How does healthcare work in Cuba, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Cuba?

• Cuba has a comprehensive health care system that is heavily regulated by the government. The country is internationally known for its focus on preventive care and excellent medical training of doctors. 
• Health care through the Cuban National Health System (SNS) is free for residents, but special medical facilities and insurance are available for expatriates. 
• The healthcare system is made up of three levels - primary, secondary and tertiary. 
• Expats are required to purchase health insurance and cannot simply visit public institutions. For expats, there is an independent system called Servimed with more than 40 clinics for primary and specialty care. 
• Hospitals and clinics do not accept foreign credit or debit cards. You are required to pay with contact money! 
• Local Servimed pharmacies are often short of medications (except for medications for endemic diseases), so it may be wiser to bring your own from your home country. But be sure to pay close attention to import regulations. 
• Psychiatric clinics are few and far between, and getting into them as an expat is difficult. 
• Call 104 for emergency medical services. Medical evacuation may be required, should the situation be life-threatening.

How does the public healthcare system work in Cuba?

• Healthcare is fully socialized and free to Cuban citizens. This applies to both basic care and specialized treatments. 
• The country has very good doctors, but there can sometimes be a lack of medical equipment, medicine or infrastructure. 
• You can find outpatient clinics and hospitals all over the country, but urban care is often better than rural areas. 

How does the private healthcare system work in Cuba?

• Since the revolution by Fidel Castro, the two-part system has been abolished. 
• So there are actually no private institutions - everything is run by the government. 
• However, there are Servimed clinics that specially serve expats. Here you will often find better facilities as well. 

How is the family doctor or general practitioner arranged in Cuba?

• General doctors can be found in the Servimed clinics. 

How is the dental care and dentist arranged in Cuba?

• The dental care sector has suffered a lot in Cuba in recent years. 
• Facilities are often not in good condition and there is a lack of supplies. 

How is the pregnancy, obstetrics & maternity care arranged in Cuba?

• Most births take place in the hospital or a birthing home. 
• Much prenatal care is available, including regular checkups, ultrasounds and various tests. 
• Births take place under the supervision of midwives and gynecologists. 
• Cesarean sections are performed only when medically necessary. 
• Abortion is legal and the country has one of the highest Abortion rates in Latin America. 
• Another great aspect of the system: the government provides free access to contraceptives for locals!  

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Cuba?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safely in Cuba?

• Cuba is relatively safe and there is virtually no crime, although there is a chance of petty crime due to the economic situation.
• There are some criminal “fake cab drivers,” particularly at the airport and around Old Havana. 
• Car-related crime occurs in Havana and other tourist spots. Make sure you have a pre-arranged cab and keep doors and windows closed. 
• Political activities or criticism of the government should be avoided as a foreigner. 
• Do not take pictures in military zones or other closed areas. This can be seen as spying! 
• Be sure to exchange money only at official Cadeca exchange offices. If you exchange your money anywhere else, you risk being fined or even imprisoned. 
• From June to November is hurricane season in Cuba. During this season, floods and landslides are common. There may also be no electricity or water for a while after a hurricane. 

What should you pay attention to in terms of diseases in Cuba?

• Some mosquito-borne diseases are common in Cuba. 
• Drinking tap water is not recommended. 

What should you pay attention to in terms of traffic in Cuba?

• Many means of transportation are not well maintained, streets are often poorly lit and poorly marked. 
• Avoid driving at night because of the poor roads, the risk of crossing animals and people driving without lights.
• Public transportation is often limited and very crowded. Cabs and rental cars are usually a more convenient option. 

What are the best insurance options for backpacking, traveling, doing an internship, studying, volunteering, or working in Cuba?

• Is the trip to Cuba and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity?
• Insurance for backpacking and traveling in Cuba
• Insurance for studying in Cuba
• Insurance for internships in Cuba
• Insurance for volunteering in Cuba
• Insurance for digital nomads or paid work in Cuba

What types of insurance should you get if you're planning to emigrate, work as an expat, or live in Cuba?

• International health insurance for Cuba
• International travel insurance for Cuba
• International life insurance for Cuba
• International income protection insurance for Cuba