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

How does the healthcare system work in Curaçao?

Healthcare in the Netherlands Antilles is generally good. Most medical treatments can be performed.
In urgent situations, patients are transferred from Aruba and Bonaire to hospitals in Curaçao.
However, not all specialist procedures are possible on the island. In the case of specialist procedures or serious or complicated cases, the air ambulance service is used to travel to the United States or Latin America, for example.

There are several hospitals in Curaçao, including the Curaçao Medical Center (formerly the Sint Elisabeth Hospital), the Taams Clinic and the Antillean Adventist Hospital.
Curaçao has a national healthcare system, the so-called Basic Health Insurance (BVZ), which offers mandatory healthcare coverage for residents and persons with a residence permit. This is arranged by the Social Insurance Bank (SVB).
The BVZ covers basic healthcare, including visits to the general practitioner, hospital admissions, medicines and some specialist treatments. Dental care and optical care are included to a limited extent.
The premium is automatically deducted from the wages of working residents. For expats who do not work, access to BVZ depends on their residence status.
Waiting times in the public system can sometimes be long, especially for specialist care.

Private care in Curaçao is of high quality, with modern facilities and English-speaking doctors. Many expats choose private clinics because of the shorter waiting times and personal attention.
Private care is more expensive than public care, but still considerably cheaper than in many Western countries.
Curaçao Medical Center (CMC) is the largest and most modern hospital on the island. Private clinics such as Vidanova and Medwork also offer quick access to specialists.

It is useful to know that for almost all care, you need a referral from your general practitioner or from a specialist. In the public system, you have to register with a specific GP, while in the private system you are free to choose.
With private GPs, you pay a considerable amount per consultation. So make sure you are well insured!

In Curaçao, you have plenty of choice between different dentist(s) and practices, with different specializations and treatment options.
Basic dental care is covered by the BVZ, but advanced treatments are not.
Private dentists offer advanced treatments at reasonable prices. Expats with private insurance often choose private dentists because of the flexibility and quality.

Pregnancy care in Curaçao is generally well arranged. Both public and private care options are available.
Prenatal care, ultrasounds, and deliveries are covered by the BVZ. Deliveries usually take place in the Curaçao Medical Center (CMC).
Many expats choose private care because of the personal attention. Costs for a private birth start at around $2,500.
Breastfeeding is encouraged and socially acceptable, including in public places.

Petty crime, such as theft, does occur. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in tourist areas and on beaches. Also be aware of the risks of (car) burglary.
Walking in dark, remote areas is not recommended, as street lighting is sometimes lacking.
Curacao is known for its clear water and beautiful snorkeling spots, but be alert for sea urchins and fire coral, which can cause painful injuries.
Watch out for Portuguese man-of-war (a type of jellyfish with painful stings). They are sometimes spotted while snorkeling or swimming.
Hiking trails and nature reserves are beautiful, but come prepared. Bring enough water and ask locals about the safety of specific areas.
Curacao is outside the hurricane belt, but heavy rainfall can cause flooding during the rainy season (October-December).

Mosquitoes are a problem, especially during the rainy season. Protect yourself from mosquito bites.
The tap water in Curacao is safe to drink and of excellent quality, thanks to desalination plants.
Due to the intense sun, sunscreen is essential to prevent sunburn and skin problems. Also, make sure you don't get dehydrated, drink enough!

The main roads are well maintained, but many side roads have potholes or are poorly lit.
A car is quite essential on the island. Traffic rules are sometimes not strictly followed, so be alert.
Parking in Willemstad can be difficult. Paid parking is available, and pay attention to where parking is prohibited (recognizable by yellow lines).
Minibuses and taxis are available, but the system is less reliable. Many expats opt for a rental or own car.

Is the trip to 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.

Health insurance is mandatory in Curaçao for long-term stays. Emigrants with a residence permit can register with the SVB. Expats without a residence permit do not have access to the public system and must take out private or international health insurance (not all of which are accepted). If you have your own private insurance that covers as much as the BVZ, you can also be exempted from the BVZ. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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