Medical Coverage In The Dominican Republic
Do you have medical coverage in the Dominican Republic? Are you protected by your United States insurance provider? In other words, do you have medical insurance and are you covered in the Dominican Republic while on vacation?
The Department of State strongly urges Americans to consult with their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to confirm whether their policy applies overseas and whether it will cover emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation.
Americans traveling in the Dominican Republic should be aware that Dominican hospitals often require payment at the time of service and may take legal measures to prevent patients from departing the country prior to payment.
Health insurance, including provision for medical evacuation, is recommended. There are good hospitals and other private medical facilities located in Puerto Plata, ten minutes from Sosua.
Bring adequate supplies of your medications in their original containers. Get a a signed, dated letter from your physician describing all medical conditions and listing all medications you will be taking with you. Pack all medications in carry-on luggage.
Bring your insurance documents. Ask your insurance provider if your insurance plan will make payments directly to the hospital or reimburse you later.
Medicare and Medicaid programs do not pay for medical services outside the United States.
Dominican Medical Precautions
Before you begin your Dominican travel you’ll need to know about the medical precautions necessary to ensure a fun and exciting Caribbean vacation.
While the water is potable in many parts of the Dominican Republic, travelers are still advised to drink bottled water as a precaution. Bottled water is widely available throughout the country and because of the strength of the Caribbean sun, it is recommended that vacationers drink at least 10 glasses a day to avoid dehydration.
It is essential for travelers to the Dominican Republic to pack sun screen of SPF 15 or higher, again, due to the strength of the Caribbean sun. In addition, for those traveling to jungle locales, mosquito repellent is strongly recommended.