Town in Palawan, Philippines
Healthcare in El Nido: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in El Nido
Clinics treat minor problems; serious cases are driven or flown to Puerto Princesa or Manila, which takes hours. Insurance with evacuation cover matters here.
Hospitals for foreigners in El Nido
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| El Nido Community Hospital | Basic care and emergency stabilisation in town |
| Ospital ng Palawan (Puerto Princesa) | Provincial referral hospital, about 5–6 h by road |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ₱500–1,500 ($8–24) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Philippines: Good private hospitals in Manila and Cebu (St. Luke's, Makati Medical Center); small islands have basic clinics, and serious cases need boat or air transfer.
- Pharmacies: Mercury Drug and Watsons are everywhere; pharmacists speak English. Antibiotics officially need a prescription.
- Health spending: US$194 per person a year (2023); 0.8 doctors per 1,000 people (2021), World Bank.
- Emergency: All emergencies 911.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Philippines, 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 El Nido for foreigners?
El Nido Community Hospital: Basic care and emergency stabilisation in town
How much does a doctor's visit cost in El Nido?
About ₱500–1,500 ($8–24) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Philippines?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Philippines expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about El Nido
Going to El Nido solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in El Nido meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Philippines
- El Nido Tourism (Municipality of El Nido)
- Department of Tourism
- Philippine Airlines
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.