Healthcare

Public healthcare in Mauritius is free and covers emergencies, surgeries, and specialist care. However, most expats prefer private hospitals due to shorter wait times, more modern equipment, and English-speaking specialists. Public hospitals can have 2–4 hour waits for non-emergencies and less comfortable facilities. For serious conditions, private hospitals like C-Care Darné and Wellkin are recommended. Use the public system for emergencies and routine vaccinations, and private care for everything else.

Basic local plans covering private GP visits and hospitalisation cost MUR 2,000–3,000/month ($45–$67) per person. Comprehensive plans with full private hospital access, dental, and maternity coverage run MUR 4,000–8,000/month ($90–$178). International plans with global coverage and medical evacuation cost MUR 10,000–18,000/month ($222–$400). Employer-provided insurance is common for Occupation Permit holders. Premium Visa holders must arrange their own coverage.

Call 114 for an ambulance. All public hospitals have 24/7 emergency departments that treat everyone regardless of insurance status - for free. C-Care Wellkin and C-Care Darné also have private 24/7 emergency services. Response times in urban areas are typically 15–30 minutes. For serious emergencies requiring advanced care, medical evacuation to Réunion (1 hour by air), South Africa (4 hours), or Singapore (8 hours) is arranged - ensure your insurance covers this.

Yes - bring your prescription medications with a doctor's letter and original prescription. A 3-month supply is typically allowed through customs. Declare medications at arrivals if requested. Most common medications (blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid, etc.) are available at Mauritian pharmacies at lower prices than Europe. Some specialist medications may need to be ordered - check availability before relocating. Controlled substances require additional documentation.

Yes - virtually all doctors in Mauritius speak English and French, as medical education in Mauritius is conducted in English. Many specialists trained in the UK, France, India, or South Africa. At private hospitals like C-Care Darné and Wellkin, English is used as the primary professional language. Language is not a barrier for healthcare in Mauritius - one of the island's significant advantages for English-speaking expats.