Moving your family to Bali comes with its own set of practical realities, none more important than healthcare. From the reality of a toddler with a sudden fever, ongoing allergies, or a motorbike accident on a rainy road, being prepared can make all the difference.
Based on the experience of helping hundreds of expat families settle into Bali, we’re here to help you avoid the most common (and costly) healthcare misconceptions.
Bali’s healthcare system offers both reassurance and surprises. On one hand, you’ll find modern international hospitals like Bali International Hospital and Siloam, offering English-speaking staff and great professional care. On the other hand, you’ll encounter gaps in public clinics, inconsistent diagnoses, and limited access to specialists outside urban centres.
Common Family Health Risks in Bali:
- Respiratory conditions from pollution or the burning season.
- Tropical illnesses like dengue, typhoid, or foodborne parasites.
- Motorbike injuries, especially in traffic-heavy areas.
- Ear infections and fevers, common in young children adjusting to the tropics.
Yes, dengue exists, but it’s manageable. With cases reported year-round, it is especially higher during the rainy season. Those aged 6 to 45 years may also consider the dengue vaccination, which is available in Indonesia (at a very reasonable cost). But it’s just one part of the health puzzle for families in Bali.
Insurance Mistakes to Avoid
One of the biggest misunderstandings we see from new arrivals? Assuming travel insurance is enough.
It most cases it isn’t, especially for families staying longer than a few months and on especially on a 12-month Kitas visa.
Travel insurance policies are made for a certain time period and cant be renewed and are limited.
Many policies from Australia, Europe, or the US exclude:
- Treatment for tropical illnesses (seen as “preventable”).
- Chronic conditions like asthma or eczema.
- Emergency evacuation or repatriation, which can cost up to USD 30,000.
What families need instead:
- Global expat insurance plans who offer broader coverage and family-specific options.
- Direct billing agreements with major hospitals (so you don’t have to pay upfront).
- Access to Singapore hospitals in case of serious emergencies.
From Our Year in Bali’s resources, many families also learn to ask the right questions before buying a policy, like whether outpatient visits are included or if your plan covers newborn care. We have the perfect insurance companies in Bali who only insure expats working and living in Bali and have great relationships with the hospitals and easy claim systems.
Padma x Our Year in Bali Partnership
Padma Care helps expat families access high-quality healthcare at local rates. For 350,000 IDR (~$24 USD) per month per household, you get:
✔️ Daily access (7 days a week) to a Personal Healthcare Assistant and support team
✔️ Your dedicated Personal Health Advisor who knows your family
✔️ Expert doctor recommendations (vetted network of 108 specialists)
✔️ Negotiated local pricing at 7 hospitals and 11 clinics
✔️ Bills and treatments are carefully vetted so you don’t overpay or get unnecessary services
✔️ Guidance on navigating clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies with ease
✔️ Peace of mind knowing you’ll always have the right help at the right time
Most members recoup the annual membership cost on their first significant medical visit through negotiated savings alone. Even better: Padma Care can help you structure a smart insurance strategy—pairing a high-deductible international plan with affordable local care—that saves families $1,000s annually compared to traditional expat insurance.
Our Year in Bali Special Offer: Receive one month free when you Sign up! It only takes 10 minutes to register, and you can choose your start date.
Have questions? Schedule a free 30-minute consultation to discuss your family’s specific situation.
Smart Habits that Keep Families Healthy
Healthcare in Bali works best when you stay one step ahead. Here’s what some of the experienced expats recommend:
- Vaccinate early. Not just for COVID-19, but also Dengue, Japanese Encephalitis, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Rabies, Diphtheria-Tetanus, and MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella), and Chicken Pox/Shingles.
Our Year in Bali can help you arrange certain vaccinations upon arrival, as some—like the Dengue vaccine—are often significantly more affordable when administered in Bali.
- Travel with a family medical kit. Bring children’s paracetamol, antihistamines, and your preferred brands, as they may not be widely available or a different strength to what you are used to.
- Use telehealth for non-urgent care. Apps like Alodokter or Halodoc connect you with Indonesian doctors from the comfort of your villa.
- Be cautious with medications. Local pharmacies may sell prescription drugs over the counter, but always check expiry dates and dosages (shelf life in the tropics is less than ideal that other places).
- Medical Concierge Membership: Sign up for our recommended medical concierge advocate service to navigate the Bali Medical system. They provide 7 days a week medical support, can arrange appointments, source specialists, hospital support, and so much more
Quick FAQs
Q: Can I use my Australian/European health insurance in Bali?
A: Not reliably. Most plans exclude tropical illnesses and require upfront payment. Check with our local Insurance agents to see what options you can receive for Indonesia and beyond.
Q: Is Bali’s tap water safe to drink?
A: No. Always use bottled water, even for brushing teeth. Tap water can lead to gastrointestinal issues (aka the infamous “Bali Belly”).
Q: Is Bali safe for babies and toddlers medically?
A: Yes, with planning. Having access to paediatric care, health insurance, parent communities, and trusted advice makes a big difference.
Q. What should I do in the case of an emergency in Bali?
A: It depends on the severity of the incident. For most injuries—including motorbike crashes and broken bones—a local clinic is usually sufficient. For more serious conditions, larger hospitals in Bali have Emergency Departments. The only Level 1 trauma center on the island, with operating rooms available directly from the ER, is Prof. Dr. IGNG Ngoerah Hospital (formerly Sanglah Hospital).
Q: What’s the best hospital for children?
A: BIMC in Kuta has English-speaking pediatricians. Siloam in Denpasar is well equipped, though often busier. Sanur International Hospital is another reliable option, especially for those living on the east side of the island. Depending on the condition, some paediatric specialists also rotate between clinics, so availability may vary.
At Our Year in Bali, we also connect families with trusted local clinics and doctors who offer home visits—perfect for everyday care.
Q: Can I find English-speaking doctors and specialists in Bali?
A: Yes, especially in international hospitals like BIMC, Siloam, and Kasih Ibu. Many doctors are trained abroad and speak English well. However, outside of these hospitals or in more rural areas, English fluency can vary, so it’s smart to use medical advocate services or telehealth apps like Alodokter to avoid miscommunication.
Living in Bali with kids can be deeply enriching, but things like ear infections, tummy bugs, or unexpected accidents are part of life, no matter where you are. The key difference is how prepared you are when they happen. By choosing the right insurance, knowing where to go, and being proactive with family health, you’ll have the confidence to enjoy island life without unnecessary stress.
Need Help Navigating Healthcare in Bali?
Book a personalised consultation with Our Year in Bali. From insurance options to finding the right pediatrician, we’ll help you move with confidence.
