Brunei Darussalam boasts a well-developed healthcare system, overseen by the Ministry of Health (MoH), which is recognized as one of the best in Asia and globally. The system is a 'mixed system,' combining elements of both public and private healthcare provision. Historically, public medical care was free for locals and highly subsidized for expats. However, significant policy changes implemented in July 2025 and January 2026 have altered access and cost structures for foreign nationals. The MoH manages four government hospitals and approximately 60 health centers and clinics nationwide. A key initiative is the 'one-patient, one-record' system, Bru-HIMS (Brunei Healthcare Information Management System), which allows patient health records to be accessible across facilities, improving continuity of care. Expats can generally expect modern facilities and English-speaking medical professionals, minimizing communication barriers.

Brunei's public healthcare system is primarily funded by the government. For Bruneian citizens and stateless permanent residents (holding Yellow and Purple ICs), healthcare remains free or highly subsidized, with a nominal registration fee of BND1 for hospital visits. However, a major policy shift effective July 1, 2025, ended free healthcare for foreign permanent residents (Purple IC holders with foreign nationalities) and foreign spouses of Bruneian citizens, requiring them to bear the full cost of treatment. Other foreign nationals, including those on employment, dependent, and student passes, also pay for public healthcare services at affordable rates, though these are no longer free.

The main public hospital is the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital in Bandar Seri Begawan, which serves as the national referral center and offers comprehensive medical services across all major specialties. Public health centers provide primary and preventive care. While the quality of care in public hospitals is generally high, waiting times for non-urgent specialist appointments or elective procedures can occur. To access public healthcare, foreigners need to register for the Brunei Healthcare Information Management System (BruHIMS) by presenting their Brunei-issued Smart Identity Card (IC) or passport (for foreign workers) at any hospital or health center.

Private healthcare in Brunei offers an alternative with typically shorter waiting times and a wider choice of specialists. Most private hospitals and clinics are concentrated in key urban areas, particularly Bandar Seri Begawan. The quality of private care is generally considered very high, with state-of-the-art facilities and internationally trained medical professionals.

Prominent private medical facilities include:

• Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC): Brunei's premier private hospital, offering tertiary care services and accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI). It is known for specialties like cardiac surgery, neurosurgery, and orthopedics.
• Gleneagles JPMC: A world-class tertiary cardiac center, a joint venture between IHH Healthcare Berhad and the Brunei government, specializing in cardiology.
• The Brunei Medical Centre (BMC): Another top private facility focusing on patient care and comfort, with services in orthopedic surgery, neurology, and emergency care.
• Pantai Jerudong Specialist Centre (PJSC): While operating under the Ministry of Health, PJSC provides specialized, premium services, particularly in cancer and stroke treatment, offering both subsidized care for citizens and premium services for private patients.

Typical consultation costs at private clinics are higher than public rates. While specific figures for consultations and procedures are not readily available, expats with comprehensive health insurance can seek treatment at these facilities.

Access to healthcare for foreigners and expats in Brunei has undergone significant changes. As of July 1, 2025, foreign permanent residents and foreign spouses of Bruneian citizens are no longer eligible for free public healthcare and must pay the full cost of treatment.

Furthermore, a new mandate requires all foreign citizens to have a minimum level of private health insurance coverage. This mandate is being implemented in phases:

• Since July 1, 2025: Professional visit pass, business visit pass, permanent resident permit (for contributors to the economy), visitor pass, and domestic services employment pass holders require minimum coverage ranging from BND 10,000 to BND 100,000.
• Starting January 1, 2026: This expanded to include employment pass holders for the private sector (BND 100,000 minimum coverage), dependent pass holders (spouse and non-schooling children, BND 10,000 minimum coverage), and student pass holders (BND 5,000 minimum coverage).

Proof of valid insurance is required for entry or continued stay, with failure to provide it potentially limiting entry passes or permits to two weeks. While emergency care will not be turned away, patients will be required to pay a portion of treatment fees upfront, which can then be reimbursed by their insurance provider. There are no reciprocal health agreements with other countries that entitle foreign nationals to reduced-cost treatment. All foreigners, regardless of their status, are encouraged to register for the BruHIMS system.

Securing appropriate health insurance is now a critical requirement for most foreigners and expats in Brunei. The new mandate, effective from July 2025 and January 2026, necessitates a minimum level of private health insurance coverage depending on the type of pass.

Key insurance options include:

• Mandatory Private Plans: These are now compulsory for various foreign pass holders, with minimum coverage amounts specified (e.g., BND 100,000 for private sector employment passes, BND 10,000 for dependent passes, BND 5,000 for student passes). Employers are legally responsible for providing this coverage for their foreign workers and cannot deduct premiums from salaries.
• Employer-Provided Plans: Many employers in Brunei already provide supplemental health benefits, primarily private medical insurance, to cover their employees and dependents for hospitalization and surgery. Employers must ensure their existing plans meet the new minimum coverage requirements.
• International Health Insurance: For expats, digital nomads, or global citizens, comprehensive international health insurance is highly recommended. Providers like Cigna Global and Allianz International offer plans valid in Brunei's public and private facilities, often including critical benefits like medical evacuation. These plans are particularly useful for those planning to move again or for initial periods in Brunei.
• Local Private Insurance: Local insurers and Takaful operators (e.g., Takaful Brunei) are expanding medical coverage options, including for individuals up to 95 years old, though pre-existing conditions may incur higher premiums.

It's important to note that the mandatory insurance typically covers hospitalization and surgery (inpatient care) and may not include outpatient clinic visits. Foreign insurance is accepted if it specifically mentions 'Brunei Darussalam' and meets the required coverage limits.

Healthcare costs for foreigners in Brunei have significantly changed due to recent policy reforms. While Bruneian citizens and stateless permanent residents continue to receive free or highly subsidized care (BND1 registration fee), foreign permanent residents and foreign spouses of citizens now face the full cost of medical treatment at government hospitals and specialized centers.

For other foreign nationals, public hospital consultation fees are generally affordable, but specific out-of-pocket costs will depend on the services rendered and the individual's insurance coverage. For example, ward charges in public hospitals for foreign permanent residents and others can range from BND20 to BND175 per day, excluding investigation and treatment fees.

With the new mandatory private health insurance, patients may be required to pay a portion of their treatment fees upfront (starting from 10%), which can then be reimbursed by their insurance provider.

In the private sector, costs are considerably higher than in public facilities. While specific figures for GP visits, specialist consultations, or hospital stays are not publicly detailed, these services are typically covered by comprehensive private or international health insurance plans. Dental and vision care coverage varies widely, and expats should check their insurance policies carefully, potentially considering supplemental dental insurance. It is crucial for expats to understand their insurance policy's coverage limits and co-payments to avoid unexpected financial burdens.

Brunei has a well-organized emergency services system with dedicated numbers for different types of emergencies.

• Ambulance: Dial 991 for the Emergency Medical Ambulance Service (EMAS) in case of medical emergencies, serious injuries, sudden illness, or any life-threatening condition. Paramedics are trained to provide on-site assistance and transport patients to the nearest hospital.
• Police: Dial 993 for the Royal Brunei Police Force.
• Fire & Rescue: Dial 995 for fire-related incidents and rescue operations.
• Search & Rescue: Dial 998 for search and rescue services.

In a medical emergency, it is essential to stay calm, know your exact location, and describe the situation clearly. While English is widely spoken by medical professionals, be prepared for potential language barriers with dispatchers, who are likely to speak Malay.

Emergency medical treatment at public hospitals is available to all, and individuals needing immediate attention will not be turned away or required to pay upfront. However, emergency treatment is not free for foreigners, and costs will apply. Comprehensive travel or international health insurance is strongly recommended to cover these expenses.

Brunei's healthcare system is highly regarded, with a healthcare quality index of 88/100, indicating excellent quality of care by international standards. It is often cited as one of the best in Asia and globally.

Strengths of the system include:

• Modern Facilities and Technology: Hospitals like RIPAS and private centers such as JPMC are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced imaging services, cardiac catheterization labs, and specialized intensive care units. JPMC is also the first hospital in Brunei to be accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI).
• Skilled Professionals: The Ministry of Health actively invests in training and development, sending local doctors abroad for specialized guidance. Most doctors, nurses, and pharmacists are proficient in English.
• Integrated Patient Records: The Bru-HIMS 'one-patient, one-record' system enhances continuity and accessibility of patient information across the healthcare network.
• Accessibility: With at least one hospital in each district and numerous health centers, medical assistance is generally accessible.

Potential weaknesses or areas for consideration:

• Waiting Times: While not explicitly detailed, public systems can sometimes experience waiting times for non-urgent specialist appointments, a common characteristic of public healthcare globally.
• Rural Access: While there are facilities in each district, the level of specialized care might be more concentrated in urban centers.

Compared to neighboring countries, Brunei's healthcare system generally offers a very high standard, often exceeding that of many regional counterparts, particularly in terms of infrastructure and specialized services. The government's commitment to improving health and wellbeing is evident in its continuous investment and policy adjustments.