How does healthcare work in Antigua and Barbuda, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Antigua and Barbuda?

A small country that offers not only beautiful beaches, but also top notch healthcare to locals and expats - that's Antigua and Barbuda. With an average life expectancy of 79 years (2021), you can live a pleasant and healthy life here!
In Antigua and Barbuda you will find both private and public healthcare of good quality and at relatively low costs.
Since English is the first language, you don't have to worry about a language barrier.
Mount St. John's Medical Center is one of the most advanced hospitals in the Caribbean and has a small location on Barbuda.
There are around 25 public health centers spread over 6 medical districts. In Antigua you will also find a public hospital and in Barbuda an 8-bed medical facility.
There is a decompression chamber in Antigua and Barbuda, but it is not always operational. Medical evacuation to Saba or Guadeloupe may be necessary.
Pharmacies are easy to find. Most pharmacies are open 9-5, Monday-Saturday. Pharmacies alternate opening hours on holidays and evenings.
It is recommended that you bring your own medications if you are dependent on them. Bring them in their original container with an official letter from your doctor.
In the event of an emergency, call 911. Emergency medical care is available to everyone and free of charge, including tourists.

The government finances public healthcare through the Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS). Healthcare is good, free or low-cost, but waiting times can be long.
The healthcare system consists of three levels: primary healthcare in health clinics, consultations with specialists and hospital treatment.
Working people and their families, pensioners, students and legal residents can receive care through the public system.
The public healthcare system includes GP visits, hospitalisation, emergency care, maternity care, vaccinations, preventive care, basic dental care and prescription drugs (with a co-payment).
To use it, you must have a residence permit, register with the MBS and choose a health center.

In private healthcare, as in many other countries, you can expect faster care, you have a wider choice of specialists and more comfort.
Many locals and foreigners living in Antigua and Barbuda choose private healthcare as a supplement to public healthcare.

In Antigua and Barbuda, there are many general practitioners who provide primary care at primary health centers. These centers can be found within 3 km of every major settlement.
Most resorts also have their own general practitioner.

Basic dental care is available through the public healthcare system.
More extensive/complex dental care is often provided through the private system and is either paid for in cash or reimbursed by private insurance.

Maternity care in Antigua and Barbuda is good. There is good prenatal care with sufficient check-ups, examinations and ultrasounds. There is also a special intensive care unit for babies.
Most births take place in a hospital or birth clinic.
In Antigua and Barbuda, women are entitled to maternity benefits for up to 13 weeks. The benefit amounts to approximately 60 percent of the average, insurable salary.
To receive this, an application form must be completed by a doctor/midwife, the pregnant person and the employer. There are quite a few rules surrounding this process, check the website of the government of Antigua and Barbuda for more information.
Abortion is illegal and the penalties are high. There are exceptions, for example when the mother's life is in danger.

Antigua and Barbuda are quite safe, especially in the tourist areas. However, it is always good to stay alert, especially for scams.
In the more remote areas, it is not recommended to go out alone after dark.
Jellyfish and sea urchins can occur on the coast, so it is wise to wear water shoes.
Hurricanes and tropical storms can occur, especially from June to November. Make sure you know what to do and check whether your health insurance also covers natural calamities.

There are few serious diseases on the island. There are mosquitoes, but cases of dengue, chikungunya and malaria are almost non-existent.
Zika is a disease that occurs on the island. For this reason, pregnant women in particular should be extra careful.
It is recommended to drink bottled water, because not everyone can tolerate tap water.
Food hygiene is generally good. It is quite hot and the sun is strong. So make sure you drink enough and bring a good load of sunscreen.

The traffic in Antigua and Barbuda is good. Driving on the left may take some getting used to, but the roads are generally in good condition and not too busy.
Taxis are an easy way to get around and can be found everywhere. Make sure to agree on a price in advance!
Public transport is also well organised and safe.

Is the trip to Antigua and Barbuda and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

Insurance is generally not mandatory in Antigua and Barbuda, but is highly recommended. Healthcare costs can be expensive and it is always wise to be covered for medical repatriation and evacuation.
Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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