🇹🇹 Trinidad and Tobago Healthcare Guide
Port of Spain General Hospital and the private St Clair Medical Centre handle most emergencies on Trinidad, and the standard of care on the main island is among the better in the Caribbean. Tobago is a different story — the island's only hospital in Scarborough has limited specialist capabilities, and serious cases are transferred to Trinidad by air, so having your medical details saved and accessible is worth doing if you're spending time there.
Quick facts
- Emergency number: 811
- Healthcare system: mixed
- Average GP visit: $35 USD
- EHIC/GHIC accepted: No
- Language barrier: low
Healthcare overview
Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex in Mt Hope (Trinidad) is the country’s leading public hospital, with strong specialist departments. Private options include Medical Associates and St Clair Medical Centre in Port of Spain. Tobago has Scarborough General Hospital for basic care; complex cases transfer to Trinidad. Trinidad serves as a regional referral hub for several Eastern Caribbean islands.
Regional referral hub
Trinidad receives medical transfers from Grenada, St Vincent, Guyana, and other regional islands, giving its hospitals broader specialist experience.
Tobago transfers
Scarborough General Hospital on Tobago handles general care. Specialist needs require a short flight to Trinidad.
Vaccinations
Recommended
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
Prescriptions and pharmacies
Port of Spain and San Fernando have well-stocked pharmacies. Tobago has more limited options. Prices are moderate by Caribbean standards. Carry your full supply for Tobago visits, as the pharmacy range is narrower than on Trinidad.
Tobago pharmacy range
Tobago’s pharmacies stock basics but may lack specialist medications. Bring your full supply before crossing from Trinidad.
Tips for travellers
Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex provides comprehensive specialist care, making Trinidad the strongest medical centre in the Eastern Caribbean. For highly complex conditions, Miami is the next referral tier. Having your treatment history saved and accessible in English helps Trinidad’s specialists continue your care directly.
Eastern Caribbean specialist hub
Trinidad’s medical infrastructure is the strongest in the Eastern Caribbean, making it the primary referral destination for the region.