For decades, the narrative around healthcare in the Pacific Islands was one of isolation. But in 2026, Hospitals in Palau are telling a different story. With the recent installation of advanced MRI and CT scanners at the Belau National Hospital (BNH)—donated through Japanese aid—and a groundbreaking 2025 partnership opening medical referral pathways to specialized hospitals in India, the safety net for locals and visitors has never been stronger.
However, let’s be realistic: Palau is not a medical tourism hub for elective surgery. It is a world-class diving destination where the difference between a minor scrape and a medical evacuation can be $50,000. For the 100,000+ tourists visiting the Rock Islands annually, knowing exactly where the hyperbaric chamber is, which private clinic stays open late, and how to pay for treatment is a matter of critical safety.
This guide provides an honest, on-the-ground look at the healthcare system in Koror and beyond. We will compare the public vs. private options, explain the “Referral Committee” system, and give you the actionable tips you need to explore this pristine paradise with peace of mind.
The Healthcare Ecosystem: Public Hub vs. Private Clinics
Palau’s healthcare system is small but centralized. Understanding the split between the government hospital and private providers is key.
1. The National Giant: Belau National Hospital (BNH)
Located in Meyuns (connected to Koror by a causeway), this is the only full-service hospital in the country.
- The Reality: It handles everything serious. From car accidents to diving decompression sickness, all roads lead here.
- The Upgrade: As of 2026, it features a fully operational Hyperbaric Chamber (essential for divers) and newly upgraded hemodialysis and radiology units.
- The Connection: BNH serves as a triage point. If they can’t treat you, they stabilize you for evacuation to the Philippines, Taiwan, or Hawaii.
2. The Private Clinics
For non-emergencies (ear infections, coral cuts, flu), private clinics in Koror are faster and more comfortable.
- The Reality: These are outpatient facilities. They do not have ICUs or major surgical theaters.
- The Cost: Expect to pay upfront. A consultation can range from $50 to $150 USD depending on the complexity.
- Best For: Tourists, expats, and quick prescriptions.
3. Community Health Centers (CHCs)
A network of 10 clinics scattered across Babeldaob and the outer islands (like Peleliu).
- The Reality: These are for basic primary care and stabilization. They have limited hours and equipment.
Top Hospitals & Clinics in Palau: A Deep Dive
We have analyzed the facilities to bring you the most reliable options for 2026.
1. Belau National Hospital (BNH) – Meyuns, Koror
The backbone of Palauan healthcare.
- Best For: Emergency Trauma, Diving Accidents (Decompression), and Inpatient Care.
- Why it stands out: It houses the country’s only Hyperbaric Chamber, staffed by team members trained specifically for dive medicine. It also has a formal partnership with Shin Kong Hospital in Taiwan, meaning specialists (orthopedists, cardiologists) fly in regularly to perform surgeries that were previously impossible locally.
2. Belau Medical Clinic (BMC) – Koror
The largest and most established private clinic, founded by Dr. Victor Yano.
- Best For: General Family Practice, Lab Tests, and minor urgent care.
- Why it stands out: It is a favorite among expats and tourists for its efficiency. They have an in-house pharmacy and laboratory, meaning you can see a doctor, get a blood test, and pick up antibiotics in one visit.
3. Family Surgical Clinic – Koror
Run by Dr. Emais Roberts (a surgeon and former Minister of Health).
- Best For: Minor surgeries, wound care, and general consultations.
- Why it stands out: Dr. Roberts is US-trained (Hawaii), ensuring a standard of care and communication style that many American tourists find reassuring.
4. Palau Adventist Wellness Center – Koror
A faith-based clinic focused on holistic and dental care.
- Best For: Dentistry, Optometry, and Physical Therapy.
- Why it stands out: If you break a tooth or lose your glasses while vacationing, this is your best option. They also offer wellness programs and vegetarian dietary counseling.
📊 Comparison: Top Medical Facilities in Palau
Use this table to find the right facility for your specific needs.
| Facility Name | Location | Type | Key Strength | Best For |
| Belau National Hospital | Meyuns | Public Hospital | Hyperbaric Chamber | Diving Accidents, Major Trauma |
| Belau Medical Clinic | Koror | Private Clinic | In-house Pharmacy | Flu, Ear Infections, Lab Tests |
| Family Surgical Clinic | Koror | Private Clinic | Minor Surgery | Cuts, Stitches, Consultations |
| Palau Adventist Wellness | Koror | Private/NGO | Dental & Optical | Toothaches, Eye Care, Wellness |
| Pacific Family Medical | Koror | Private Clinic | Family Medicine | General Checkups |
| Airai CHC | Airai | Public Clinic | Proximity to Airport | Basic Stabilization |
| Peleliu CHC | Peleliu | Public Clinic | Remote Access | Basic Care on Peleliu Island |
| Western CHC | Ngaremlengui | Public Clinic | Rural Access | Local Primary Care |
| Surangel’s Clinic | Koror | Private | Employee/General | Basic Consultations |
| Emergency Room (BNH) | Meyuns | Public ER | 24/7 Access | Life-Threatening Issues |
💡 Real Success Story: The Diver’s Safety Net
Palau is famous for its “Blue Corner” dive, but currents can be tricky.
Case Study: The Decompression Scare
The Challenge: Sarah, an experienced diver from Australia, surfaced too quickly after a deep dive at the German Channel. She began feeling numbness in her arm and dizziness—classic signs of “The Bends” (DCS).
The Solution: Her dive master immediately radioed the Belau National Hospital.
The Protocol: Sarah was transported via boat to the dock in Koror, where an ambulance was waiting. She was rushed to the Hyperbaric Chamber at BNH.
The Outcome: Because the chamber was fully staffed and operational (thanks to recent training missions), she underwent recompression therapy immediately.
The Result: She made a full recovery. Her travel insurance covered the $15,000+ cost of the chamber treatment and hospitalization.
“I thought being on a remote island meant no advanced care. I was wrong. The team at the chamber knew exactly what they were doing. They saved my ability to walk.” — Sarah J., Brisbane
👉 Planning a dive trip? Ask locals about insurance and chamber status here: https://www.myhospitalnow.com/forum/
Medical Tourism & Wellness: The “Pristine” Approach
While you won’t come to Palau for a hip replacement, the country is carving a niche in Wellness Tourism.
- Visiting Specialists: Through the “Medical Referral Program,” specialists from Taiwan (Shin Kong Hospital) and USA (Shriners/Canvasback Missions) visit BNH regularly. Residents often wait for these “mission weeks” for complex procedures like cataract surgery or orthopedic corrections.
- Spa & Recovery: Luxury resorts like the Palau Pacific Resort and Four Seasons Explorer offer high-end wellness treatments using local ingredients (like milky mud from the Rock Islands), attracting travelers seeking detoxification and mental health breaks.
For professionals tracking these trends, verify the visiting specialist schedule here:
👉 Hospitals in Palau (https://www.myhospitalnow.com/blog/category/hospitals-in-palau)
Essential Tips for Patients & Tourists
Healthcare in Palau requires preparation. Follow these “Island Rules” to ensure safety.
1. Cash is King (Upfront Payment)
Foreigners are not covered by the Palauan National Health Insurance (NHI).
- Rule: You will likely be asked to pay cash or credit card before or immediately after treatment at private clinics. BNH may bill you, but payment is expected.
- Cost: Emergency room visits can start at $200+ for non-residents, excluding tests.
2. Evacuation Insurance is Mandatory
This is non-negotiable. If you have a stroke, heart attack, or severe head trauma, BNH will stabilize you, but you will need to be flown to Manila (Philippines) or Taipei (Taiwan).
- Cost: A private air ambulance can cost $30,000 to $100,000. Ensure your policy covers “Medical Repatriation.”
3. The 911 System
- Emergency: Dial 911 for Police, Fire, or Ambulance.
- Note: Ambulance response times can vary depending on traffic and location. In a resort, it is often faster to use the resort’s transport to get to the hospital if the patient is stable enough.
4. Pharmacy Limitations
- Availability: Basic antibiotics, painkillers, and tropical medicines are available. Specialized chronic medication may not be.
- Tip: Bring a full supply of your daily prescription medications, plus a spare week’s worth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is healthcare free in Palau for tourists?
No. Tourists must pay for all services out-of-pocket. There is no free healthcare for non-citizens.
2. Is there a doctor on the outer islands (like Peleliu)?
Usually, no. There are nurses at the Community Health Centers (CHCs). A doctor visits periodically. For serious issues, you must travel to Koror.
3. Can I get dialysis in Palau?
Yes. Belau National Hospital has a hemodialysis unit. However, visitors must arrange this weeks in advance to ensure a chair is available.
4. What is the standard of care?
“Adequate for routine care.” The doctors are highly capable, many trained in Fiji, Taiwan, or the US. However, equipment and specialist availability can be limited compared to Western nations.
5. Do I need a visa for medical treatment?
Palau grants a visa on arrival for most tourists (30 days). If you are staying longer for treatment (rare), you would need to extend it at Immigration.
6. Is the water safe to drink in the hospital?
Stick to bottled water. While improvements have been made, travelers should generally avoid tap water to prevent stomach bugs.
7. Are there dentists in Palau?
Yes. Palau Adventist Wellness Center and Belau National Hospital both have dental clinics capable of extractions, fillings, and basic emergency work.
8. What if I get “The Bends” (Decompression Sickness)?
Go immediately to Belau National Hospital. Do not fly. They have a functional hyperbaric chamber.
9. Are there US Military doctors in Palau?
Periodically. The Civic Action Team (CAT) often has a medical officer, but they generally treat local populations or assist BNH. They are not a walk-in clinic for tourists.
10. Where can I find a list of private doctors?
You can view our verified list of clinics here: https://www.myhospitalnow.com/blog/category/hospitals-in-palau
Conclusion: Paradise with a Plan
Palau offers an unmatched natural experience, and its healthcare system is punching above its weight thanks to international support. Whether you are relying on the expertise at Belau National Hospital or a quick check-up at Belau Medical Clinic, help is available.