Bermuda Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in Bermuda

Expats moving to Bermuda should secure international health insurance to help cover medical costs and ensure high-quality care within the island. Bermuda’s public healthcare is expensive and limited, while private healthcare offers better treatment, flexibility, and worldwide medical care. 

Are you an expat looking for the best healthcare before moving to Bermuda? Are you a traveler planning a tropical getaway who wants to ensure that possible trip mishaps are covered?

This article will outline the benefits of international insurance in Bermuda, explain the country’s healthcare system, compare top insurance plans, give travel safety advice for the area, and more. 

Whether you’re preparing for a long-term move or planning a quick vacation, Pacific Prime has the expertise to find the ideal plan for your needs and budget. Get a free quote or keep reading to find out more about health insurance in Bermuda.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Bermuda

The Healthcare System in Bermuda

Bermuda offers high-quality medical care, but its minimal public healthcare is considered very expensive. Health insurance is mandatory in the country, so private insurance and the private sector dominate the healthcare landscape. 

The Ministry of Health oversees the healthcare system in Bermuda and is actively working with the Health Insurance Department toward providing universal healthcare to islanders. 

Bermuda is known for having modern medical facilities and for offering quality medical treatment, but that treatment is highly expensive. Serious and complex medical treatments also often require medical evacuation to the United States, which makes international health insurance a desirable choice.

Public Hospitals in Bermuda

Hospitals in the island territory are generally overseen by the public Bermuda Hospitals Board. Bermuda’s main public hospital is King Edward VII Memorial Hospital (KEMH). The Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute (MWI) provides all psychiatric care in Bermuda, and the Lamb Foggo Urgent Care Center.

King Edward Memorial Hospital: Bermuda’s public hospital boasts 360 beds and a variety of specialty services for those seeking emergency care. Patients can receive acute and inpatient care, diagnostic services, and outpatient services.

Address: 7 Point Finger Rd, DV 04, Bermuda
Phone number: +1 441-236-2345

The Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute: Care providers at MWI offer an intellectual disability program, a Turning Point substance abuse program, and services for acute mental health needs, children and adolescents, and elderly individuals. 

MWI offers a walk-in clinic to individuals needing immediate help from mental health specialists and aims to support the community suffering from ongoing mental illness as they settle into new communities.

Address: FL 01, 44 Devon Spring Rd, Bermuda
Phone number: +1 441-236-3770

Lamb Foggo Urgent Care Center: Patients seeking treatment for minor illnesses and injuries can receive services at Lamb Foggo. The center best serves individuals on the east end of Bermuda, but also serves as a disaster hub.

Address: 1 Hall Street, St.George's DD 03, Bermuda
Phone number: +1 441-298-7700

Private Hospitals in Bermuda

Some of the top private facilities in Bermuda include Bermuda Healthcare Services, Bermuda Medical Specialties Group, The Centre for Sport and Orthopaedic Medicine, and Somers Medical Services Ltd.

Bermuda Healthcare Services: This private group offers family practice services as well as ultrasounds, echocardiology services, MRIs, CT scans, X-rays, and executive physicals.

Address: 19 The Lane Paget Parish PG, 05, Bermuda
Phone number: (441) 236 2810

Bermuda Medical Specialties Group: BMSG offers a variety of services for comprehensive care, from specialist care such as cardiology and neurology to internal medicine care. They also provide non-imaging diagnostics, infusion therapy, health education, executive physicals, and more. 

Address: 3 Reid Street, Hamilton, Bermuda
Phone number: +1 441-292-0022

The Centre for Sport and Orthopaedic Medicine: The CSOM opened its doors in 2016, leading the way in nonsurgical treatments for musculoskeletal issues and exercise-related injuries. Since then, the practice has also established care for women’s health and regenerative medicine.

Address: 58 Par-La-Ville Rd, Hamilton, Bermuda
Phone number: +1 441-292-6901

Somers Medical Services Ltd: Somers Medical Services Ltd provides both primary care and aesthetic services. Primary care provided includes family medicine, chronic disease monitoring, asthma management, minor surgery, and more. Aesthetic services include laser therapies for improved skin.

Address: Weldon House, 9 Victoria St, Hamilton 11, Bermuda
Phone number: +1 441-295-1110

Health Insurance Options in Bermuda for Expats

Expats should purchase expat insurance before heading to Bermuda. The country requires employers to offer health insurance under the Health Care Act, but expats may not qualify. International health insurance guarantees expats care worldwide, even if they are medically evacuated to another country.

Public Insurance in Bermuda

The Health Insurance Department offers two public insurance plans: Health Insurance Plan (HIP) and FutureCare. Bermuda employers are legally obligated to offer health insurance to their employees (and their non-employed spouses) who work 15 hours or more per week for at least two months a year.

The HIP is meant for individuals 18 years or older, with the HIP Youth plan covering individuals younger than 18. The FutureCare plan was designed for individuals who are 65 or older. The Government Employee Health Insurance (GEHI) covers all government pensioners, employees, and their dependents.

Both the Health Insurance Plan and the FutureCare plans offer 100% coverage for stays at Bermuda Hospitals Board facilities, including emergency room visits, diagnostic imaging, labs performed at KEMH, and more. Find the details of coverage for both plans here.

Expats hoping to qualify for FutureCare public health insurance must apply for and receive a Certificate of Entitlement (COE). Qualifying for HIP as an expat is difficult unless they receive coverage through an employer. Instead, expats should purchase private health insurance.

Private Insurance in Bermuda

Expats will likely not qualify for public insurance in Bermuda, so they should purchase private health insurance. High-quality worldwide care, customization, and medical evacuation coverage (which is frequent in Bermuda) make international health insurance an appealing choice for expats.

Some of the benefits often included with international health insurance include:

• Worldwide coverage
• Inpatient and day patient care
• Cancer care
• Mental health care
• Emergency ambulatory services and ER care
• Palliative care
• Home nursing
• Lab work and testing
• Prescription medications
• Emergency dental care
• Rehabilitation

International health insurance offers portable care across borders, so expats can access top-tier facilities worldwide. Portability is important for expats in Bermuda since medical evacuation is otherwise very expensive, and many patients needing serious treatment receive care in the United States.

Individuals who choose an international insurance plan also have the luxury of picking which benefits they need, with options to renew their policies. Expats may also consider add-on benefits for vision, dental, maternity, and preventive care. 

We recommend speaking to our expert insurance advisors today to find a personalized plan before you begin your adventure in Bermuda.

Best Private Insurance Providers for Expats in Bermuda

Some of the best private health insurance providers for expats in Bermuda include Allianz, AXA, Bupa, Cigna, NOW Health, and VUMI. Read more about each provider below, head to the link for their page, or get a free quote right away.

Allianz

Allianz is one of the largest international health insurance providers worldwide. Their Allianz Care, Allianz Care Plus, and Allianz Care Pro offer ideal coverage for Bermuda expats. All three plans cover inpatient and day-care services, oncology treatment, and medical evacuation.

The annual limit per plan is:

• Care plan: USD $2,500,000
• Care Plus plan: USD $4,000,000
• Care Pro plan: USD $5,00,000

Expats seeking the most comprehensive care should consider the Care Pro plan, with more budget-friendly options found in the Care Plus or Care plans. 

Beyond the core benefits offered in each plan, expats may purchase add-on riders for further coverage, with offerings for an outpatient plan, a dental plan, a repatriation plan, and a maternity plan.

AXA

AXA offers five international plans: their Foundation, Standard, Comprehensive, Prestige, and Prestige Plus plans. These plans include valuable services for expats such as 24/7 personal support, claims repayment within 48 hours, second medical opinions, and virtual doctor visits. 

The plans all offer coverage for:

For those needing extra coverage, the Prestige and Prestige Plus plans also cover routine pregnancy care and annual health checks.

The annual limit of each plan is:

• Foundation plan: USD $160,000
• Standard plan: USD $1,600,000
• Comprehensive plan: USD $2,400,000
• Prestige plan: USD $3,200,000
• Prestige Plus plan: USD $8,00,000

Bupa

Bupa Global offers its Major Medical plan, Select plan, Premier plan, and Elite plan to expats in Bermuda for flexible international health insurance coverage. Bupa’s plans even cover two children under the age of ten at no extra cost, subject to underwriting. 

Annual limits are:

• About USD $3,174,200 for the Major Medical plan
• About USD  $1,587,100 for the Select plan
• About USD $2,380,600 for the Premier plan
• About USD $4,761,300 for the Elite plan

Their plans and coverage details may vary by region, so it’s wise to contact your insurance broker for more information.

Cigna

Cigna is known worldwide as a leading health insurance provider. They provide excellent coverage inpatient and outpatient services for expats through their Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans as well as their Close Care plan. The core benefits included in these plans are:

Expats have the option to customize their plan for their health and lifestyle needs, with some popular add-on benefits including: 

• Dental and vision benefits
• Evacuation and Crisis Assistance Plus™
• Outpatient services
• Health and wellbeing services

The Silver, Gold, and Platinum plan all offer international coverage, while the Close Care plan only offers coverage in Bermuda and the expat’s home country as a cost-effective option. 

The annual limits for each plan are: 

• USD $1,000,000 for the Silver plan
• USD $2,000,000 for the Gold plan
• An unlimited annual maximum for the Platinum plan 
• USD $500,000 for the Close Care plan 

NOW Health

NOW Health offers its WorldCare and SimpleCare plans with different tiers of coverage across both plans. Through their WorldCare plan, expats can choose from four tiers of coverage, and through the SimpleCare plan, expats can choose from three tiers of coverage. 

The SimpleCare plan helps expats save on premium costs. Note that expats cannot receive elective coverage in the United States under the SimpleCare plan. Under the SimpleCare plan, annual limits are:

• USD $1,000,000 for the SimpleCare Core tier
• USD $1,500,000 for the SimpleCare 100 tier
• USD $1,500,000 for the SimpleCare 250 tier

The WorldCare plans from NOW Health offer more comprehensive care, and the copay options help expats lower their monthly premiums. Under the WorldCare plan, annual limits are:

• USD $3,000,000 for the Essential tier
• USD $3,500,000 for the Advance tier
• USD $4,000,000 for the Excel tier
• USD $4,500,000 for the Apex tier

VUMI

VUMI’s five international health insurance plans are their Basic, Standard, Superior, Ultra, and Total plans. VUMI offers access to an extensive network of healthcare providers, coverage for prescribed medications, and even support for chronic conditions.

The shared benefits across these plans include:

• Comprehensive inpatient care
• Comprehensive outpatient care
• Zero-deductible options for emergency transportation.

Annual coverage across each plan is:

• USD $3,000,000 for the Basic plan
• USD $3,500,000 for the Standard plan
• USD $4,00,000 for the Superior plan
• USD $4,500,000 for the Ultra plan
• USD $5,000,000 for the Total plan

Facts to Consider When Picking Insurance in Bermuda

Individuals choosing a private insurance plan should consider not just the insurer's reputation but also the size of the provider network, direct billing options, and specifics of their health and budget. We’ve listed the main factors to keep in mind below:

1. Your Budget: Your health history, desired coverage, extra benefits, and even age and gender contribute to the cost of your insurance plan. When breaking down your budget for your policy, remember the following costs:
   • Premiums are the amount you pay each month for health insurance. 
   • Deductibles are the amount you pay before your insurance covers costs. 
   • Copays are the amount you pay for medical visits, like doctor’s visits. 
   • Coinsurance is the coverage percentage you pay once you have met your deductible. 
   • The out-of-pocket maximum is the total maximum amount you may pay for health care within a term.
2. Plan Limits: Each plan offers varied coverage limits, meaning the maximum amount the insurer will pay for medical expenses. International health insurance limits are usually annual. Ensure that plan limits align with your healthcare needs, especially if you often receive extensive care.
3. Range of Benefits: Expats should evaluate which plans provide comprehensive coverage that includes inpatient, outpatient, and preventive care. When applicable, seek plans with coverage for maternity care, mental health services, and prescription medications.
4. Exclusions: Many plans have exclusions, so carefully review your policy or seek professional help from a broker. Many plans do not cover pre-existing conditions, elective surgery, or alternative therapies. If you receive treatment for excluded care, you will have to cover the costs out of pocket.
5. Insurer Reputation: Pacific Prime partners with fantastic insurance providers, so you can trust the reputation of all partners on our site. If you choose to look elsewhere, check ratings and reviews online from current policyholders. 
6. Direct Billing Options: Some providers provide direct billing, which allows expats to receive treatment upfront before payment, alleviating financial stress and streamlining the medical process. 
7. Adventure Support: Many individuals in Bermuda enjoy outdoor excursions, so verify that your chosen policy covers your favorite activities, from hiking to rock climbing to surfing. Ensure the insurer also provides 24/7 emergency assistance for urgent medical emergencies.
8. Medical Evacuation: Confirm that the plan includes medical evacuation coverage. This is essential for expats and travelers in Bermuda. Medical evacuation addresses the costs of transporting you to another location or country for necessary medical care.

Health and Safety Tips for Travelers in Bermuda

Bermuda is generally considered a safe place to travel. The island territory enjoys a low petty crime rate, but travelers should still follow general precautions, beware of strong rip currents, and stay safe from hurricanes. Find top travel advice for Bermuda below.

Stay Vaccinated

Along with routine vaccinations such as chickenpox, polio, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, and measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), travelers to Bermuda are also advised to get vaccinated against typhoid and hepatitis before their tropical adventure. 

Purchase Travel Insurance

Those planning short-term vacations to Bermuda should consider travel insurance. Travel medical insurance provides coverage for some medical emergencies during your vacation, such as emergency care or repatriation. Make sure any insurance you purchase covers emergency evacuation.

Pair travel medical insurance with traditional travel insurance to receive comprehensive coverage against most travel mishaps. Travel insurance usually covers:

• Trip cancellation
• Delayed departure
• Personal belongings
• Lost luggage
• Travel documents
• Personal liability

If travel insurance fits your needs, read more about top insurers in this guide. 

Understand Rip Currents

Rip currents are strong, narrow currents that move away from the shore near beaches where waves break. Always swim at beaches with lifeguards and read beach forecasts. If you get stuck in a rip current, float along with the current until it subsides or swim parallel to the shoreline. 

Prepare for Hurricane Season

Hurricane season runs from about June 1st to November 30th in Bermuda. Consider visiting in March or April to avoid hurricanes, or ensure that you check local weather forecasts. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is healthcare free in Bermuda?

Bermuda does not offer free healthcare. Public healthcare in Bermuda can also be costly.

Is Bermuda a good destination for tourists?

Bermuda is a favorite tourist destination for its pink sands, beautiful tropical landscape, and luxury amenities. The islands provide a rich cultural experience with locations like St. George’s, and visitors can even watch humpback whales as they pass in the spring.

Is Bermuda a good place for expats to live?

Bermuda is an ideal location for expats looking for a laid-back tropical lifestyle. Expats should remember that Bermuda has a high cost of living and a limited job market, however, so it isn’t ideal for expats who are not financially stable.

Do you need private health insurance in Bermuda?

Private insurance is highly recommended for expats and travelers in Bermuda, as healthcare is extremely expensive, especially if you require medical evacuation for specialized treatment.

Compare Plans and Quotes Now

Private health insurance is highly recommended for any expat who wants access to high-quality, reasonably priced treatment in Bermuda. Along with providing access to care within Bermuda, international health insurance ensures policyholders can receive treatment regardless of where they are in the world. 

Pacific Prime has over 20 years of experience helping expats and travelers find amazing insurance plans. By contacting a broker from Pacific Prime, you guarantee that you get the information to find the right plan for you. 

Pacific Prime offers a wide array of travel insurance policies and health insurance plans as well as benefit packages for inpatient, outpatient, maternity, and dental care. Contact our expert advisors to get a free, no-obligation quote or impartial advice, and experience the peace of mind our plans can offer.