Verified Facts
Healthcare in Reunion is generally of high quality, with a well-organized system and easy access to medical facilities, especially in urban areas like Saint-Denis.
Quick Facts
Healthcare Overview
The healthcare system in Reunion is based on the French model, with a strong emphasis on public healthcare. The system is universal, meaning that all residents have access to medical care, regardless of their income or social status. The quality of care is generally high, with well-trained medical professionals and modern equipment. However, there can be some differences in the quality of care between urban and rural areas, with urban areas tend to have better-equipped hospitals and more specialized medical professionals. The public healthcare system is funded through a combination of government funding and patient contributions, with patients typically required to pay a small fee for consultations and treatments.
The public healthcare system in Reunion is complemented by a private sector, with many private hospitals and clinics offering specialized care and shorter waiting times. However, private healthcare is generally more expensive than public healthcare, and may not be covered by the universal healthcare system. Overall, the healthcare system in Reunion is well-organized and provides high-quality care, making it an attractive destination for medical tourism.
In terms of access to healthcare, urban areas like Saint-Denis tend to have better access to medical facilities and specialized care, while rural areas may have more limited options. However, the government has made efforts to improve access to healthcare in rural areas, with mobile health clinics and telemedicine services available in some areas.
Hospitals & Clinics
| Facility | Location | Type | Specialties | English-Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Centre Hospitalier de Saint-Denis | Saint-Denis | Public | General medicine, surgery, pediatrics | Yes |
| Clinique de la Réunion | Saint-Denis | Private | General medicine, surgery, cardiology | Yes |
| Hôpital de la Montagne | Saint-Benoît | Public | General medicine, surgery, emergency care | Limited |
| Centre Médical de l'Océan Indien | Saint-Pierre | Private | General medicine, surgery, dermatology | Yes |
| Clinique du Sud | Saint-Joseph | Private | General medicine, surgery, orthopedics | Limited |
| Hôpital de Saint-Pierre | Saint-Pierre | Public | General medicine, surgery, emergency care | Yes |
Health Insurance
- Private health insurance is recommended for visitors and expats, as it can provide additional coverage and access to private healthcare facilities.
- Local insurance options are available, including mutual insurance companies and private insurance providers.
- Coverage for expats is generally available, with many insurance companies offering specialized plans for expatriates.
- Costs can vary depending on the type of insurance and the level of coverage, but expect to pay around 500-1000 EUR per month for a comprehensive plan.
- French social security is also available for residents, providing access to public healthcare facilities and services.
- Supplemental insurance may be necessary to cover additional costs, such as private hospital stays or specialized treatments.
Pharmacies & Medications
- Availability of medications is generally good, with many pharmacies carrying a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter medications.
- Prescription requirements are similar to those in France, with many medications requiring a prescription from a licensed medical professional.
- Common brands are widely available, including international brands like Pfizer and Sanofi.
- Costs can vary depending on the type of medication and the pharmacy, but expect to pay around 10-20 EUR for a prescription medication.
- Pharmacy access is widespread, with many pharmacies located throughout the island, including in rural areas.
Vaccinations & Health Risks
- Required vaccinations include yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever, depending on the individual's health status and travel plans.
- Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis B, rabies, and influenza, depending on the individual's health status and travel plans.
- Endemic diseases include dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika virus, which are all present on the island.
- Water safety is generally good, with tap water safe to drink in most areas.
- Food safety is also generally good, with many restaurants and food establishments following proper food handling and preparation procedures.
- Sun protection is important, as the sun can be strong in Reunion, especially during peak hours.
Medical Tourism
- Popular procedures include cosmetic surgery, dental care, and orthopedic surgery, which are often less expensive than in France or other European countries.
- Accredited hospitals include the Centre Hospitalier de Saint-Denis and the Clinique de la Réunion, which are both accredited by the French healthcare authorities.
- Cost savings can be significant, with many medical procedures costing 50-70% less than in France or other European countries.
- Language is not typically a barrier, as many medical professionals speak English and other languages.
Emergency Procedures
- Emergency number is 15, which can be called in case of a medical emergency.
- Ambulance reliability is generally good, with many ambulances equipped with modern medical equipment and staffed by trained paramedics.
- Nearest hospitals can be found in urban areas like Saint-Denis and Saint-Pierre, which have well-equipped hospitals and emergency services.
- Insurance claims can be complex, so it's recommended to have a good understanding of your insurance coverage and procedures before seeking medical care.
- Medical evacuation may be necessary in some cases, especially if specialized care is not available on the island.