15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Bermuda

"Bermuda offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, hospital care, and mental health services. The public healthcare system in Bermuda is provided by the Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB), which operates two hospitals and several clinics. The quality of public healthcare in Bermuda is generally good, with a focus on preventive care and patient-centered care. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Bermuda can use the public healthcare system by registering with the BHB and paying a fee. They can also purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," said an expat in Bermuda.

"Bermuda has a well-developed healthcare system, with a range of medical services available to both residents and visitors. The island has a number of private and public hospitals, as well as a variety of specialist clinics and medical centers. Bermuda also has a number of highly trained doctors and nurses, who provide a range of medical services, including general practice, emergency care, and specialist care. Bermuda also has a number of pharmacies, which provide a range of over-the-counter and prescription medications," said an expat in Bermuda.

"Healthcare is expensive. Some companies bear the insurance cost, but majority you have to pay your portion of insurance. There is co-pay in almost all private doctor visits and services are expensive," commented one expat living in Hamilton, Bermuda.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Bermuda can be expensive. The cost of medical care is higher than in many other countries, and health insurance premiums can be costly. The cost of health insurance is based on age, gender, and pre-existing conditions, and can be quite expensive for those with pre-existing conditions. Additionally, there is a lack of public health insurance options, so those who cannot afford private health insurance may struggle to access medical care," said one expat.

"King Edward Memorial Hospital is the only general hospital on the island. It has the usual departments one would expect and most basic problems can be managed on island. Many people however choose or are advised to go overseas for surgery or complex problems. All medical care on island is private, bar a minority of local people with just the basic government health cover. The hospital is on the outskirts of Hamilton city and within 12 miles of any part on the island. A second hospital, Mid Atlantic Wellness Institute looks after mental health problems and learning disabilities. This is in one of the central parishes. Psychiatric care is covered by insurance. Locally problems such as cardiovascular disease, asthma, renal dialysis, orthopaedic surgery, childbirth, paediatrics are all covered in the same fashion as a district general hospital would cover back in UK. You do have an element of choice afforded through your insurance - for example I have one friend who had knee replacement on island and another who went to Boston," said one expat living in Hamilton.

"Emergency services in Bermuda are provided by the Bermuda Fire and Rescue Service (BFRS). The BFRS provides fire, rescue, and emergency medical services to the island. To call for an ambulance, dial 911. The BFRS will dispatch an ambulance to the scene and provide medical assistance. The BFRS also provides a range of other services, such as hazardous materials response, search and rescue, and water rescue," mentioned one expat in Bermuda.

"The capital city of Hamilton is home to a wide variety of medical specialists, including general practitioners, specialists in internal medicine, cardiology, neurology, orthopedics, and more. The city of St. George's is also home to a number of medical specialists, including those specializing in family medicine, pediatrics, and obstetrics and gynecology. Additionally, the city of Southampton is home to a number of medical specialists, including those specializing in dermatology, ophthalmology, and psychiatry," commented one expat living in Bermuda.

"Boston, New York and UK are the common places to go for off island medical care. Quality there is of course excellent," wrote one expat.

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Bermuda. Most pharmacies in Bermuda carry a wide range of medications, including those used to treat common conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and asthma. Many of these medications are available over the counter, while others require a prescription from a doctor. In addition, some medications may require special approval from the Bermuda Department of Health before they can be dispensed," commented one expat who moved to Bermuda.

"Prescription medicines are covered through your insurance. This is one area which is better than UK as there is no co-pay for common prescription items, compared with the standard prescription charge in UK. Some that are OTC in UK are not available without prescription here - for example oral antifungals. Others surprisingly are available OTC such as some sleeping tablets and strong laxatives. Many vitamins are available in pharmacies," said one expat.

"Bermuda has a high quality of medical care and facilities. The island is home to a number of hospitals and clinics, staffed by highly trained and experienced medical professionals. Bermuda also has a number of specialist medical centers, offering a range of treatments and services. The island also has a number of private medical practices, offering a range of services from general practice to specialist care. Bermuda also has a number of pharmacies, providing access to a range of medications and treatments," remarked one expat living in Bermuda.

"Yes, as a foreigner living in Bermuda, you will have access to public healthcare. Bermuda's public healthcare system is known for its high quality of care and is available to all Bermudian residents, including foreigners. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides a range of services, including primary care, hospital care, mental health services, and specialist care. The public healthcare system is also supplemented by a number of private healthcare providers, which offer additional services and treatments," said one expat.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the local healthcare system in Bermuda. The government has implemented a number of measures to protect the health and safety of the population, including the closure of non-essential services, the introduction of travel restrictions, and the implementation of social distancing protocols. The healthcare system has also had to adapt to the changing needs of the population, with the introduction of telemedicine services and the expansion of virtual care. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the healthcare system in Bermuda has been able to provide quality care to those in need," said an expat in Bermuda.