Saint Vincent & the Grenadines

Saint Vincent & the Grenadines: Travel Health Information

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is known for its picturesque white sand beaches. Travellers can explore caves and waterfalls, and enjoy popular water activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and sailing.

Healthcare

The standards for patient care and medical services in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines may differ from your home country. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines has a public healthcare system and private options. There are six public hospitals and three privately owned hospitals as well as local medical centres operating throughout the islands. The quality of care is generally considered to fall below international standards and facilities. There is no hyperbaric chamber for diving injuries – the closest one is in Barbados and will require medical evacuation.

In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals and private practitioners in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines typically require upfront payment, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Evacuation – to the United States or a neighbouring island – will be required for medical emergencies. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance. Coverage for medical evacuation is a high priority. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Pharmacies and medications

Access to pharmacies in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines can be limited and medications may be temporarily unavailable or in short supply. Ensure you pack a sufficient supply of essential medication for the duration of your trip.

If you are travelling with medication, check with Saint Vincent and the Grenadine’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 Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.

Road safety

Roads in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are often poorly maintained, unpaved, and narrow. Drivers and front-seat passengers of vehicles must wear a seat belt at all times, but all passengers should wear one for safety. Motorcycle drivers and passengers must wear helmets. In Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, traffic drives on the left.

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