Travel to Cayman Islands to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

How does the healthcare system work in the Cayman Islands?

What is the quality of healthcare in the Cayman Islands?

• The Cayman Islands have a small but high-quality system with a public provider (HSA) and a lot of private care.
• There are several modern hospitals and clinics, especially on Grand Cayman.
• Basic health insurance (SHIC) is legally required for all residents/employees. Fortunately, your employer is also required to pay at least 50% of this.
• Employers are required to offer at least this coverage; many people opt for a more comprehensive policy and/or international expat insurance.
• Medical costs can quickly mount up. It's not uncommon to request a quote if you need major treatment. It's important to ensure that the quote details the costs and the treatments.
• Basic and emergency care is available locally; complex or highly specialized care can be referred to private centers or (if necessary) abroad (often the US).
• Pharmacies are easy to find and often well-stocked. A doctor's prescription is required for some medications.
• In an emergency, call 911.

How does the public healthcare system work in the Cayman Islands?

• The public healthcare system is limited and primarily intended for residents.
• Depending on the insurance coverage you choose, you'll be covered to a greater or lesser extent. In any case, you'll be covered for hospital visits, surgeries, chemotherapy, some medications, and emergency care. Some residents (e.g., government officials, vulnerable groups) can receive public coverage through CINICO.
• Healthcare is largely financed by taxes and mandatory health insurance premiums.
• The healthcare system isn't really comparable to more developed countries. Basic care is provided, but often with waiting times and limited specializations.
• You need a referral to see a specialist, and getting an appointment can take a while.

How does the private healthcare system work in the Cayman Islands?

• Private healthcare is much better organized, and it can be quite expensive.
• In the private sector, you have access to modern hospitals and private clinics with English-speaking staff.
• Expats and tourists therefore usually use private healthcare, partly because it's often faster.
• Outright payment is often required, unless your insurance has a contract.

How is the general practitioner arranged in the Cayman Islands?

• There are general practitioner practices, usually affiliated with private clinics.
• Making an appointment is often quick, but of course, there's a fee.
• Many general practitioners have international training (US, UK, Canada).

How is the dentist arranged in the Cayman Islands?

• Dental care is widespread and of good quality. You can choose between public and private care.
• The practices are modern, and the staff in private facilities often speak good English.
• The costs are not prohibitive, so insurance coverage is important.

How is pregnancy care arranged in the Cayman Islands?

• You can choose to have care and delivery in a number of private facilities, or through the Health Services Authority (HSA).
• The quality of care is good, but often very expensive without good insurance.
• Prenatal and postnatal care are available. Midwives are also available.
• Deliveries usually take place in a private hospital, but complications may require evacuation to the US.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in the Cayman Islands?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in the Cayman Islands?

• The Cayman Islands are relatively safe compared to other Caribbean islands.
• Crime is certainly present, but mainly petty crime (theft, burglaries).
• Large cities like George Town are safe during the day, but it's advisable to remain alert at night, especially for women.
• Be careful during hurricane season (June through November).

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in the Cayman Islands?

• There are no major tropical diseases like malaria, but mosquitoes can transmit dengue, chikungunya, or Zika.
• Dehydration and heatstroke are also definite risks in the Cayman Islands.
• Tap water is usually safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in the Cayman Islands?

• In the Cayman Islands, people drive on the left.
• Roads are well-maintained, especially on Grand Cayman.
• Be careful with scooters and bicycles: there are few bike lanes, and you're sure to encounter reckless driving.
• Drinking and driving can be expensive!

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in the Cayman Islands?

• Is the trip to the Cayman Islands 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.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for the Cayman Islands if you are going to live there for a while?

• Always check whether your insurance covers transit in the US (often via Miami).
• Choose insurance that also covers repatriation to your home country.
• When applying for your visa, you are usually required to be able to prove that you have valid health insurance.
• If you have private insurance, you can choose your own doctor in the Cayman Islands.
• Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.