Saint Kitts and Nevis Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance in Saint Kitts and Nevis for Expats

When moving to Saint Kitts and Nevis, expats should consider an international health insurance plan to ensure comprehensive coverage due to the limited medical facilities outside of Basseterre, the capital city.

In this guide, we will break down the Saint Kitts and Nevis healthcare system, from public healthcare to private health insurance options for expats who are already in the Federation or those who are looking to relocate to either of these beautiful Caribbean islands.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Saint Kitts and Nevis

The Healthcare System in Saint Kitts and Nevis 

The Ministry of Health in Saint Kitts and Nevis is responsible for the organization and management of health services and the generation of medical policies. The Ministry is divided into two departments, medical/clinical and administrative.

There are two separate Ministries of Health with similar organizational structures operating on each island.

The Ministry of Health in Saint Kitts collaborates with the Ministry of Health in Nevis in terms of policy development, regulatory frameworks, and healthcare financing.

The Saint Kitts and Nevis government provides public healthcare services through a national health insurance scheme for its citizens. The main medical facilities include the Joseph N. France General Hospital in Basseterre, Saint Kitts, and the Alexandra Hospital in Charlestown, Nevis.

Both facilities offer basic medical services, including emergency care, maternity services, and general medical treatment. There are also several health centers distributed across both islands providing primary healthcare services to local communities.

Employed persons in the country, including resident expats, are required to contribute to the national Social Security Fund, which only covers sickness and retirement benefits.

Primary healthcare services in the country can be accessed at eleven health centers in Saint Kitts and six in Nevis. Services offered, free of charge at the point of delivery for local citizens, including maternal and child health, chronic disease management, and general medical care services. 

Saint Kitts and Nevis Public Hospitals

• There are only four hospitals in total in Saint Kitts and Nevis. There are two main referral hospitals, Joseph N. France General Hospital on the island of Saint Kitts, and Alexandra Hospital on Nevis. There are two other district hospitals in St. Kitts: Mary Charles, and Pogson.

Saint Kitts and Nevis Private Hospitals

There are currently no private hospitals in operation on either island, but there are a number of private clinics in the country that provide an alternative to the public healthcare system.

Health Insurance Options for Expats in Saint Kitts and Nevis

For travelers and expats in Saint Kitts, comprehensive travel insurance or private health insurance can help offset medical costs. It is particularly important to secure a plan that covers medical evacuations, given that serious medical conditions often require evacuations to neighboring countries.

Public Insurance in Saint Kitts and Nevis

Public healthcare in Saint Kitts and Nevis is provided through the Ministry of Health and operates under a universal healthcare system. The government offers basic healthcare services through a network of public health facilities, including hospitals and community health centers.

While there isn't a specific national health insurance scheme like in some countries, citizens and legal residents can access public healthcare services at minimal costs through government subsidies.

Private Insurance in Saint Kitts and Nevis

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

International health insurance plans are strongly recommended for expats due to their comprehensive coverage and international area of coverage, which is particularly important given Saint Kitts and Nevis' limited medical facilities and the frequent need for medical evacuation.

Best Private Insurance Providers for Expats in Saint Kitts and Nevis

The best private insurance providers for expats in Saint Kitts and Nevis include Allianz Care, Cigna Global, AXA International, and VUMI. These providers offer expats some of the most comprehensive coverage and flexible insurance options.

Allianz Care

For expats in Saint Kitts and Nevis, Allianz Care offers international health insurance plans that provide comprehensive coverage during their stay. Their plans cover inpatient and outpatient treatments, dental care, and medical evacuations.

Cigna Global

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

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 Saint Kitts and Nevis have their necessary medical care wherever they go.

VUMI

VUMI (VIP Universal Medical Insurance Group) offers a variety of health insurance plans crafted for expats in Saint Kitts and Nevis. Known for offering expats comprehensive international health insurance plans with great flexibility, expats can customize their VUMI plan to suit their unique needs.

Health and Safety Tips for Travelers in Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Kitts and Nevis is considered a safe country for travelers to visit. Beyond common safety and travel tips such as keeping a close eye on personal belongings and avoiding wandering off the main road at night, consider the following safety tips for your trip:

Stay Hydrated

Due to the hot and humid Caribbean climate, it is important that travelers stay hydrated, especially when spending time outdoors. Sun protection is also vital as the sun in Saint Kitts and Nevis can be strong. 

Protect Yourself from Illness

The tropical climate of Saint Kitts and Nevis means mosquito-borne illnesses, such as dengue fever and Zika virus, are cause for concern. Be sure to use insect repellent. It is recommended to also use bed screens to avoid mosquito bites at night.

Carry Emergency Contact Information

Travelers should also save the country’s emergency numbers so they can call for help in case of an emergency. 

Saint Kitts and Nevis emergency numbers:

• Emergency:  911
• Hospital:  465-2551
• Police:  465-2241
• Coast Guard:  465-8384 / 466-9280
• Fire Department:  465-2515 / 465-7167

Frequently Asked Questions

What languages do people use in Saint Kitts and Nevis?

English is the official language of Saint Kitts and Nevis. Saint Kitts Creole is also widely spoken in the country.

Is it safe to visit Saint Kitts and Nevis?

Saint Kitts and Nevis is widely considered a safe country to visit. Tourists are still recommended to take common-sense safety precautions during their stay to avoid injuries and unnecessary conflict.

What is the best currency to use in Saint Kitts and Nevis?

Eastern Caribbean Dollar is the local currency in Saint Kitts and Nevis and is the best currency to use during your stay. The US dollar is also generally accepted in the country, but the exchange rate will vary between stores and businesses.

Conclusion: Compare Plans and Quotes Now

The delightful climate and laid-back vibes of the island make Saint Kitts worth visiting, but it is important to remember that insurance is vital. While the public healthcare system is accessible, medical facilities are limited, and specialized care often requires evacuation to other countries.

For expats, we highly recommend securing a comprehensive international health insurance plan that includes medical evacuation coverage, as complex medical procedures typically require treatment in larger Caribbean medical centers, the United States, or Canada. 

Prime Pacific can provide professional assistance for you during your stay in Saint Kitts and Nevis. Our tailor-made international policies can cover a wide range of services, including hospitalization and medical repartitions from the best international insurance companies.

Contact our team of worldwide representatives today to discuss, free of charge, the health insurance options available to you.