The Bahamas Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in The Bahamas

The Bahamas are a natural and historical wonder located off of the coasts of Cuba and Florida, USA. The country boasts 700 islands and cays that range from resort-packed to uninhabited.

In this Pacific Prime guide, we will break down The Bahamas healthcare system, from public healthcare to international health insurance options for expats who are already in The Bahamas or those who are looking to relocate there.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in The Bahamas

The Healthcare System in The Bahamas

The healthcare system in The Bahamas consists of a well-established public sector complemented by a developed private sector. The Bahamas also has a National Health Insurance (NHI) program which provides affordable healthcare services to Bahamian citizens and legal residents.

The standard of healthcare in The Bahamas has always been considered to be high, and the country continues to maintain this view by channeling investment in the local health sector as well as into the training and employment of medical staff.

The health system has a broad range of tertiary services and clinical programs that provide general and specialist medical care to Bahamian residents.

Public Hospitals in The Bahamas

The public system is managed by the Public Hospitals Authority in The Bahamas, which is recognized as one of the best healthcare systems in the Caribbean. Some of the best public hospitals in The Bahamas include:

• The Princess Margaret Hospital
• Grand Bahama Health Service
• Sandilands Rehabilitation Center

Private Hospitals in The Bahamas

Private hospital medical staff in The Bahamas are highly regarded and all speak English. You can expect physicians, nurses, therapists, technologists, and other medical professionals to be on hand in the Bahamian system, all dedicated to providing the best possible care for all clients they serve.

Some of the private hospitals in the area include:

• Lyford Cay Hospital
• The Medical Pavilion

Health Insurance Options in The Bahamas for Expats

While the National Health Insurance Authority oversees the government-funded NHI Bahamas, expats and travelers should consider purchasing international health insurance or their own Bahamas health insurance to help meet the sometimes high costs of the Bahamian healthcare system.

Travel insurance is something that travelers to The Bahamas should consider as they provide both travel and health benefits, however the medical coverage of such plans is generally a lot less comprehensive than other solutions and is for emergency care only.

Cost of health insurance in The Bahamas

The cost of insurance plans in The Bahamas comes in a wide range that depends on your need and level of desired cover. Basic inpatient-only plans can cost as little as USD $54 per month.

Comprehensive Bahamas health insurance plan with high limits and benefits can be as high as USD $1,092 monthly. Additional cover for outpatient, maternity, and dental is available, and will vary in cost depending on the plan.

Public Insurance in The Bahamas

The Bahamas public insurance is the National Health Insurance program (NHI) managed by the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) which was established under the National Health Insurance Act.

The primary goal of the NHI is to ensure that all residents of The Bahamas have access to essential healthcare services without facing financial hardship. The program is designed to provide coverage for healthcare services including:

• Primary care
• Specialist consultations
• Hospital care
• Prescription medications
• Certain diagnostic tests & procedures

Private Insurance in The Bahamas

There are multiple options when it comes to private health insurance for expats in The Bahamas. In addition to local insurance providers, expats can also choose international health insurance plans from global providers.

Typically expats are recommended international health insurance plans due to their comprehensive coverage and international area of coverage.

Best Private Insurance Providers for Expats in The Bahamas

The best private insurance providers for expats in The Bahamas include Allianz, AXA, Cigna, and Vumi. These insurers are known for offering expats comprehensive international health insurance plans with customizable limits and coverage.

Allianz Care

Allianz Care offers expats and travelers to The Bahamas international health insurance plans and travel insurance plans that provide comprehensive coverage during their stay. Their international health insurance plans cover inpatient and outpatient treatments, dental care, and medical evacuations.

AXA International

AXA International has been a global leader in insurance and asset management since 1816. Their international health insurance plans offer expats comprehensive health coverage ensuring expats in The Bahamas have their necessary medical care wherever they go.

Cigna Global

Cigna Global is a prominent health insurance company known for their global presence and their extensive range of health insurance products and services. Expats in The Bahamas can access their trusted network of hospitals and doctors when choosing a plan from Cigna.

VUMI

VUMI (VIP Universal Medical Insurance Group) offers a variety of health insurance plans crafted to meet the needs of expatriates living in The Bahamas. Known for offering expats comprehensive international health insurance plans with great flexibility, expats in The Bahamas will find VUMI’s plans highly customizable to their needs.

Facts to Consider when Picking Insurance in The Bahamas

When picking an insurance plan in The Bahamas, there are a few things you should consider, the first thing you need to do is consider your needs and requirements. Once you have determined what you need covered, you will be able to look for a plan that suits your needs and requirements the most.

Important factors to consider when picking health insurance in The Bahamas include:

Premiums and Payment Options

Premiums are an important factor you need to consider when picking the right insurance plan in The Bahamas. Choosing a plan with flexible payment options such as deductibles and copayments will allow you to adjust your plan to have the most coverage whilst still staying within budget.

Plan Customizations

Customizability is another key factor to consider when picking insurance in The Bahamas. The ability to add or drop benefits from a plan will allow you to customize your benefits and create a plan that covers you the way you need it to.

Exclusions

The benefits and coverage of a plan are important, however, it is also equally important that you look at a plan’s exclusions when picking an insurance plan that’s right for you in The Bahamas. Those with chronic conditions and pre-existing conditions should pay particular attention to this factor.

Health and Safety Tips for Travelers in The Bahamas

The Bahamas is a paradise travel destination that is generally considered safe for travelers. Travelers should still keep in mind general safety tips including precautions against petty thefts to memorizing emergency numbers in case of accidents.

The emergency number you should memorize when visiting The Bahamas is 919. This number can connect you to police services, ambulance services, and the fire station. Alternatively, you can also reach police services with 911.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What are the cons to living in The Bahamas?

If you are considering relocating to The Bahamas, it is important to remember that the cost of living is relatively high due to the high value-added taxes on most goods.

What languages are spoken in The Bahamas?

The official language of The Bahamas is English, but many locals also speak an English-based Creole language.

Is it difficult to find a job in The Bahamas as an expat?

Finding a job in The Bahamas as an expat can be extremely difficult due to government regulations that aim to protect its citizens through decreasing the unemployment rate by encouraging corporations to hire locally.

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Living or visiting The Bahamas can be a great experience, the combination of stunning beaches and cultural richness makes it worth the travels. However, it is important to keep in mind that the cost of living and medical costs can be quite high, making insurance vital for expats and travelers.

For expats, we highly recommend securing a comprehensive international health insurance plan to mitigate the high medical costs in the country. Travelers are encouraged to secure travel insurance to ensure that they have access to quality medical treatments in the case of emergencies.

This is where Pacific Prime can help you. Contact our expert advisors to discuss your healthcare needs. Using a broker like Pacific Prime can ensure that you not only get the right coverage at the best price, but that you have the ongoing support of our team for the duration of your policy.