Health Insurance in Tuvalu, Oceania

Information expatriation

Capital City:Funafuti
Total area: 26 km2
Population: 11,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +688 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikipedia Tuvalu

Health Product: Travel Insurance and Health insurance
Health Insurance information and Sanitary Risk: World Health Map
BLOG: Expat Health insurance Information

Here is a brief description of the healthcare system in the country:

·      Tuvalu has a public healthcare system intended to provide universal access to its population of around 10,000 people.

·      It is part of the Department of Health within the government and primarily funded through the national budget.

·      Care is delivered through localized facilities including the main hospital on Funafuti atoll and smaller clinics on outer islands.

·      Primary care services and community health programs focus on maternal/child health, communicable diseases and basic care.

·      Resources are limited due to small population size and remoteness of the atolls/islands.

·      Specialized services and complex care needs are referred overseas usually to Fiji or New Zealand.

·      Health issues tend to revolve around infectious diseases, non-communicable chronic conditions and limited access to safe water.

·      Recruiting and retaining adequate healthcare workers is a constant challenge.

·      Periodic medical assessments by partners organizations assess system needs and support improvements.

·      While coverage goals are met, quality and resilience face difficulties inherent to small island developing states.

Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:

·      Purchase comprehensive international medical evacuation insurance before arriving as domestic coverage is very limited.

·      Ensure all routine vaccinations are up-to-date including hepatitis A/B, typhoid, influenza, and consider others like rabies depending on travel history.

·      Mosquito-borne illnesses are present risks - use nets, repellent, and protective clothing to avoid dengue, Zika, etc.

·      Only consume bottled or purified water and cook foods thoroughly as dysentery can be common.

·      Medical facilities have minimal capabilities - be prepared to be medically evacuated for even minor issues.

·      Bring adequate supplies of any prescription medications plus copies of valid prescriptions.

·      Heat, humidity, and ocean environment present drowning/injury hazards - exercise safety precautions at all times.

·      Isolation on a small, remote atoll can impact mental well-being - engage socially and use telecommunications.

·      Register with NGO clinics upon arrival to help facilitate care coordination if issues arise.

·      Consider insurance for medical evacuation from seaplane or boat if traveling between islands/countries.