Many travelers are surprised to learn that while Harbour Island is a top-tier destination for relaxation and beauty, it lacks several key healthcare resources. Understanding what’s missing can help visitors plan ahead and avoid complications during their stay. The island is known for its charm and close-knit community, but when it comes to advanced healthcare, the Medical Services Harbour Island offers are extremely limited.
Most notably, there is no hospital on Harbour Island meaning no emergency room, inpatient services, or surgical facilities. If someone experiences a serious accident, requires emergency surgery, or suffers a major health event like a stroke or heart attack, they will need to be airlifted to Nassau or transported by boat and ambulance to mainland Eleuthera. There are a few outpatient clinics on the island, including one private and two public options, but all are designed for minor ailments and general check-ups. They cannot accommodate overnight stays, complex procedures, or critical trauma cases. This underscores a key fact: the Medical Services Harbour Island cannot replace a hospital.
In addition, the island does not offer advanced diagnostic tools. There are no CT scanners, MRI machines, or even routine X-ray capabilities. If blood tests are required, they are limited in scope and often involve sending samples off-island. Patients needing imaging, specialist consults, or lab work will face significant delays unless they travel. These gaps, often not emphasized in tourist brochures, are among the lesser-known but important Harbour Island Facts for anyone planning an extended visit or traveling with preexisting medical conditions.
Also missing from the island is a full-service pharmacy. While clinics may stock basic medications, it’s essential for visitors to bring their full supply of prescription drugs. Emergency prescriptions may be filled by contacting off-island providers, but fulfillment is not guaranteed. Knowing these limitations is one of the most critical Harbour Island Facts for families with children, seniors, or those with chronic health issues.
Being informed doesn’t mean avoiding Harbour Island it means arriving prepared. Visitors should have comprehensive insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage, pack all essential medications, and know where to find the clinics in Dunmore Town in case of minor medical needs. In case of more serious concerns, having the appropriate knowledge of emergency procedures and contacts is critical.
