Jamaica Health and Medical

When traveling to Jamaica, consider these tips for a safe, healthy and enjoyable trip

To Your Health

 
 
 

Health and medical considerations are a concern whenever traveling abroad, but for the most part, you'll find good quality health care in Jamaica.

Travelers to Jamaica are required to meet only one health requirement. Tourists above the age of 1 must obtain a yellow fever vaccination certificate only if traveling to Jamaica from a contaminated locale. Jamaica has no other health requirements before arriving on the island, but hepatitis A is a frequently occurring disease, and acquiring proper vaccinations is advised before traveling.

For health and medical treatment while staying in Jamaica, first consult the hotel for recommendations regarding a medical clinic, dentist or doctor. The majority of hotels keeps doctors and dentists on call so, in non-emergency situations, check with the concierge before making the trip to the hospital. If you need urgent medical attention, visit one of Jamaica's 16 public or six private hospitals located around the island. The following list provides the names, locations and phone numbers of the primary medical facilities tourists should visit if necessary:

Hospital Location Telephone
University Hospital of the West Indies Mona, Kingston 876-927-1620
St. Ann's Bay Hospital St. Ann's Bay 876-794-8565
Port Antonio Hospital Naylor's Hill, Port Antonio 876-715-5778
Mo Bay Hope Medical Center Half Moon Resort, Montego Bay 876-953-3981
Cornwall Regional Hospital Mt. Salem, Montego Bay 876-952-5100

For an ambulance, dial 110 immediately. Also, be sure to check if your insurance policy covers medical expenses incurred while traveling. Medical expenses in Jamaica can be costly, so if your insurance company does not provide sufficient coverage, you should obtain traveler's insurance before visiting the island.

Many larger hotels and chains in Jamaica will have a doctor on-call at all times. It is best that you have any paperwork from your own doctor if you may need it on your travels, including prescription information.

Drinking Water

Piped-in water is usually safe to drink because it is filtered and chlorinated. However, the chlorination could cause mild abdominal upsets, so if you're prone to stomach problems, it may be wise to drink bottled water, which is readily available.

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