Dominican health care tips.

The Dominican Republic offers a three tier health system;

State provision, (minimal)

Public insured service, (adequate to good)

Private health care (mixed but mostly pretty good)

Private health care is available through insurers such as ARS Humano, Palic and ARS Universal. This coverage like most private health cover is tiered, the more you pay up front, the more cover you get when you need it.

Medicines are an additional expense for everyone. Pharmacies offer night time services and delivery.

Most doctors practice privately as consultants in their specialism. Not all accept insurance cover and may ask for cash payment. You may, however, be able to reclaim this.

Some doctors are also internistas which is like a GP or general clinician who will refer you to an appropriate specialist. Otherwise go to Emergency at your chosen hospital and wait.

Tests: Doctors love doing batteries of tests here so prepare for fasting and samples of all sorts.

Appointments: Beware! Being given a timed appointment does not always indicate when you will see the doctor. Often a time is given simply to establish a workable number for that days surgery.

These days we also have a 911 Emergency service. You will need to state hospital of choice.

Medical contact numbers are changing frequently, therefore the most efficient method once you’ve joined the club, is to post the question on the closed Facebook page and usually you’ll have recommendations within no time.

Stay Well!