Learn About the Fiji Healthcare System & Medical Insurance Options for Expats
The Republic of Fiji is a group of beautiful islands in the heart of the South Pacific Ocean. Altogether, approximately 333 islands constitute Fiji, and at present, humans occupy only one-third of those islands. Predominantly, an estimated 880,000 of Fiji’s population lives in the cities of the country’s two largest islands – Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Here’s what you need to know about the Fiji healthcare system and medical insurance options for expats.
All the islands are spread across a large body of ocean aggregating 1,290,000 square kilometers. This, in essence, results in among the most beautiful island holiday destinations for any traveler. The majority of these islands have palm-fringed white sand beaches at their borders. They have a vibrant tropical forest, surrounded by blossoming, biodiverse coral reefs, and fish-rich natural ponds.
Expats can acquire international health insurance before they arrive in Fiji. They can cover many of their healthcare costs at any private hospital throughout the country. Click here to learn more about healthcare in Fiji.
Overview of Healthcare
Generally, the world sees Fiji as a developing economy, and the healthcare quality all over the country is evidence of this. At present, there are a total of 25 hospitals in Fiji. These comprise both public and privately-owned hospitals. Expats and their families and travelers may visit the islands for short-term or long–term stay. Either way, they must get a comprehensive health insurance policy, to avail private medical care if the need arises. Note that foreigners residing in many far-flung islands may not be able to reach medical care and may have to travel to the capital to obtain treatment.
How the Fijian Healthcare System Works for Expats?
The Fiji healthcare system covers the public as well as private healthcare facilities. Fiji’s Ministry of Health monitors and runs the healthcare system, besides financing its healthcare facilities. Private facilities in Fiji basically serve foreign nationals. While Fiji’s public healthcare sector relies a lot on general taxation. The healthcare system in Fiji is highly-structured, as compared to that in its Pacific neighbors. Primary care is provided by a network of 84 health centres and 98 nursing stations.
Public Healthcare
Throughout Fiji, the quality of healthcare differs considerably. Among the 25 hospitals in Fiji, 4 are the prime public hospitals: the main island of Viti Levu has two hospitals, and the remaining two are in Vanua Levu. The Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CGMH) in Suva is the biggest and oldest hospital. Close behind it is the Nadi District Hospital. These hospitals are situated in Viti Levu. The two smaller hospitals – Labasa Hospital and Savusavu – are in Vanua Levu.
In villages, care and treatment are of inferior quality. Health facilities are barely sufficient to fulfill the present medical necessities and demands. Also, to be taken into account is the low hiring of medical professionals. This results in long queues. You must consider these factors before you move to Fiji. For expats as well as travelers, they must have international health insurance to access private healthcare. Private healthcare is probably similar in quality to that in your home country.
Private Healthcare
The islands of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu have the most premium private healthcare hospitals. These hospitals typically operate 24-hour medical centers with several skilled general practitioners, specialist medical professionals.
Oceania Hospital is Fiji’s biggest private hospital. It offers many medical facilities like imaging medicine, laboratory medicine, specialty, cardiology, and CT scanning. Pacific Specialist Healthcare (PSH) is another private hospital in Fiji. It was inaugurated in 2017 and houses sophisticated equipment and modern facilities. These comprise vigorous outpatient services, a medical pathology lab, to purpose-built surgical wards, along with in-patient wards. Persons having secured international health insurance will notice that their plan covers these hospitals for healthcare.
Emergency Medical Services in Fiji
In case of a medical crisis, expats can dial 911 for ambulance services in Fiji. Besides, expats must know that emergency medical infrastructure in Fiji is not developed, and responses for ambulances are slow.
Expats and travelers must take account of the alternatives for evacuation from Fiji. This is important in case of emergencies or for necessary treatment not available in the country’s private hospitals and medical centers.
Hospitals in Fiji for Expatriates
In general, the health systems in most urban areas are adequate for routine medical problems Expats should be aware that facilities, medical supplies and equipment are limited in rural areas. A serious illness or emergency will require medical evacuation out of the country so you should have coverage for this. Medication for some ailments can be lacking and blood transfusions are generally reliable.
Here are are the two main hospitals for expats in Fiji:
- Suva: Colonial War Memorial Hospital
- Address: Waimanu Road, Suva
- Tel: +679 331 3444
- Suva: MIOT Pacific Hospitals
- Address: 120 Amy Street, Toorak, Suva
- Tel: +679 330 3404
Medicines and Pharmacies
Pharmaceutical and chemist supplies are usually sufficient. If you plan to travel to Fiji, carry a good supply of necessary medication at all times. Pharmacies are in major towns and cities and also close to or within the majority of tourist resorts. However, a pharmacy that operates 24/7 is rare.
Best Private International Medical Insurance Plans for Expats Living in Fiji
Irrespective of your budget or requirements, Expat Financial, can offer you a policy that best suits your needs. Some policies cater to dental, maternity, specialist consultation, health emergency transportation, inpatient services, and others.
Expats with families can also get an international cover for the whole family. In the case of international students or travelers looking for International health insurance, Expat Financial is the best insurance intermediary. Expats and global citizens can also opt for one of the best insurance plans offered by Cigna Global, Expatriate Group or Allianz.
