Healthcare in Antigua and Barbuda is among the country’s strongest selling points. This guide will outline key information regarding Antigua healthcare services, including:
- Healthcare infrastructure and expenditure
- Healthcare policies
- Natural disaster and health risk
- Vaccine considerations
- Advice for obtaining medical treatment
Antigua and Barbuda Healthcare System
Healthcare infrastructure
Antigua and Barbuda is a renowned health and medical care provider in the Caribbean region. In fact, the Mount St John’s Medical Center in the capital city of St John’s is the most modern hospital among the Caribbean islands. The center also has a smaller extension of the hospital in Barbuda that holds eight beds. However, as infrastructure improves and develops, the number of health centers is increasing.
The nation consists of six medical districts, each of which has a medical officer appointed to carry out medical treatment. Health centers are located within three kilometers of each major settlement and are responsible for delivering primary care. Antigua is home to 25 public health clinics that provide services ranging from dentistry to testing for non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Antigua and Barbuda has a National Drug Formulary that is part of the public healthcare system and provides 380 different types of drugs. This guarantees that everyone with chronic conditions can have access to the necessary medications.
With no hyperbaric chamber on the island, divers needing decompression illness treatment will have to be evacuated to Saba or Guadeloupe.
Is healthcare free in Antigua?
Most healthcare in Antigua is free through the Medical Benefits Scheme for those with legal status in the country. A payroll tax sets aside revenue that pays for universal health coverage, including mental health treatment. The Ministry of Health governs the country’s health sector and receives funds from the Ministry of Finance.
Antigua Government Healthcare Expenditure
The Ministry of Finance funds the nation’s health and climate change goals. The government commits three percent of the country’s GDP to healthcare and is dedicated to ensuring the health and wellness of its inhabitants through strong leadership, good governance, provision of services, sufficient and sustainable financing, and fostering a partnership between the public and private sectors.
The government has also created special policies and plans for mental health, non-communicable diseases, aging, and health information systems, as you will see below. The government has updated legislation meant to regulate healthcare providers with the view that many of our current health issues must be addressed within a legislative framework. It has also created new legislation for food safety and tobacco control and is building a National Strategic Plan for health.
Most Caribbean healthcare in Antigua is free through the Medical Benefits Scheme. Through the scheme, the nation’s government provides free-of-cost medication, medical treatment, and medical supplies to individuals diagnosed with chronic non-communicable diseases such as chronic respiratory disease, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.
Many of these conditions are related to lifestyle and can, therefore, be prevented through cost-effective measures focused on diet, exercise, obesity, and decreased tobacco use and alcohol consumption. As such, the scheme now includes prevention and targets child health as part of its programs.
Antigua Health Policies
The health systems in Antigua and Barbuda are largely financed and operated by the Government, while many agencies have provided cooperation in health on the islands throughout the years.
In addition to establishing a private-public partnership (PPP) with the Cancer Center of the Eastern Caribbean for the provision of affordable quality healthcare and cancer treatment, the Ministry of Health has implemented several plans:
- A non-communicable disease policy and action plan
- A mental health policy
- A National Policy on Aging
Antigua and Barbuda has also taken steps to fulfill the core capacities of the International Health Regulations (IHR). For instance, the nation is a member of the International Atomic Energy Agency, which enables the response of the medical system to radiation emergencies (core capacity 13).
World Health Organization (WHO) Cooperation
Alongside support from the Antigua National Development Fund, the World Health Organization/Pan American Health Organization provides assistance through funding projects and other initiatives to improve healthcare in Antigua. The WHO has also put the Country Cooperation Strategy in place, which will be in effect until 2024.
The WHO has five main areas of focus. The first is establishing a more universal healthcare system to enable universal health coverage for more citizens. This will mainly be achieved by strengthening the Primary Health Care (PHC) to better align with citizens’ needs.
The next priority concerns eliminating diseases and NCDs, while priority three focuses on reducing risk. Measures to reduce NCD cases include the integration of mental health and substance abuse in the PHC.
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Natural Disasters and Disease in Antigua
Antigua and Barbuda’s history of natural disasters is primarily related to hurricanes. While the risk of hurricanes for those living in Antigua is quite low – with only a 33 percent chance of a hurricane affecting the island each year – the nation has been plagued by several hurricanes, such as Hurricane Hugo in 1989 and Hurricane Irma in 2017.
Hurricane Irma left Barbuda uninhabited for the first time in modern history, with Barbuda’s population evacuating to Antigua.
However, the effects of these hurricanes can be more severe. For example, they can threaten Antigua real estate, food security, water quality, tourism, and even the health of citizens.
While natural disasters (including tropical storms) pose many challenges to the islands, diseases are not that prevalent in the nation. In fact, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS affect less than 1 percent of the total population.
Antigua health and mortality rates
Investment in Antigua and it’s healthcare system has raised the average life expectancy by also two years over the last two decades. Antiguans have a life expectancy of 76.9 years. Here are some key statistics for Antigua’s country profile regarding health issues, including mental health disorders, infectious diseases, and mortality rates based on data from the WHO, the World Bank, and UNICEF.
Statistic | Rate |
Life Expectancy (2021) | 79 years old |
Infant Mortality Rate (2021) | 5 per 1,000 births |
Mortality Rate from Communicable Diseases (2019) | 59.3 per 100,000 |
Age-adjusted Mortality from External Causes (2019) | 34.5 per 100 000 |
Cancer Mortality Rate (2019) | 42.1 per 100,000 |
Mental, neurological, substance use disorders and suicide (MNSS) (2020) | 4,290 per 100,000 |
HIV infection incidence rate (2021) | 55.8 per 100,000 |
Healthcare Facilities in Antigua and Barbuda
As mentioned above, Antigua is home to a network of 25 community health facilities and one public hospital, while Barbuda offers an eight-bed medical facility. Both citizens and expats with Antigua permanent residency can access primary healthcare through this network, which is delivered by healthcare staff using a team approach. Notably, the nation has achieved nearly full coverage for vaccine-preventable diseases through its healthcare system.
The country boasts several qualified general practitioners and specialists, as well as well-equipped testing clinics. It is important to note that while Antigua and Barbuda’s healthcare services are known to be adequate, there are some major conditions that cannot be treated. As such, you should check in advance if the facility near you can treat any conditions you and your family may have.
For tourists, most hotels in Antigua have general practitioners as part of their staff. If there isn’t one, you can ask the front desk or reception for a recommendation for the appropriate doctor or specialist. Alternatively, you can find a doctor, ophthalmologist, or dentist in the local telephone book, as their contact information is listed there, or through online searches.
Mount St John’s Medical Center
Mount St John’s Medical Center, the main medical facility located in Antigua, is a 185-bed teaching hospital that is accredited by the Caribbean Medical Council Association and adheres to international standards. Services provided include casualty, intensive care, maternity, pathology, pharmacy, radiology with the latest digital technology, surgery, a children’s ward, and a special care unit for babies born prematurely.
The center also offers health promotion and prevention programs for diabetes and hypertension, as well as antenatal care. In addition to this, the hospital has its own blood bank and provides medical treatment for dialysis, nephrology, oncology, reconstructive surgery, and physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Finally, there are four institutions that cater to the sick and aged.
Address: Mount St John’s Medical Center, Michael’s Mount, St. John’s, Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. Contact: +1 (268) 484 2700
Other medical centers
Adelin Medical Center: Adelin Medical Center is a private hospital open 24 hours a day. It provides a variety of services, including general medicine, ENT, ophthalmology, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, endoscopic surgery, orthopedics, dentistry, X-rays, and physiotherapy.
Address: Adelin Medical Centre, Fort Rd St Johns Saint John, Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. Contact: +1 (268) 462 0866
Fiennes Institute: The Fiennes Institute is an elderly healthcare facility that provides quality care for elderly citizens and residents. It has 100 beds, six wards, and a staff of over 20 nurses. This facility can be particularly useful for expats looking to retire to Antigua and enjoy their golden years basking in the nation’s sunlight.
Address: Fiennes Institute, Queen Elizabeth Highway, St. John’s, Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. Contact: +1 (268) 562 9420
Pharmacies
Most pharmacies open at 9 am and close at 5 pm, Monday to Saturday. Ceco Pharmacy in St John’s is a 24-hour pharmacy open seven days a week and provides full prescription drug services. The majority of the nation’s pharmacies are concentrated in St John’s. Pharmacies in other cities include Dockyard Pharmacy Plus in Nelson’s Dockyard, OmniCare Pharmacy in Cedar Grove, and Heartland Pharmacy Plus in Jolly Harbour.
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Health Insurance in Antigua
Health insurance is important for both expats and travelers when considering healthcare services at hospitals in Antigua. Antigua public healthcare offers basic services, especially in rural areas, leading many visitors and new citizens from Antigua’s citizenship program to opt for private health insurance to access broader treatments and quicker service at private medical facilities.
Local and international health insurance plans are available from companies including:
- MSH International
- Sagicor Life
- Nagico Insurances
- Allianz Care
Coverage options range from routine care and check ups to more specialized treatments and medical evacuation for medical issues requiring treatment abroad. A quote for a comprehensive policy from Allianz Care for American aged 65 is about $392 per month ($4,704 annually), contributing to Antigua and Barbuda’s low cost of living.
Health Advice for Expats Traveling to Antigua and Barbuda
Expats who require medication are advised to bring sufficient supplies of all medications in their original labeled containers for their visit to Antigua. In addition to their medication, expats should have:
- A dated and signed letter from their primary doctor describing their health condition
- A list of the medication
Expats should also ensure that they have proper health coverage and sufficient accessible funds for payment of any medical treatment and repatriation they may require during their visit.
You should visit your doctor at least four to six weeks before your trip to confirm whether you require any vaccinations. When visiting to explore the best things to do in Antigua and Barbuda or relocating to the country, there are some important points to consider:
- Dengue fever is endemic to the Caribbean region and can strike throughout the year.
- UK health authorities categorize the nation as a risk area for the transmission of the Zika virus.
- There have been confirmed cases of Chikungunya virus in the nation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Antigua and Barbuda Healthcare
What types of healthcare facilities are available in Antigua?
A network of 26 community health facilities, one public hospital in Antigua, and an eight-bed medical facility in Barbuda provide healthcare services and medical treatment to the local and expat inhabitants of Antigua and Barbuda.
How can tourists access medical care in Antigua?
Tourists visiting Antigua and Barbuda should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance or international health insurance. This will enable you to access quality healthcare and receive medical treatment without incurring high out-of-pocket expenses.
What is the process for obtaining prescription medications in Antigua?
You can generally purchase common medications over the counter at any of Antigua and Barbuda’s pharmacies. However, you will need to obtain a prescription from a licensed physician for prescription medications.
Are there any recommended vaccinations before traveling to Antigua?
There are currently no vaccinations necessary when traveling to Antigua and Barbuda unless you are coming from an endemic area. General vaccination recommendations when traveling include:
- Chickenpox
- Flu
- Polio
- Shingles
- Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
- Hepatitis A and B
- Rabies
- Tuberculosis (TB)
Additional routine vaccines that may be beneficial include rabies, Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and yellow fever.
How does the health insurance system work in Antigua for foreigners?
There is no state health insurance system in Antigua and Barbuda, so there is no need to apply to join it. However, as a resident of the country who requires medical treatment, you can access the public healthcare system by visiting a public healthcare facility. Foreign residents can access the public healthcare system but may be required to pay a fee
What emergency medical services are available in Antigua?
The Antigua Barbuda Emergency Medical Services provides urgent pre-hospital treatment and stabilization for serious illnesses and injuries, including on-scene treatment for those requiring urgent medical care. They also provide transport to definitive care.
What languages are spoken in medical facilities in Antigua?
Healthcare providers speak English, as this is the official language in Antigua and Barbuda. They may also speak local dialects.
Are mosquitoes bad in Antigua?
In common with many tropical destinations, there exists a risk of insect bites from mosquitoes and sand flies in Antigua. However, the country does not pose a risk of contracting mosquito-related diseases, including malaria or yellow fever.
Can you buy antibiotics over the counter in Antigua?
Travelers visiting Antigua and Barbuda can buy over-the-counter painkillers like aspirin, paracetamol, and ibuprofen. However, antibiotics are categorized as prescription drugs in Antigua, requiring a prescription from a local doctor to obtain them.
Can you get dengue fever in Antigua?
There have been reported cases of the mosquito-borne virus dengue fever in Antigua And Barbuda, and the nation also carries a risk of mosquito-borne viruses such as zika and chikungunya.
Can you drink tap water in Antigua?
Although water in Antigua is typically safe for drinking, visitors are recommended to drink bottled or filtered water to minimize the risk of stomach upset or reactions to unfamiliar water sources.
