Healthcare & Health Insurance in Trinidad & Tobago
Summary: Digital Nomads in Trinidad & Tobago share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in Trinidad & Tobago, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.
What are healthcare services like in Trinidad & Tobago?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Trinidad & Tobago, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Trinidad & Tobago are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and legal residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Trinidad & Tobago can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, many expats opt to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," explained one digital nomad living in Trinidad & Tobago.
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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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What is the quality of medical care in Trinidad & Tobago like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Trinidad & Tobago, they replied:
"Medical services in Trinidad & Tobago are generally of a high standard. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. The country also has a number of private medical facilities, offering a range of services from general practice to specialist care. The government also provides free or subsidized medical care for those in need. In addition, the country has a number of pharmacies, providing access to a wide range of medications," said one digital nomad in Trinidad & Tobago.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Trinidad & Tobago?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Trinidad & Tobago can be expensive. The cost of medical care is high, and the cost of health insurance can be even higher. The cost of health insurance is often based on the type of coverage and the number of people covered. Additionally, the cost of health insurance can vary depending on the provider," explained one expat living in Trinidad & Tobago.
What are emergency services like in Trinidad & Tobago?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Trinidad & Tobago wrote:
"Emergency services in Trinidad & Tobago are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the public can call the emergency hotline at 999 to request an ambulance. The ambulance service is free of charge and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The ambulance service is staffed by trained medical personnel who are able to provide medical assistance and transport to the nearest hospital," said a member in Trinidad & Tobago.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"The capital city of Port of Spain is home to a wide variety of medical specialists, including general practitioners, surgeons, and specialists in cardiology, neurology, and oncology. San Fernando, the second largest city in Trinidad & Tobago, also has a wide selection of medical specialists, including those specializing in obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and orthopedics. The city of Arima is also home to a number of medical specialists, including those specializing in endocrinology, gastroenterology, and urology. Additionally, the towns of Chaguanas and Point Fortin have a selection of medical specialists, including those specializing in dermatology, ophthalmology, and psychiatry," remarked one member in Trinidad & Tobago.
Are common prescription medications available in Trinidad & Tobago?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Trinidad & Tobago. Most pharmacies carry a wide range of medications, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, and other medications used to treat a variety of conditions. Many of these medications are available over the counter, while others require a prescription from a doctor. In addition, many pharmacies also offer generic versions of brand-name medications, which can be more affordable for those on a budget," wrote one digital nomad living in Trinidad & Tobago.
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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Trinidad & Tobago?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Trinidad & Tobago are generally of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. 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 citizens and permanent residents, and there are a number of private healthcare providers available. In addition, the country has a number of medical research centers and universities, which are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and providing quality healthcare," explained one expat living in Trinidad & Tobago.
As a foreigner living in Trinidad & Tobago, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Trinidad & Tobago have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Trinidad & Tobago is generally considered to be of good quality, with a wide range of services available. The country has a number of public hospitals and clinics, as well as a network of private healthcare providers. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for citizens and permanent residents. However, foreigners may be required to pay for some services," remarked one member in Trinidad & Tobago.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Trinidad & Tobago if they have access to public healthcare in Trinidad & Tobago. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Trinidad & Tobago. The government has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety of healthcare workers and patients, including the introduction of a national contact tracing system, the implementation of social distancing protocols, and the provision of personal protective equipment. Additionally, the government has increased the number of hospital beds and ventilators available to treat COVID-19 patients. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system has been overwhelmed by the number of cases, leading to long wait times for appointments and delays in receiving test results. Furthermore, the government has implemented a number of restrictions on movement and gatherings, which has made it difficult for many people to access healthcare services," said one foreigner in Trinidad & Tobago.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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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Digital Nomads in Trinidad & Tobago offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Trinidad & Tobago.
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