What healthcare do expats get in Mauritius?
Moving to Mauritius means understanding a new healthcare system. Whether public or private, knowing your options early prevents costly surprises.
Healthcare System Overview
| Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
| System Type | Mixed |
| Healthcare Quality Index | 78/100 |
| Spending per Capita | €594 |
| Life Expectancy | 73.5 years |
How the System Works
Mauritius's healthcare system is classified as Mixed system. The system combines public and private healthcare elements.
Public vs Private Healthcare
Most countries offer both public and private healthcare options:
- Public healthcare: Available to all registered residents. May have waiting lists for non-urgent procedures. Typically lower cost but less choice of provider.
- Private healthcare: Shorter wait times, choice of specialist. Higher cost but often better facilities. Many expats choose private insurance for the first year.
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Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Universal Emergency | 114 |
| Ambulance | 112 |
| Police | N/A |
Save these numbers in your phone before arriving in Mauritius. In EU countries, 112 works universally. In non-EU countries, learn the local numbers and keep them accessible.
Health Insurance for Expats
As an expat in Mauritius, your insurance options typically include:
- Employer-sponsored insurance: If employed locally, your employer may enrol you in the public system or provide private coverage
- International health insurance: Global plans from providers like Cigna, Allianz, or Bupa — ideal for the first year or if you plan to move again
- Local private insurance: Often cheaper than international plans but may have language barriers in claims
- Public system enrolment: Available once you have a residence permit and employment
Healthcare Quality
With a healthcare quality index of 78/100, Mauritius offers good healthcare by international standards.
Life expectancy in Mauritius is 73.5 years, which is near the global average.
Government healthcare spending is approximately €594 per capita per year.
Practical Tips
- Register immediately: Sign up for health insurance within your first week of arrival
- Bring medical records: Carry translated copies of your medical history, prescriptions, and vaccination records
- Find an English-speaking doctor: Expat communities and forums often maintain lists of English-speaking practitioners
- Prescription medications: Check if your regular medications are available and legal in Mauritius. Bring a 3-month supply with a doctor's letter
- Dental care: Dental coverage varies widely — check what your insurance covers and consider supplemental dental insurance
Additional Practical Information
The following information is compiled from expat community sources and recent reports to complement the official data above.
Key Institutions and Services
Based on current expat reports, the following organisations and services are relevant for newcomers to Mauritius:
- Expats Health Insurance
- Gaffoor Jeetoo Hospital
- Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National Hospital
- Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital
- The Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam National Hospital
- Queen Elizabeth Hospital
- Brown Sequard Mental Healthcare Hospital
- Subramania Bharati Eye Hospital
Additional Data Points
Recent reports and expat sources provide these additional figures for Mauritius:
- Exclusive discounts and additional benefits on Regency for Expats Health Insurance. Get a free quote now and save up to 40% on the best health insurance for Expats.
- While Emergency Services and GP consultations in public hospitals are typically quick, scheduling an appointment with a specialist doctor can take up to 3 months. The process is clearly outlined but lengthy: first, you must visit the hospital and see a GP, after which a file will be created for your appointment. Each step involves triage, waiting periods, and possibly additional tests, such as X-rays and blood tests.
- Getting treated in a private clinic in Mauritius can be very expensive. While routine checkups are fairly affordable, with doctors' fees ranging from Rs 1,000–3,000 per visit, complex procedures and overnight stays can rack you up a bill over Rs 100,000 if you are not properly insured.
- Visiting a GP or specialist doctor in a private clinic usually costs between Rs 1,000–Rs 3,000 per appointment. Any simple diagnostic test, such as a blood test or X-ray, will add another Rs 1,000–3,000 to your bill.
- Some important information to keep in mind
- Mauritians seeking advanced treatments not available in the country often turn to Reunion Island, India, or South Africa. This is an important factor to consider if you need specialized care . Additionally, to ensure comprehensive coverage, many expatriates in Mauritius opt for international health insurance .
- A good health insurance should cover both routine and major care, and most importantly, include repatriation if needed. It's essential to take the time to research and evaluate the offerings of different insurance providers that catch your interest. Key factors to consider in your decision include:
- Vaccinations required for traveling to Mauritius
- Vaccination against yellow fever is optional if you come from Europe, North America, Oceania or Asia, but mandatory if you have recently visited an endemic area.
Additional data sourced from expat community reports. All information should be verified with official sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does mental health care work in Mauritius?
Mental health services in Mauritius vary in availability and quality. Public sector waiting times for non-emergency mental health care can be long. Private psychologists and psychiatrists are available in urban areas. Check if your insurance covers mental health consultations.
What should I do in a medical emergency in Mauritius?
Call the emergency number (114) immediately. In a life-threatening emergency, go directly to the nearest hospital emergency department. Carry your insurance card and a translated summary of any medical conditions or allergies. Hospital emergency departments cannot refuse treatment.
Do I need health insurance in Mauritius?
In most cases, yes. As an expat in Mauritius, you will need health insurance. Public healthcare may be available but private insurance is often recommended for comprehensive coverage. Check visa requirements — many residence permits require proof of health insurance.
How much does healthcare cost in Mauritius?
Government healthcare spending is approximately €594 per capita. Out-of-pocket costs depend on your insurance type and coverage. Private insurance premiums for expats typically range from €100-500 per month depending on age and coverage. GP visits, specialist consultations, and prescriptions may have co-payments.
What is the quality of healthcare in Mauritius?
Mauritius's healthcare quality index is 78/100, indicating good healthcare quality. Life expectancy is 73.5 years. Healthcare spending per capita is €594.
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