Health
What you need to know
As a migrant worker in the Cook Islands, there is access available to various public health services provided by Te Marae Ora, the Cook Islands Ministry of Health. There are some policies and requirements that are important to understand as an expatriate worker.
Health Service Users are divided up into categories, and in Category I it is further divided into levels of 1-7. Expatriate Workers who have resided and paid taxes in the Cook Islands for more than six months consecutively; spouse and children of expatriate workers who have resided for more than six months in the Cook Islands consecutively will fall under Category I. Note: the six months requirement, if workers, children, or spouses have not been in the Cook Islands for six months consecutively, then they fall under Category II.
You can find the schedule of fees here.
All public health users when registering for health services must show their passport. In addition, for expatriate workers, you must show proof of permanent employment with a valid work permit and RMD (Tax) number.
All fees must be paid at the time the services are provided.
Please Note: All alcohol related motor vehicle accidents – consultations and admissions will carry an additional charge regardless of Patient Category or Status and whether they live in Rarotonga or the Pa Enua (Outer Islands). If the Patient was not directly responsible for the motor vehicle crash then the recovery for costs becomes a civil case. A medical report will be provided to the patient to facilitate their claim. It is the patient’s responsibility to provide the evidence.
Information provided above is a small section taken from the Ministry of Health National Health Service Fee report. The full report can be found here, including information on other public health services.
There are also private doctors and dental practices on Rarotonga. These are very reasonably priced.
Please refer to: www.rarotongamedical.com and Holistic Medical: info@holisticmedical.co.ck Ph: +682 23860
For more non-Government options, please contact the Cook Islands Family Welfare Association (CIFWA) www.mycifwa.org
Helpful tips
aking care of your health is key to enjoying island life. Local clinics and a central hospital provide essential services, but for specialized treatments you may need to travel abroad.
Keep your health insurance up to date and schedule regular check-ups. Staying active, eating balanced meals, and familiarizing yourself with local emergency services will help ensure you thrive in the Cook Islands.