The islands of Kiribati are known for their white-sand beaches, great scuba diving, and seabird wildlife. Fishing is a popular attraction in Kiribati, as the only place in the world where visitors can saltwater fly fish.
The standards for patient care and medical services in Kiribati may differ from your home country. Kiribati has a publicly-funded and provided healthcare system including four hospitals and a network of healthcare clinics and centres of varying capacity. The quality of care generally does not meet international standards. Healthcare clinics and centres in rural outer islands provide basic medical care and refer patients to hospitals on major islands for more extensive treatment.
In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals and private practitioners in Kiribati typically require upfront payment, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Evacuation to the United States may be required for complex medical emergencies. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance, including evacuation. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Kiribati.
Prescription medicines in Kiribati must be purchased within a hospital or healthcare centre - there are no retail pharmacies on the islands. Prescriptions for medicines must be obtained from a local doctor.
If you are travelling with medication, check with Kiribati’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.
Roads in urban areas are generally paved and maintained to an adequate standard but road quality varies by region and may be poor on outer islands. Many roads are prone to flooding after heavy rains. Drivers and passengers in vehicles must wear a seat belt at all times. In Kiribati, traffic drives on the left.