Last updated: 6 Oct 2025 · General information only.
If you’re moving to Bali to work remotely, know where to find reliable medical care and how to prepare. This page helps to locate hospitals and clinics, estimate costs, handle paperwork and avoid common mistakes.
Step-by-step plan
- Buy travel / expat health insurance before you leave. Confirm emergency evacuation and repatriation cover for extended stays.
- Save contact info for local emergency services and the nearest international/private hospital where you’ll base yourself (south Bali and Denpasar cover many expats).
- Register with a local clinic (klinik or dokter umum) after arrival for routine care and prescriptions.
- Keep digital copies of important documents (passport, visa, insurance policy, prescriptions) and a printed folder for clinics/hospitals.
- Set up a local WhatsApp contact for your clinic or telemedicine service to get fast advice for minor issues.
- Understand costs and keep a buffer. For serious conditions, ask your insurer to authorise hospital admission first.
- Update vaccinations and carry immunisation records; discuss routine care with your GP or travel clinic before departure.
Documents & requirements (checklist)
- Passport (with current visa) — many facilities will copy this on admission.
- Travel or international health insurance policy & emergency contact numbers; policy number and details of evacuation coverage.
- Local ID for longer stays (KITAS/KITAP) if you have one — some hospitals record this for billing and BPJS registration.
- Prescriptions and medication list (generic names preferred). Carry originals and an electronic copy.
- Vaccination record (COVID, tetanus, etc.) and any specialist reports you may need (cardiac, diabetes).
- Driver’s licence if you plan to use ambulance or emergency transport — confirm locally.
- Consent forms/medical power of attorney if you need someone to act on your behalf — recommended for longer stays.
- Note: requirements vary by facility and over time — confirm locally with the clinic or hospital.
Where to go: quick guide
Emergency (life-threatening)
- Go to the nearest hospital with an emergency department immediately — call local emergency numbers if needed.
- Private international hospitals in Denpasar and south Bali generally have faster triage and better English support; public hospitals (RSUD) serve larger local populations.
Non-emergency & routine care
- Use local clinics (klinik/dokter umum) for colds, minor injuries, prescription renewals and basic tests.
- Book specialists via private hospitals or clinics for pregnancy care, dental work, cardiology, etc.
Costs & budget notes
Prices are approximate, in USD or equivalent. Confirm current fees with clinics or your insurer.
| Service | Typical cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GP / clinic consultation | $10–$30 | Lower at community clinics; private clinics higher. |
| Specialist consultation | $25–$80 | Depends on speciality and facility. |
| Emergency room visit (non-admitted) | $50–$300+ | Higher for imaging and procedures. |
| Private hospital admission (per night) | $150–$700+ | Varies with room type and treatment. |
| Ambulance (land) | $25–$150 | Air ambulance is far more expensive and typically needs insurer pre-authorisation. |
| Common prescription (antibiotics) | $3–$20 | Prices vary; branded medications cost more. |
| Telemedicine consultation | $5–$40 | Useful for routine issues; some insurers cover this. |
Budget tip: bring an emergency fund equal to at least one private hospital night plus diagnostics if you don’t have immediate insurer guarantees.
Common pitfalls & how to avoid them
- Assuming public hospitals are free; public care may be low-cost but can have longer wait times and variable English support. Confirm costs before treatment.
- Not checking insurance exclusions; verify pre-existing condition rules, maternity limits and evacuation cover before travel.
- Leaving prescriptions at home; travel with prescriptions and a medication list including generic names.
- Failing to authorise insurer payments; for planned admissions, get pre-authorisation to avoid large upfront bills.
- Relying only on online reviews; contact clinics directly to check services, language support and opening hours.
- Ignoring follow-up care; keep records and make follow-up appointments; pharmacies and clinics can differ in supply of specific drugs.
- Not having local contacts; add WhatsApp numbers for your clinic, insurer and a local friend who can translate or assist.
FAQs
Do I need international health insurance to go to Bali?
You don’t legally need insurance to enter Bali, but we strongly recommend comprehensive travel or expat health insurance that covers emergency evacuation and repatriation. Confirm policy limits and exclusions with your insurer.
How good is emergency care in Bali?
Emergency care is widely available in larger towns. Private international hospitals in Denpasar and the south have better facilities and English-speaking staff. For serious conditions, call your insurer for evacuation options and recommended hospitals.
Can I buy prescription medicines locally?
Yes, most common medicines are available from pharmacies (apotek). Bring prescriptions, especially for controlled medicines, and check generic names. Some drugs may require a doctor’s paper prescription for purchase.
Should I use telemedicine services?
Telemedicine is a useful first step for minor illnesses and prescription renewals. Many providers operate in English and can advise whether you need in-person care.
What should I do in a medical emergency?
Call local emergency services or go to the nearest hospital emergency department. If you have international insurance, call the insurer’s emergency line as soon as possible for advice and authorisation where needed.
Need personalised help planning healthcare for your stay? See our Bali Healthcare guide.