Expert Tips on Medical Care in Bali
Healthcare in Indonesia has improved within the last 10 years as government expenditures have steadily increased. The standard of medical care varies between public and private hospitals, as in some areas the public system is more advance and in others the private system.
1. Get Healthcare Insurance.
Expats typically use private healthcare as they are not covered under the Indonesia universal healthcare system.
In order to obtain a visa to live in Bali, it is generally mandatory to have health insurance. It is advisable to use the private health care system, where you will more easily find doctors that will speak English and allow you greater access to healthcare. Care is good in many private hospitals, however they may still be somewhat limited in the services and equipment. Expats should ensure that their insurance policies cover medical evacuation if services are not available on the island.
2. Recommended Private Hospitals
Here are some of the recommended private hospitals where you can schedule an appointment with specialists and where services are provided in English. It is advisable to know ahead of time where you would go for medical services in the event of accidents or illness.
Siloam Hospital, Kuta
Address: Jl. Sunset Road No.818, Kuta
Phone: +62 361 779900
Website: siloamhospitals.com
BIMC Hospital, Nusa Dua
Address: Kawasan ITDC Blok D, Benoa, Nusa Dua
Phone: +62 361 3000911
Website: bimcbali.com
Kasih Ibu Hospital, Saba
Address: Jl. Raya Pantai Saba No.9, Saba, Gianyar
Phone: +62 361 3003333
Website: https://kih.co.id/
3. Pharmacies and Medication
Pharmacies are available throughout Bali. Medications are prescribed differently in Indonesia, as names of medications may be different and what may require a prescription in your home country may not in Indonesia. Also availability of medication may vary, therefore you should consult with a healthcare specialist to see if your medications are available in Bali. Some services like Halodoc are extremely helpful as you can get your medication delivered to your door in an hour.
4. Health Hazards
Many expats underestimate the health hazards that come with living in the tropics. The tropical climate increases the chances of malaria, dengue, and water born illnesses as water in Indonesia is generally not safe to drink. Expat bodies also have not built up immunity to various bacteria, diseases and illnesses, so you will get sick often in your first year. They even have an expression here called “Bali Belly”. It is also recommended that you are up to date on vaccinations. One pro tip, if you get sick, take action and deal with the issue and don’t let things fester.
