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Living in Bali: Healthcare Tips from Long-Term Expats

| Bali

Bali has long been a magnet for expats seeking a tropical lifestyle, vibrant culture, and lower cost of living. But moving to paradise comes with its own set of challenges—especially when it comes to healthcare. Whether you're a digital nomad, retiree, or family relocating, understanding the local healthcare landscape is crucial. In this guide, long-term expats share their hard-earned wisdom on navigating Bali's medical system, from finding English-speaking doctors to handling emergencies and managing costs.

Understanding Bali's Healthcare System

Bali's healthcare infrastructure has improved significantly in recent years, but it still varies widely depending on where you are. In major tourist areas like Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, and Sanur, you'll find modern clinics and hospitals with international standards. However, in more remote areas, facilities may be basic.

Expats often rely on a mix of local clinics (klinik), private hospitals, and medical evacuation to Singapore or Australia for serious conditions. It's essential to have a plan for both routine care and emergencies.

Public vs. Private Healthcare

Public hospitals (Rumah Sakit Umum) are affordable but often crowded and may lack English-speaking staff. Private hospitals, such as BIMC and Siloam, offer better amenities, shorter wait times, and English-speaking doctors—but at a higher cost. Many expats opt for private care for peace of mind.

Finding English-Speaking Doctors

One of the biggest concerns for expats is the language barrier. While many doctors in tourist areas speak English, it's not guaranteed everywhere. Long-term expats recommend:

  • Asking your embassy or consulate for a list of recommended English-speaking doctors.
  • Joining expat Facebook groups (e.g., "Bali Expats" or "Canggu Community") to get personal recommendations.
  • Using our platform to find English-speaking doctors and clinics in Bali—we connect you with trusted providers who understand expat needs.

Dr. Jane, a retired expat in Ubud, advises: "Always check if the doctor has experience treating foreigners. Some local doctors are excellent but may not be familiar with Western medical practices or prescriptions."

Health Insurance: A Must-Have

While Bali's healthcare is relatively affordable, serious accidents or illnesses can quickly become expensive. Expats strongly recommend international health insurance that covers Indonesia, including medical evacuation. Local Indonesian insurance (like BPJS Kesehatan) is available for residents with a KITAS, but it may not meet expat expectations for quality or speed.

Cost estimates: International health insurance for a single expat in Bali can range from $1,000 to $3,000 per year, depending on age and coverage. Medical evacuation to Singapore can cost upwards of $20,000—so ensure your policy includes it.

Common Health Issues and Prevention

Bali is a tropical paradise, but it comes with tropical health risks. Expats commonly face:

  • Bali Belly: Traveler's diarrhea caused by unfamiliar bacteria. Stay hydrated, avoid raw foods, and carry oral rehydration salts.
  • Dengue Fever: Mosquito-borne. Use repellent, wear long sleeves, and eliminate standing water around your home.
  • Rabies: Present in Bali. Avoid stray animals, and if bitten, seek immediate medical care.
  • Sunburn and Heat Exhaustion: Use sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Vaccinations: Ensure you're up to date on routine vaccines, and consider hepatitis A, typhoid, and rabies vaccines before arrival.

Pharmacies and Medications

Pharmacies (apotek) are plentiful, but not all medications are available. Bring a supply of prescription meds, and carry a doctor's note. For specialized drugs, you may need to visit a hospital pharmacy in Denpasar or Singapore.

Expats recommend learning the Indonesian names for common medications or using a translation app. For example, paracetamol is the same, but ibuprofen is often sold as "proris" or "ibuprofen."

Emergency Preparedness

In an emergency, call 118 for an ambulance, but be aware that response times can be slow. Many expats prefer to take a taxi or private car to the nearest private hospital. Save these numbers:

  • BIMC Hospital: +62 361 761263
  • Siloam Hospitals Bali: +62 361 779900
  • Your embassy's emergency line

Also, know the location of the nearest hyperbaric chamber (for diving accidents) and international clinics.

Mental Health and Wellness

Moving to a new country can be stressful. Many expats experience culture shock, loneliness, or anxiety. Fortunately, Bali has a growing number of English-speaking therapists and counselors, both in-person and online. Yoga, meditation, and community groups also provide support.

Cost of Healthcare in Bali

For uninsured expats, here are some approximate costs (2026):

  • General practitioner visit: $20–$50
  • Specialist consultation: $50–$150
  • Emergency room visit: $100–$500 (before treatment)
  • Dental cleaning: $30–$70
  • Blood test: $20–$100

These are significantly lower than in Western countries, but still add up. Insurance is highly recommended.

Local Tips from Long-Term Expats

  • Build a relationship with a local doctor: Having a go-to GP who knows your history can streamline care.
  • Keep a medical file: Include vaccinations, prescriptions, and allergies in English and Indonesian.
  • Learn basic Indonesian medical terms: It helps in emergencies.
  • Don't drink tap water: Stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Use our platform to find English-speaking doctors: It's a trusted resource for expats.

Living in Bali is a rewarding adventure, and with the right healthcare strategy, you can enjoy it with peace of mind. Stay informed, insured, and connected to the expat community—and you'll be well-prepared for whatever comes your way.