Health Care

Barbados is known as having the most modern facilities in the Eastern Caribbean.

The early tourist that came to Barbados was attracted here because of clean air, sunshine and for its healing qualities. They also seek for spiritual and for those seeking for alternative herbal medicine to traditional medicine from their own country where they originated.

Hospitals and Medical Clinics

Medical services are provided by two major hospitals. The main Government hospital - the Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) - has 600 beds and offers variety of specialist services along with 24 hour casualty service. Further to this, there are also:

8 government Polyclinics providing free medical treatment for minor ailments,
5 Geriatric hospitals for care of the elderly, and
Child Care facilities.

The second major hospital, Bayview is a private health care facility. That also provides a variety of medical care.

Prescriptions

Visitors prescriptions may be filled at local pharmacies and over the counter medicine can be purchased. However visitors should consult with a local physician first. Major hotels have doctor on call, persons can check with the receptionist or concierge for further assistance. A list of pharmacies and medical practitioners may be found in the Yellow Pages of the Barbados Telephone Directory.

Drinking Water

A Government statutory corporation - Barbados Water Authority is the main provider of water services. The water supply is safe and can be drunk straight from the tap.

Emergency Telephone Numbers

Fire: 311
Police: 211 or (246) 430-7100
QEH Ambulance Services: 511 or 4260016

Directory of Hospitals & Clinics