Island in Hawaii, United States
Healthcare in Big Island: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Big Island
Island hospitals handle basic and emergency care. Serious cases are flown to Honolulu, so travel insurance with evacuation is important.
Hospitals for foreigners in Big Island
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hilo Medical Center | Largest hospital on the island, on the east side |
| Kona Community Hospital | Kealakekua; emergency care for the west side |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: $170–320 ($170–320) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In United States: Excellent care at the world's highest prices: an uninsured ER visit can cost thousands of dollars and a hospital stay far more. Travel insurance with high medical cover is essential.
- Pharmacies: CVS and Walgreens are everywhere, some open 24 hours. Many medicines need a US prescription; urgent-care clinics handle minor issues.
- Health spending: US$13,473 per person a year (2023); 3.7 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 911 · Ambulance 911 · Fire 911 · All emergencies 911.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter United States, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Big Island for foreigners?
Hilo Medical Center: Largest hospital on the island, on the east side
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Big Island?
About $170–320 ($170–320) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for United States?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in United States expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Big Island
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: United States
- Hawaii County Mass Transit Agency (Hele-On)
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park (NPS)
- Hawaii Airports Division
- Go Hawaii: Island of Hawaii
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.