Healthcare in Cuba: Travel Insurance, Medication and Emergency Preparation

Healthcare planning is an important part of preparing for a trip to Cuba. Travellers should arrange appropriate insurance, carry enough medication, save essential documents offline and understand that access to supplies and services can vary by location.

Travel insurance and proof of coverage

Carry proof of medical insurance that is valid for Cuba, along with the insurer’s emergency telephone number and policy details. Keep both digital and printed copies because Internet access may be limited when you need them.

Bring enough prescription medication

Pack enough medication for the full trip, plus a reasonable reserve for delays. Keep medicine in its original labelled packaging and carry a copy of the prescription or a medical note when appropriate. Essential medication should remain in hand luggage rather than checked baggage.

Prepare a compact health kit

• regular prescription medication;
• basic first-aid supplies;
• sun protection and insect repellent;
• oral rehydration supplies;
• copies of prescriptions, insurance details and emergency contacts.

Hotels, clinics and emergency assistance

Ask the hotel reception, tour representative or accommodation host how to reach the nearest appropriate clinic. Service availability, transportation and supplies can differ between resorts, cities and rural areas. For a serious emergency, contact the insurer as soon as possible and keep all receipts and medical documents.

Power outages and communication

Electricity or telecommunications interruptions may affect refrigeration, charging, card payments and communication. Travellers who depend on temperature-sensitive medication or powered medical equipment should discuss contingency planning with a qualified healthcare professional before departure.

Before departure checklist

• confirm insurance coverage for Cuba;
• pack medication and documents in hand luggage;
• save the insurer, airline and accommodation contacts offline;
• tell a travel companion about important medical needs;
• review the Cuba entry requirements guide;
• prepare for power outages in Cuba;
• review the guide to travelling with a CPAP or medical device;
• review Internet and offline communication options.

Related health and emergency guides

• Medical care at Cuba resorts: clinics, doctors and pharmacies
• Pharmacies in Cuba and health-kit planning
• Travelling to Cuba with prescription medication
• Keeping medication cold at Cuba resorts
• Emergency help in Cuba for Canadian travellers
• Cuba travel insurance claims and required proof
• Cuba travel for seniors

Important reminder

This guide provides general travel-preparation information and does not replace medical advice. Travellers with significant health conditions should consult a qualified healthcare professional and their insurer before travelling.

Return to the Cuba Travel Guide in English