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

How does the healthcare system work in Mauritius?

Since gaining independence in 1968, Mauritius has invested heavily in building a solid healthcare system for both residents and visitors.
The country now boasts one of the best-developed healthcare systems in the region, although, like many island nations, it’s seeing a rise in lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.
Mauritius has a mixed public–private healthcare system. Public and private facilities exist at various levels of care, and private options play an important role in providing specialized treatments.
Hospitals are generally well-equipped, staff are well-trained, and facilities are modern. Healthcare access is good throughout the island, as hospitals are strategically located to ensure that even people in remote areas are within reach.
Pharmacies are easy to find across Mauritius, typically open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Monday–Friday) and shorter hours on Saturdays. Most are closed on Sundays.
Private pharmacies often have a wider range of medication.
The ambulance number is 118, and the medical emergency number is 114.

Funded mainly through taxes and free for citizens, public healthcare makes up around 75% of total healthcare services.
Services include emergency care, maternity and child care, surgery, and other primary health services.
Public hospitals are spread across the island and offer general and specialist care.
Quality is generally good, but waiting times can be long, and some specialized treatments are unavailable locally.
Expats may have to pay out-of-pocket for care in public hospitals.

Private healthcare is known for high quality, short waiting times, and internationally trained staff.
Most private hospitals and clinics are in urban areas like Port Louis and Moka.
While public healthcare is decent, private clinics provide faster service, more comfort, and advanced technology — but at a cost.
For complex or specialized procedures, Mauritians and expats sometimes travel abroad for treatment.

Dental care is available in both public and private sectors.
Quality varies depending on the clinic — for advanced treatments like implants or orthodontics, expats usually go to private clinics.
Some people travel abroad for high-end procedures.

Mauritius has one of the best maternal and child healthcare systems in Africa — over 99% of births are attended by trained medical professionals.
The government provides free prenatal care in public hospitals and “Area Health Centers.”
Services include ultrasounds, blood tests, and nutritional advice.
Most foreign women choose private hospitals, which offer modern facilities, shorter waiting times, and English-speaking staff.
Popular private hospitals include Wellkin Hospital (Moka), City Clinic (Port Louis), and Fortis Clinique Darné.
While most births go smoothly, some high-risk pregnancies are referred to La Réunion or South Africa for advanced neonatal care.

Mauritius is one of Africa’s safest destinations. It’s politically stable, friendly, and very used to tourists.
That said, petty theft (pickpocketing, bag-snatching) can happen in markets and busy tourist areas.
The cyclone season (November–May) can bring strong winds and flooding — follow local weather warnings.

Dengue and chikungunya occasionally appear, the use of mosquito repellent is recommended.
Foodborne illnesses (hepatitis A, traveler’s diarrhea) are not rare — avoid tap water.
HIV/AIDS is present, though prevalence is relatively low.

Roads in cities are good, but rural roads can be narrow, poorly lit, or damaged.
Expect wandering dogs, pedestrians, and scooters in your lane.
Traffic can be chaotic in busy areas, and local drivers sometimes treat road rules as suggestions.
Avoid driving at night in rural zones — potholes and unlit roads are an adventurous combination.

Is the trip to Mauritius 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.

A comprehensive international health insurance is strongly recommended, especially when you plan to use private healthcare.
Good insurance means you can choose your favorite doctor, avoid long waiting lists, and receive care that meets international standards.
Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

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