“Health:
While private hospitals in large cities are generally adequate, the quality of care can vary. Public hospitals and those outside large cities are not necessarily up to U.S. medical standards. You may need to pay a deposit or fees before receiving emergency medical treatment. See our
website for additional information on medical assistance in the Dominican Republic.
We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most health care providers in the Dominican Republic only accept cash payments and these payments often must be made prior to treatment and/or before the patient’s hospital discharge. See our webpage for more
information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
We strongly recommend
supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
If traveling with prescription medication, check with the
government of the Dominican Republic to ensure the medication is legal in the Dominican Republic. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.
The following diseases are prevalent:
- Chikungunya
- Dengue
- Yellow Fever
- Zika
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all
vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Tap Water: Tap water is unsafe to drink. Bottled water and beverages are considered safe.
Cosmetic Surgery: Be aware of the risks associated with cosmetic surgery in the Dominican Republic. U.S. citizens have suffered serious complications or died during or after having cosmetic surgery in the Dominican Republic, including from complications and infections detected only after departure from the Dominican Republic. Verify the credentials and qualifications of any plastic surgeon and discuss post-surgical care and the detection and management of post-surgical infection prior to any procedure. See the CDC’s website on
medical tourism for additional information.
Further health information: