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

How does the healthcare system work in Palau?

Healthcare in Palau is limited, but of good quality.
The country has 340 islands, of which only twelve islands are inhabited. The majority of the population lives in Koror, where most medical care can be found.
There is a single public hospital, Belau National Hospital, and three private clinics.
There are also eight health centers, Community Health Centers (CHCs).
Palau still uses many traditional medicines and these medicines are quite successful for diabetes and obesity, among other things.
The largest pharmacy is connected to Belau National Hospital. There are also a few private pharmacies.
In case of an emergency, you usually need the number of Belau National Hospital. In Koror, you can also call 911. You may be picked up by ambulance, or you may need a medical evacuation.

The Ministry of Health and Human Services (MHHS) oversees healthcare in the country. The country has its own universal health care system, which allows residents and people with a work visa to receive affordable care.
Care includes emergency care, primary care, pregnancy care, preventive treatments, pharmaceutical care and dental care.
The main healthcare institution is the Belau National Hospital in Koror.
Due to the shortage of facilities and specialists, people are often referred to other countries such as Taiwan, the Philippines, India and the US (Hawaii). There is a so-called “Medical Referral Program” for this cause. There is also a “Visiting Specialist Program”, specialists come to Palau specifically to treat patients.

There are a few private health centers. These offer basic medical care, dental care, ophthalmology and pharmaceutical care.
Local private insurance is not really available on Palau because private care is very limited.

With the limited care on the island, every doctor is also your general practitioner.

Basic dental care is available at the Belau National Hospital and some health centers. Private care is also available, offering slightly more options.

There is good, but limited maternity care available in Palau. For locals, this is mainly arranged through the Maternal and Child Health Program of the MHHS.
For all foreign mothers-to-be, it may be wise to spend at least a large part of the pregnancy and delivery abroad, because better medical care is available here.

Palau is a safe country. In terms of crime, you shoul watch out for some pickpocketing here and there.
Nature, on the other hand, can cause somewhat worse damage. Tropical storms can be violent and throw your plans into disarray. There is also a risk of tsunamis. Be prepared and stay informed, always know where to go in the event of a tsunami!

The roads are generally in reasonable condition on Koror, for cars... You don't have to count on cycle paths or pedestrian paths.
The Compact Road around Babeldaob is in good condition. Secondary roads are often of poorer quality.
Speed limits are often ignored and drunk drivers are a danger in the evenings.

Is the trip to Palau and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

For a stay in Palau, international travel insurance with evacuation coverage and coverage in neighboring countries is absolutely necessary.
Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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