Let’s hope you never have to read this article while you are actually in the Dominican Republic. But the reality of travel is that things happen. You might step on a sea urchin at the beach, eat one too many tacos at the buffet, or slip by the pool.
If that happens, you need to know exactly where to go. The healthcare system in the Dominican Republic is a tale of two worlds: Publicand Private. As a tourist, you must stick to the private sector. Here is your survival guide to navigating the medical system without losing your mind (or your life savings).
1. The Emergency Numbers
First, put these in your phone now.
General Emergency:911
The Good News:Yes, it is the same number as in the US/Canada. It connects you to Police, Ambulance, and Fire.
The Local Reality:In Punta Cana and Santo Domingo, they usually have English-speaking dispatchers. However, if you are in a remote area, hand the phone to a local/hotel staff member to explain the location clearly. GPS can be tricky here.
Politur (Tourist Police):+1 (809) 200-3500
These are the officers you see in white shirts and blue hats. They are specifically assigned to help tourists. If you lost your passport or feel unsafe, call them first.
2. Hospitals: The "Credit Card" Rule
If you need a doctor, do not go to a "Hospital Público." They are underfunded, overcrowded, and geared towards locals with no insurance. You will wait for hours.
Go to a Private Clinic ("Clínica"). Private healthcare in the DR is world-class. The facilities are modern, clean, and the doctors often trained in the US or Europe.
The Top Clinics in Punta Cana:
IMG Hospital:(Located near the highway). This is arguably the most modern, aimed specifically at medical tourism. They speak perfect English.
Hospiten Bávaro:(Near the Airport/Vernon Shopping). A very established international network. High quality.
Centro Médico Punta Cana (CMC):(Downtown). Excellent specialists.
The Financial Warning (Crucial): Private hospitals here operate like businesses. Even if you have travel insurance, most clinics will ask for a Credit Card Deposit or a Passportbefore they admit you for treatment. They need to secure the payment while they verify your insurance. Do not be offended; this is standard procedure. Always carry a credit card with a decent limit($1,000+) just in case.
3. Pharmacies: The "WhatsApp" Hack
You don't always need a hospital. For a headache, sunburn, or the dreaded "traveler's tummy," a pharmacy is enough. Look for the two big reliable chains: Farmacia Carolor Farmacia Los Hidalgos.
The Prescription Reality: The Dominican Republic is much more relaxed than the US. Many medicines that require a strict prescription back home (like strong antibiotics, inhalers, or muscle relaxers) can often be bought Over-The-Counterhere after a quick chat with the pharmacist. If you forgot your meds at home, ask the pharmacist (El Farmacéutico) before you panic.
The "Delivery" Hack: Locals don't drive to the pharmacy. We text them. Almost every major pharmacy has a WhatsApp number. You text them your order and your location, and a guy on a motorcycle brings it to your hotel lobby for a $2 delivery fee. Ask your Concierge or Airbnb host for the local "Carol Delivery" number. It’s a lifesaver when you are too sick to move.
4. The Golden Rule: Travel Insurance
I cannot stress this enough. Private healthcare here is excellent, but it is expensive.
A simple consultation can be $100 - $150 USD.
A night in the hospital for observation? $1,500+ USD easily.
If you don't have insurance, you are paying that in cash (or maxing out your Visa) before they let you leave. Never travel here without insurance.It costs $30 for the week and can save you thousands.
Bonus Tip: The Sea Urchin (Erizo) Cure
If you step on a black spiky sea urchin (common in rocky areas), do not dig at it with a needle.The spines are brittle and will break off under your skin, causing infection.
Local Remedy:Soak your foot in Hot Water(as hot as you can stand) mixed with Vinegaror Lime Juice. The acid and heat help dissolve the calcium spines naturally. If it looks infected later, thengo to the doctor.
Stay safe, wash your hands, and stick to the bottled water!
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Written & Verified by
The Yatusabe Travel Team
We are a team of local explorers based in the Dominican Republic.
Some images are AI generated representations.