Bahamas Health and Medical

The Bahamas' medical facilities are comparable to those in the United States. However, medical treatment isn't always readily available for some risks associated with visiting the islands.

These include sunburn, sunstroke, and sickness caused by ingesting foreign food and beverages such as rum punches, exotic fruits, and shellfish. However, these medical ailments can be avoided with proper precaution. In particular, food served at resorts is usually not a health concern because it is freshly prepared.

Drinking Water

Local tap water is safe to drink in The Bahamas, but the taste sometimes alarms travelers because it tends to be a bit salty in most places. If you prefer, bottled water is widely available.

Immunizations

Visitors to The Bahamas who are coming from a location contaminated with yellow fever must present a vaccination certificate. No other immunizations are required, but vaccinations for diphtheria, hepatitis B, tuberculosis, and typhoid are recommended.

Bahamas Medical Facilities

All told, there are approximately 50 medical facilities are located throughout The Bahamas. If you have a medical emergency in The Bahamas, dial 911 (919 in the Out Islands). For medical conditions that do not require emergency treatment, visit one of the following facilities:

Princess Margaret Hospital
Shirley Street, P.O. Box N-3730
New Providence, Nassau, Bahamas
242-322-2861
Rand Memorial Hospital
East Atlantic Drive, P.O. Box F-40071
Freeport, Grand Bahama
242-352-6735

Emergency flight services are available if necessary from both of these facilities.

Physicians

Some of the major cities, such as Nassau, Cable Beach, and Freeport/Lucaya, house many medical practices that are privately owned and operated while others are government-run facilities. With so many options, it is best to ask for local advice about a particular physician. Ask a local resident or consult your hotel concierge for a list of suggested doctors or dentists. Most of the larger hotels and resorts also have a doctor on-call solely to attend to guests, needs.

Medical Insurance

Medical expenses can be costly. Check with your insurance provider about coverage in foreign nations. Depending on your current health insurance policy, you may need to add a provision for travel-related medical expenses before visiting The Bahamas. Unfortunately, many doctors and hospitals in The Bahamas do not take U.S. medical insurance. Therefore, make sure you have cash on hand if necessary. It is then your responsibility to seek reimbursement from your insurance provider after returning to the U.S.

Find an Embassy in The Bahamas

Knowing where to find your embassy or consulate in The Bahamas can be a great help for foreign travelers.