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

What is the quality of healthcare in Curaçao?

• Healthcare in the Netherlands Antilles is generally good. Most medical treatments can be performed.
• In urgent situations, patients are transferred from Aruba and Bonaire to hospitals in Curaçao.
• However, not all specialist procedures are possible on the island. In the case of specialist procedures or serious or complicated cases, the air ambulance service is used to travel to the United States or Latin America (Colombia), for example.

How does the public healthcare system work in Curaçao?

• There are several hospitals in Curaçao, including the Curaçao Medical Center (CMC), the Taams Clinic and the Antillean Adventist Hospital.
• Curaçao has a national healthcare system, the so-called Basic Health Insurance (BVZ), which offers mandatory healthcare coverage for residents and persons with a residence permit. This is arranged by the Social Insurance Bank (SVB).
• The BVZ covers basic healthcare, including visits to the general practitioner, hospital admissions, medicines and some specialist treatments. Dental care and optical care are included to a limited extent.
• The premium is automatically deducted from the wages of working residents. For expats who do not work, access to BVZ depends on their residence status.
• Waiting times in the public system can sometimes be long, especially for specialist care.

How does the private healthcare system work in Curaçao?

• Private care in Curaçao is of high quality, with modern facilities and English-speaking doctors. Many expats choose private clinics because of the shorter waiting times and personal attention.
• Private care is more expensive than public care, but still considerably cheaper than in many Western countries.
• Curaçao Medical Center (CMC) is the largest and most modern hospital on the island. Private clinics such as Vidanova and Medwork also offer quick access to specialists.

How is the dental care and dentist arranged in Curaçao?

• It is useful to know that for almost all care, you need a referral from your general practitioner or from a specialist. In the public system, you have to register with a specific GP, while in the private system you are free to choose.
• With private GPs, you pay a considerable amount per consultation. So make sure you are well insured!

How is the dental care and dentist arranged in Curaçao?

• In Curaçao, you have plenty of choice between different dentist(s) and practices, with different specializations and treatment options.
• Basic dental care is covered by the BVZ, but advanced treatments are not.
• Private dentists offer advanced treatments at reasonable prices. Expats with private insurance often choose private dentists because of the flexibility and quality.

How is pregnancy and maternity care arranged in Curaçao?

• Pregnancy care in Curaçao is generally well arranged. Both public and private care options are available.
• Prenatal care, ultrasounds, and deliveries are covered by the BVZ. Deliveries usually take place in the Curaçao Medical Center (CMC).
• Many expats choose private care because of the personal attention. Costs for a private birth start at around $2,500.
• Breastfeeding is encouraged and socially acceptable, including in public places.

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

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Curaçao?

• Petty crime, such as theft, does occur. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in tourist areas and on beaches. Also be aware of the risks of (car) burglary.
• Walking in dark, remote areas is not recommended, as street lighting is sometimes lacking.
• Curaçao is known for its clear water and beautiful snorkeling spots, but be alert for sea urchins and fire coral, which can cause painful injuries.
• Watch out for Portuguese man-of-war (a type of jellyfish with painful stings). They are sometimes spotted while snorkeling or swimming.
• Hiking trails and nature reserves are beautiful, but come prepared or take a guided tour. Bring enough water and ask locals about the safety of specific areas.
• Curaçao is outside the hurricane belt, but heavy rainfall can cause flooding during the rainy season (October-December).

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Curaçao?

• Mosquitoes are a problem, especially during the rainy season. Protect yourself from mosquito bites.
• The tap water in Curaçao is safe to drink and of excellent quality, thanks to desalination plants.
• Due to the intense sun, sunscreen is essential to prevent sunburn and skin problems. Also, make sure you don't get dehydrated, drink enough!

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Curaçao?

• The main roads are well maintained, but many side roads have potholes or are poorly lit.
• A car is quite essential on the island. Traffic rules are sometimes not strictly followed, so be alert.
• Parking in Willemstad can be difficult. Paid parking is available, and pay attention to where parking is prohibited (recognizable by yellow lines).
• Minibuses, buses (ABC app) and taxis (24/7 app)are available, but the system is not very clear and less reliable. Many expats opt for a rental or own car.

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

• Is the trip to Curaçao and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities?
• It is obliged to have a valid health or travel insurance for medical expenses. The minimum coverage is US$15,000. Your insurance needs to cover hospital treatment, emergency treatment and repatriation (including in case of death). Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity?
• Insurance for backpacking and traveling in Curaçao
• Insurance for studying in Curaçao
• Insurance for internships in Curaçao
• Insurance for volunteering in Curaçao
• Insurance for digital nomads or paid work in Curaçao

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

• Health insurance is mandatory in Curaçao for long-term stays. Emigrants with a residence permit can register with the SVB.
• Expats without a residence permit do not have access to the public system and must take out private or international health insurance (not all of which are accepted). If you have your own private insurance that covers as much as the BVZ, you can also be exempted from the BVZ.
• International health insurance for Curaçao
• International travel insurance for Curaçao
• International life insurance for Curaçao
• International income protection insurance for Curaçao