🇦🇼 Aruba Healthcare Guide
Dr Horacio E Oduber Hospital in Oranjestad is Aruba's only hospital, and while it handles most emergencies well, complex cases — particularly cardiac and neurological — are typically transferred to Colombia or the Netherlands. Pharmacies on the island are well-stocked for common medications, but if you take anything specialist or uncommon, bringing your full supply is the safer approach.
Quick facts
- Emergency number: 112
- Healthcare system: mixed
- Average GP visit: $25 USD
- EHIC/GHIC accepted: No
- Language barrier: medium
Healthcare overview
Dr. Horacio E. Oduber Hospital (HOH) in Oranjestad is Aruba’s only hospital, providing emergency and inpatient care. Private clinics handle routine GP consultations. For specialist treatment beyond the hospital’s capabilities, patients are transferred to Curaçao or Colombia. Care is competent for most non-complex needs, but the single-hospital setup means capacity can strain during peak tourist season.
Single hospital on the island
HOH in Oranjestad handles all hospital-level care. During high season (December through April), emergency department waits increase.
Vaccinations
Recommended
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
Prescriptions and pharmacies
Aruba’s pharmacies in Oranjestad and San Nicolas carry standard medications, with Dutch pharmaceutical standards as the baseline. Specialist medications may need to be ordered and can take several days to arrive. Carry your full medication supply, as restocking depends on imports from the Netherlands or regional hubs.
Dutch pharmaceutical standards
Aruba follows Dutch pharmaceutical regulations. Most EU prescriptions are recognised, though pharmacist verification may be required.
Tips for travellers
HOH covers general specialist care, but complex chronic conditions (oncology, advanced cardiology) are referred to Curaçao or Colombia. Having your treatment plan saved and accessible in Dutch, Papiamento, or English helps providers on the island assess your care quickly. If referral off-island is needed, complete documentation speeds the process significantly.
Curaçao referral pathway
Curaçao’s larger hospitals serve as the primary specialist referral hub for Aruba and Bonaire.