Emergency Numbers & Access
Limited ambulance service. TTM Hospital has an emergency department.
Response time: 15-45 minutes in Apia; longer in rural areas
Cost: Public hospital low-cost; private clinics $50-200 WST
Healthcare System
Samoa has basic but functional healthcare centred on Tupua Tamasese Meaole (TTM) Hospital in Apia, Upolu. Savai'i island has Malietoa Tanumafili II Hospital with limited services. Smaller health centres in villages for minor ailments. For anything serious, medical evacuation to New Zealand is required. Dengue and typhoid outbreaks occur periodically. Measles outbreaks have historically been severe.
Designed for: Residents. Tourists can access public hospital and small private clinics.
GP Access & Costs
Walk-in at public hospital outpatient; small private clinics in Apia
Typical wait: 1-3 hours at public hospital; same day private
Availability: Apia has adequate basic care; limited on Savai'i; minimal in villages
GP Visit
$30-80 NZD at private clinics
Private GP
$30-80 NZD
ER Without Insurance
$200-2,000 NZD
Medication
Limited pharmacy supply. Bring all personal medications.
Practical Tips
- TTM Hospital in Apia is the main facility — go here for emergencies
- Medical evacuation insurance essential — nearest advanced care is Auckland, NZ
- Bring all personal medications — pharmacy supply is limited
- Stay hydrated — tropical climate with high humidity
Who can get care in Samoa?
Emergency care for anyone
Emergency departments in Samoa treat everyone regardless of residency or insurance status. Charges can still apply afterwards.
Public system for visitors
Visitors get partial public cover — usually emergencies only, with routine care paid privately.
Seeing a Doctor as a visitor
Walk-in at public hospital outpatient; small private clinics in Apia Typical cost: $30-80 NZD at private clinics Typical wait: 1-3 hours at public hospital; same day private
Insurance needed for entry or visa
Not a formal entry requirement, but medical cover is strongly recommended. Emergency care without cover: $200-2,000 NZD.
Documents worth having ready
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation
- Passport
- Return ticket
Local contacts in Samoa
Emergency services
911 / 994 (fire) / 995 (ambulance)
Limited ambulance service. TTM Hospital has an emergency department.
Pharmacies
Pharmacy hours vary by city; larger towns usually have a late-night rota.
What is the emergency number in Samoa?
911 or 994 (fire) or 995 (ambulance) in Samoa. Limited ambulance service. TTM Hospital has an emergency department.
How much does a Doctor visit cost in Samoa?
$30-80 NZD at private clinics Private consultations: $30-80 NZD.
Join the waitlist to see 4 more FAQs
Sources: Samoa Ministry of Health, WHO Samoa, CDC Travelers' Health 2024
Last reviewed: March 2026 by ViscaCare