🌴 Healthcare in St. Barth
St. Barthélemy offers reliable, high-quality medical care, combining modern facilities, skilled bilingual staff, and efficient emergency services. Whether you’re here for a short stay or a long-term visit, knowing the island’s medical resources ensures peace of mind during your Caribbean getaway.
🏥 Medical Facilities in St. Barthélemy – Complete Healthcare Guide
1. HĂ´pital de Bruyn in Gustavia –
Hôpital de Bruyn is the island’s primary hospital, centrally located in Gustavia. Though small, it provides essential healthcare services to both residents and visitors.
- Emergency Services: 24/7 care for urgent medical situations, accidents, and trauma.
- Diagnostics: Modern radiology including X-rays, ultrasound, and laboratory testing.
- Specialist Care: Access to general practitioners, pediatricians, gynecologists, dermatologists, and more.
- Surgical & Rehabilitation: Minor surgical procedures and physical therapy services.
- Pharmacy On-Site: Immediate access to common medications and pharmacist support.
Contact & Hours:
- Location: Rue Samuel Fahlberg, Gustavia
- Phone: +590 590 27 60 35
- Emergency: 24/7
- Outpatient & Pharmacy: Weekdays 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM, Saturday mornings
2. Private Clinics & Medical Specialists
In addition to the public hospital, St. Barthélemy has several private clinics and independent medical practices offering both general and specialized care.
- Cabinet Médical de Gustavia: Primary care, health check-ups, travel medicine.
- Clinique du Port: Outpatient treatments, dermatology, physiotherapy.
- St. Barts Dental Clinic: Comprehensive dental services, emergency dental care.
You will also find several independent doctors specializing in gynecology, ophthalmology, and family medicine. A private diagnostic laboratory is available for advanced testing.
3. Pharmacies Across the Island
Multiple pharmacies are conveniently located throughout the island, with many operating extended hours.
- Pharmacie de Gustavia: Central location with a wide range of medications.
- Airport Pharmacy: Convenient for travelers needing prescriptions or over-the-counter products.
Pharmacies in St. Barth typically stock medications for common conditions, and pharmacists can offer advice for minor health concerns or first-aid needs.
4. Emergency Services & Medical Evacuations
For emergencies, dial the island’s standard response numbers:
- Ambulance: 15
- Police: 17
- Fire Services: 18
In severe medical cases, patients are airlifted to advanced hospitals in Guadeloupe, St. Martin, or mainland France. Medical evacuation services are efficient but can be costly without proper insurance, making travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage essential for all visitors.
5. Public Health & Preventive Care
Healthcare in St. Barth follows high French and European standards. Bilingual doctors and nurses are common, and the island’s medical infrastructure supports both residents and tourists effectively.
Preventive care is also emphasized, with testing available for tropical illnesses such as dengue or Zika. Routine vaccinations are recommended for travelers, and insect repellent is strongly advised to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.
6. Tips for Staying Healthy in St. Barth
- Always carry comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation.
- Familiarize yourself with the locations of hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies upon arrival.
- Bring enough prescription medications in original packaging.
- Use insect repellent to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during outdoor activities.