Health Insurance in Palau, Oceania

Information expatriation

Capital City: Melekeok
Total area: 459 km2
Population: 20,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +680 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikipedia Palau

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:

·      Palau has a universal healthcare system called the Palau National Health Plan which provides coverage to all citizens and legal residents.

·      Care is delivered through the Belau National Hospital, an outpatient medical clinic, and various private healthcare providers.

·      The system is funded through general tax revenues, social security payroll taxes, and out-of-pocket payments. The government heavily subsidizes costs.

·      All basic services including preventative care, routine doctor visits, diagnostic tests, and hospitalization are covered by the plan.

·      Residents are free to choose any licensed provider, though most utilize the main public hospital and clinic.

·      Specialty care and some expensive treatments require approval and may involve travel to Philippines or Guam for treatment.

·      Key health challenges include non-communicable diseases from lifestyle changes and limited intensive care capabilities.

·      Overall the system emphasizes accessibility and aims to provide quality care to Palau's small population through universal coverage.

·      In summary, Palau's universal healthcare model revolves around the single public hospital and insurance program, subsidizing care for all legal residents. More complex services require overseas referrals.

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

·      As a visa condition, all residents must enroll in the Palau National Health Plan for insurance coverage.

·      Carry proof of insurance at all times for access to services at the public hospital/clinic.

·      Bring needed prescription medications as availability is limited with a small population/facilities.

·      Emergency evacuation plans are important as intensive/specialty care requires travel overseas.

·      Consider supplemental travel insurance covering medical evacuation from Palau if needed.

·      Understand coverage details like referral needs for off-island treatment and any co-payments.

·      Mental healthcare services may have limited availability compared to physical health.

·      Only basic diagnostic and emergency services are available locally - non-urgent complex care requires travel.

·      Ensure documentation like insurance and visas stay up to date for continuous eligibility.

·      Medical facilities and providers only cater to Palau's small population - manage expectations accordingly.

·      With insurance enrollment and advance planning for overseas referrals, expats can rely on Palau's universal coverage for basic needs locally.