses of medical treatments and emergencies. Some expats may find that international health insurance policies offer more comprehensive coverage and flexibility than local Indonesian policies. Overall, while healthcare and health insurance in Bali may be more affordable than in some countries, it is essential to research and choose the appropriate coverage and facilities to suit individual needs and budgets," commented one expat living in Bali, Indonesia.

"My kids and I all had dengue fever at the same time and were taken very well care of at BIMC, Nusa Dua. I am so pleased we had health insurance because the hospital bill would have cost us a hefty US $2100," wrote one expat.

"Emergency services in Bali, are available to assist in various situations, including medical emergencies, fires, and accidents. The emergency services consist of ambulance services, fire brigades, and police. To call for an ambulance in Bali, you can dial the local emergency number, which is 118. It is important to note that response times may vary depending on the location and traffic conditions. Additionally, the quality of emergency medical care in Bali may not be up to the standards of more developed countries, so it is recommended to have travel insurance and consider evacuation options in case of a serious medical emergency," mentioned one expat in Bali.

"There are many clinics and hospitals [in Bali] that are privately owned, but the ones in rural areas are staffed by people who speak little English. The most most popular hospital is BIMC in Nusa Dua which offers superb healthcare," commented one expat who moved to Bali, Indonesia.

"Yes, there are a good number of medical specialists in Bali. The island has several well-equipped hospitals and clinics that cater to various medical needs. For highly specialized medical care, people often visit private hospitals such as BIMC Hospital, Siloam Hospital, and Kasih Ibu Hospital, which are known for their advanced facilities and experienced specialists. Additionally, Sanglah General Hospital, a public hospital in Denpasar, is also a popular choice for specialized care as it serves as a referral center for hospitals across Bali. In some cases, patients may travel to other cities in Indonesia, like Jakarta, or even abroad to access more advanced treatments or specialized care," said one expat living in Bali.

"One can get the right healthcare needed in any area you are in, but not all have the same superior quality like at BIMC. An efficient ambulance service is available at BIMC. Taxis run 24/7 and they are another option to use when in an emergency. It is so important to have health insurance as costs can be hefty if one is hospitalized for serious issues," mentioned one expat in Bali.

"Most drugs are easily available at pharmacies that are dotted everywhere. Most antibiotics can be bought over the counter, at a cost much less than in Europe," mentioned one expat in Bali.

"Common prescription medications are generally available in Bali. You can find them in local pharmacies, also known as "apoteks" or "apotik," which are widely spread across the island. These pharmacies stock a range of medications, including antibiotics, pain relievers, and medications for chronic conditions. However, the availability of specific medications may vary, and some pharmacies may not carry certain brands or dosages. It is advisable to bring a sufficient supply of your prescription medications when traveling to Bali or consult a local doctor for an alternative prescription if needed," commented one expat who moved to Bali, Indonesia.

"As a foreigner living in Bali, you will have access to public healthcare, but the quality and availability of services may vary. Public healthcare facilities in Bali are generally not up to the standards of those in Western countries, with limited resources, outdated equipment, and long waiting times. Many expats and tourists prefer to use private healthcare facilities, which offer better quality care but at a higher cost. It is recommended to have comprehensive health insurance to cover any medical expenses while living in Bali," commented one expat living in Bali, Indonesia.

"I am an AI language model, and I do not have personal experiences. However, I can provide you with general information about the healthcare system in Bali during the pandemic. During the pandemic, the healthcare system in Bali, has faced several challenges, including a lack of medical facilities, limited resources, and an overwhelmed healthcare workforce. Many people have reported difficulties in accessing COVID-19 testing and treatment, as well as delays in receiving test results. Additionally, hospitals have been struggling to accommodate the increasing number of patients, leading to overcrowded facilities and limited availability of ICU beds and ventilators. Despite these challenges, the local government and healthcare workers have been working tirelessly to provide care and support to those affected by the virus," commented one expat who moved to Bali.