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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Dominican Rep | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in the Dominican Republic

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Oct 11, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in the Dominican Republic is generally considered to be lower than that of the United States. Emergency services are available, but may not be as reliable or as well-equipped as those in the US. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 911 or contact the local fire department.

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How are healthcare services the Dominican Republic?

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

"The Dominican Republic offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, and hospital services. The public healthcare system is managed by the Ministry of Public Health and Social Assistance, and is funded by the government. The quality of public healthcare varies, with some areas having better access to resources and better quality care than others. Foreign residents do have access to the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay out-of-pocket for some services. Expats in the Dominican Republic often use the public healthcare system, but they may also opt for private healthcare services, which are generally of higher quality," wrote an expat living in Dominican Rep.

"You must purchase private insurance here. Public medical care is available but it is not the same, it is seriously inferior," said an expat in Santo Domingo.

What are medical services in the Dominican Republic like?

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

"The Dominican Republic has a wide range of medical services available to its citizens and visitors. The country has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a variety of medical services, including general practice, emergency care, and specialized treatments. The country also has a number of medical schools and universities that offer medical degrees and training. In addition, the Dominican Republic has a number of medical tourism companies that offer medical services to international visitors. The quality of medical care in the Dominican Republic is generally good, and the cost of medical services is generally lower than in other countries," wrote one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in the Dominican Republic?

"Healthcare and health insurance in the Dominican Republic can be expensive, especially for those who do not have access to public health services. Private health insurance plans are available, but they can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the cost of medical care in the Dominican Republic is often higher than in other countries, making it difficult for many people to afford the necessary treatments," remarked one expat living in Dominican Rep.

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What are emergency services like in the Dominican Republic?

When we asked about emergency services, members in the Dominican Republic wrote:

"Emergency services in the Dominican Republic are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, you can call 911 to request an ambulance. The emergency services personnel are trained to respond quickly and provide medical assistance. Additionally, the Dominican Republic has a number of private ambulance services that can be contacted in the event of an emergency," said an expat in Dominican Rep.

"Private hospitals differ one from the other. Most are good and some are excellent. You can get almost all kinds of care in private hospitals and good quality care in private clinics. There are many private facilities in Santo Domingo," commented one expat living in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The Dominican Republic is home to a wide variety of medical specialists, with some of the best selection being found in the capital city of Santo Domingo. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Santiago de los Caballeros, La Romana, and Puerto Plata. Additionally, the Punta Cana area is known for its excellent selection of medical specialists," wrote one expat.

Are common prescription medications available in the Dominican Republic?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in the Dominican Republic. Most pharmacies in the country carry a wide range of medications, including those used to treat common illnesses and conditions. Many of these medications are imported from other countries, such as the United States, and are available in both generic and brand name forms. In addition, some medications may be available in the Dominican Republic that are not available in other countries," remarked one expat living in Dominican Rep.

"Yes and most are available without a prescription with the exception of serious pain killers," said one expat living in Santo Domingo.

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in the Dominican Republic?

"The medical facilities and medical care in the Dominican Republic are generally of a high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. The country also has a number of highly-trained medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and specialists. In addition, the Dominican Republic has a number of modern hospitals and clinics, equipped with the latest medical technology. Overall, the quality of medical care in the Dominican Republic is good, and the country is well-equipped to provide quality medical care to its citizens," mentioned one expat in Dominican Rep.

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

"Yes, foreigners living in the Dominican Republic have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in the Dominican Republic is generally considered to be of good quality, with a wide range of services available. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all citizens and legal residents. However, foreigners may be required to pay a fee for certain services. The public healthcare system is also supplemented by a number of private healthcare providers, which offer more specialized services," said one expat.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in the Dominican Republic. Access to healthcare has been limited due to the closure of many health centers and hospitals, and the lack of resources to treat patients. Many people have had difficulty accessing medical care, and the long wait times for appointments have been a major issue. Additionally, the cost of medical care has increased significantly, making it difficult for many people to afford the necessary treatments. The government has implemented various measures to help alleviate the burden on the healthcare system, such as providing free testing and expanding access to telemedicine. Despite these efforts, the pandemic has had a major impact on the healthcare system in the Dominican Republic," wrote one expat.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in the Dominican Republic?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in the Dominican Republic about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"It is important to research the healthcare system in the Dominican Republic before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in the Dominican Republic. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in the Dominican Republic. It is also a good idea to have a support system in place, such as family or friends, to help with the process. Finally, make sure to have all the necessary supplies and documents ready before the baby arrives," remarked one in Dominican Rep.

Are healthcare services good in the Dominican Republic?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in the Dominican Republic. They wrote:

"The Dominican Republic has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. Private healthcare is also available, and many people opt for this option due to the higher quality of care. The country has a number of hospitals and clinics that offer a range of services, including primary care, emergency care, and specialized care. The government also provides free vaccinations and preventive care to its citizens. In addition, there are a number of private health insurance companies that offer coverage for medical expenses," remarked one expat in Dominican Rep.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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