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

What is the quality of healthcare in Aruba?

• Aruba has a well-functioning healthcare system, which is largely supported by the government.
• Both residents and foreigners living and working in Aruba can make use of a wide range of medical services.
• There are a number of hospitals on this island, such as the most famous Dr. Horacio Oduber Hospital and the Medical Centre San Nicholas. In addition, there is a medical faculty of the University of Aruba, where you can go for treatment.
• Basic care can be provided in Aruba, but for long-term hospitalization and emergency situations, the patient can be transferred by air ambulance to a hospital in Curacao or the United States.
• Call 911 in case of a medical emergency.

How does the public healthcare system work in Aruba?

• The system in Aruba is largely public and is managed through the General Health Insurance (AZV, Algemene Ziektekosten Verzekering). This insurance is mandatory for everyone who lives and works in Aruba, including foreigners.
• Once you have registered with the Censo (the public register), you can apply for the AZV. The AZV covers basic care such as GP visits, specialist care, hospitalizations and medicines. It is financed by contributions from employers, employees and the government.
• The public health care system covers both mental and physical medical care.
• The first point of contact is the family doctor, who can refer you to a specialist in the hospital where necessary.

How does the private healthcare system work in Aruba?

• Like in many other countries Aruba offers private medical services for those who do not want to depend on the public system.
• Most private doctors offer immediate medical care when you need it.
• The main language spoken is Dutch.

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

• There are several family doctors in Aruba.
• You can register with a family doctor. They accept new patients if there is room, or you will be put on a waiting list.
• If you need emergency care, you can go to the "huisartsenpost". As a patient, you can see a general practitioner outside office hours.

How is the dental care and dentist arranged in Aruba?

• Dental care in Aruba is of good quality.
• Dental care is available through both public and private practices, but is not always fully covered by the AZV. 
• Many dental treatments are paid for by the patient, unless you have additional insurance.

How is pregnancy and maternity care arranged in Aruba?

• Aruba offers good care for pregnant women and newborns. 
• The first point of contact is the general practitioner, who performs most examinations.
• A natural birth costs approximately between 3000-4500 euros, a caesarean section around 6000-8000 euros.
• Aruba has a helpline (call 131) for pregnant women who are unsure about this and/or are considering an abortion.

How does the pharmacy in Aruba work?

• There are several pharmacies (also known as 'botikas') on the island, often open Monday through Saturday (in general from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m).
• Outside of regular business hours, there is always one designated pharmacy on duty and open 24 hours a day for emergencies. This rotates weekly.
• Pharmacies in Aruba may not prepare prescriptions from a doctor who does not practice medicine in Aruba. However, pharmacies can put you in touch with a local doctor who may write the prescription.
• Virtually all medications, including paracetamol, are available only from pharmacies.

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

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

• Aruba is known as a safe island, both for tourists and residents. In fact, it has been named one of the safest Caribbean islands several times.
• However, there are some things to keep in mind:
  • Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur, especially in tourist areas. Keep valuables out of sight. Keep windows and doors closed, even when you are at home, to prevent theft.
  • Avoid remote beaches or areas without company after sunset.
• Tropical storms sometimes occur on Aruba, especially between June and December. The island does lie outside the hurricane zone.

What should you watch out for in terms of illness in Aruba?

• Due to the heat and dry climate, it is important to drink enough water and limit your exposure to the sun.
• Among other diseases, Dengue fever and Chikungunya can occur. It is recommended to protect yourself against mosquitoes. 
• Tap water is safe to drink and most of the times of good quality,

What should you watch out for in Aruba in terms of traffic?

• The roads in Aruba are generally in good condition, but some roads in remote areas can be unpaved and bumpy.
• Traffic signs and speed limits are not always strictly enforced, so stay alert.
• Drunk driving is a problem in Aruba, especially at night and on weekends. Be careful. 
• Beware of scooters and motorcycles that can make unexpected maneuvers.
• Public transportation is limited to buses that run between the main cities. For more regular transportation, renting or buying a car is the best option.
• Cycling is not common in Aruba due to the lack of bike paths and the hot climate.

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

• Is the trip to or stay at Aruba 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 Aruba
• Insurance for studying in Aruba
• Insurance for internships in Aruba
• Insurance for volunteering in Aruba
• Insurance for digital nomads or paid work in Aruba

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

• It is mandatory to sign up for the local health insurance when you are a resident of Aruba, but even then it is recommended to take out private health insurance to cover additional costs of things like repatriation or medical evacuation. Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries.
• International health insurance for Aruba
• International travel insurance for Aruba
• International life insurance for Aruba
• International income protection insurance for Aruba