×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Healthcare Guide for Digital Nomads and Remote Workers in Kiribati | Digital Nomad Exchange
Digital Nomad Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Healthcare & Health Insurance in Kiribati

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Digital Nomads in Kiribati share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in Kiribati, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.

SJB Global
SJB Global
SJB Global
SJB Global

What are healthcare services like in Kiribati?

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

"Kiribati has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Kiribati is generally considered to be adequate, although there are some shortages of medical supplies and personnel. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Kiribati generally use the public healthcare system, although they may also opt to use private healthcare services if they are available," said one digital nomad in Kiribati.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

What is the quality of medical care in Kiribati like?

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

"Kiribati has a limited number of medical services available. The main hospital is located in the capital city of South Tarawa, and there are a few smaller health centers located on other islands. The medical services available include basic primary care, emergency care, and some specialized services such as obstetrics and gynecology. However, due to limited resources, the quality of care is not always up to the standards of other countries. Additionally, there is a shortage of medical personnel, and many of the medical staff are not adequately trained. As a result, access to medical care can be difficult for many people in Kiribati," explained one digital nomad living in Kiribati.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kiribati?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Kiribati can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government's health insurance scheme. The cost of medical care and health insurance can be prohibitive for many people, and the quality of care can be variable. Additionally, access to medical care can be limited in some areas, making it difficult for people to receive the care they need," commented a person living in Kiribati.

What are emergency services like in Kiribati?

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

"Emergency services in Kiribati are limited due to the country's small population and remote location. Ambulance services are provided by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, and can be called by dialing 911. However, due to the limited resources available, response times may be longer than in other countries. Additionally, medical care is limited and may not be up to the same standards as in other countries," said one member in Kiribati.

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The capital city of Tarawa is home to the largest selection of medical specialists in Kiribati. The city of Betio, located on the island of South Tarawa, also has a good selection of medical specialists. Other areas in Kiribati with a good selection of medical specialists include the islands of Abaiang, Maiana, and Nonouti," explained one expat living in Kiribati.

Are common prescription medications available in Kiribati?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Kiribati. Most medications are imported from overseas, and are available at pharmacies and hospitals. However, some medications may not be available due to limited supply or lack of availability. Additionally, some medications may require a doctor's prescription before they can be purchased," commented a person living in Kiribati.

William RussellWilliam Russell
Get Quote

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

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

"Medical facilities and medical care in Kiribati are limited. The country has only one hospital, the Tungaru Central Hospital, which is located in the capital city of Tarawa. The hospital provides basic medical services, but lacks the resources and personnel to provide more specialized care. There are also a few health centers located throughout the country, but they are often understaffed and lack the necessary equipment and supplies. In addition, access to medical care is limited due to the country's remote location and lack of transportation," said one digital nomad in Kiribati.

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

"Yes, foreigners living in Kiribati have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Kiribati is relatively basic, with limited resources and facilities. However, the government is working to improve the quality of healthcare services, and there are a few private clinics and hospitals that offer more comprehensive services. The quality of care varies depending on the location and the availability of resources," explained one expat living in Kiribati.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Kiribati. The government has implemented a number of measures to protect the population from the virus, including travel restrictions, social distancing, and the closure of schools and non-essential businesses. Despite these measures, the healthcare system has been strained due to the lack of resources and personnel. The government has been working to increase the number of healthcare workers and to provide additional medical supplies, but the demand for healthcare services has still been high. Additionally, the pandemic has caused a disruption in the delivery of essential services, such as vaccinations and antenatal care. Despite these challenges, the healthcare system in Kiribati has been able to provide essential services to the population and has been able to respond to the pandemic in a timely manner," explained one digital nomad living in Kiribati.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Kiribati GuideKiribati Guide
Learn what digital nomads and expats have to say about living in Kiribati.

Kiribati Forum Kiribati Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Kiribati on our Kiribati forum - meet people, get advice and help others.

Contribute to Kiribati Network Contribute
Help others in Kiribati by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Kiribati.

Expat Healthcare Advice in KiribatiHealthcare & Health Insurance in Kiribati

Digital Nomads in Kiribati offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Kiribati.

Guide to Real Estate in KiribatiGuide to Rentals & Real Estate in Kiribati

Advice for people renting and buying real estate in Kiribati.

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Contribute to Kiribati Network Contribute
Help others in Kiribati by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Kiribati.

SJB Global
SJB Global

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides