The likelihood is that most expats will want to sign up for a comprehensive private insurance policy, as the basic national health service in the Dominican Republic is far from adequate. Here are some of the health insurance options explained for you.
The first is a type of insurance which involves paying for medical bills yourself, then applying for reimbursement from your insurance provider. A good range of cover is available in this way, but you need to be sure you have the resources to pay for expenses should they arise.
The second type is a system whereby your insurer will pay the majority of your healthcare expenses directly (the excess), while a smaller proportion will be left to you. With this kind of plan, the list of clinics and doctors available to you will be restricted. It is possible to get covered by a private insurer in your home country who will offer overseas cover but bare in mind that these will have much higher excesses and often only cover serious accidents.
Universal’s Gold Med scheme covers you up to a value of US $2 million per year and includes maternity care, hospitalization and medicines. ARS Palic Salud offer a range of individual and family plans. If speaking Spanish is an obstacle, April International offer policies tailored specifically to expats living in the Dominican Republic.