Capital city in Shefa, Vanuatu
Healthcare in Port Vila: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Port Vila
Basic care, strained after the 2024 earthquake. Serious cases are evacuated to Australia, New Zealand or New Caledonia.
Hospitals for foreigners in Port Vila
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Vila Central Hospital | Public hospital; damaged and stretched in 2024 |
| Pacific International Hospital | Private hospital in Port Vila |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: VT3,000–7,000 ($25–58) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Vanuatu: Limited: Vila Central Hospital and private clinics in Port Vila, which often want cash up front. Serious cases need costly evacuation to Australia or New Zealand.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies in Port Vila and Luganville; bring regular medicines and antimalarials if heading north.
- Health spending: US$143 per person a year (2023); 0.2 doctors per 1,000 people (2019), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 111 · Ambulance 115 · Fire 113.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Vanuatu, 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 Port Vila for foreigners?
Vila Central Hospital: Public hospital; damaged and stretched in 2024
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Port Vila?
About VT3,000–7,000 ($25–58) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Vanuatu?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Vanuatu expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Port Vila
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Vanuatu
- Vanuatu Tourism Office
- Airports Vanuatu Limited
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 Spotted something out of date?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.