Medical Services, Pharmacies & Emergency Information for Long Island Visitors
INTRODUCTION
Although Long Island is known for its beaches, blue holes, fishing, and scenic landscapes, visitors should also understand the healthcare services available before they travel. Medical facilities on the island primarily consist of government-operated community clinics that provide primary healthcare, emergency stabilization, pharmacy services, and routine outpatient care. Serious medical emergencies requiring specialist treatment are generally transferred to Nassau by air.
Whether you're staying near Clarence Town, Deadman's Cay, Salt Pond, Stella Maris, or Cape Santa Maria, knowing where to obtain medical assistance provides additional peace of mind during your visit. This guide focuses specifically on healthcare services while complementing the Ultimate Long Island Travel Guide, which covers transportation, accommodations, attractions, and travel planning throughout the island.
MEDICAL SERVICES ON LONG ISLAND
Long Island's public healthcare network is managed by the Bahamas Department of Public Health.
Visitors have access to several government community clinics providing:
-
General medical consultations
-
Minor injury treatment
-
Primary healthcare
-
Family medicine
-
Pharmacy services
-
Immunizations
-
Maternal and child health services
-
Emergency stabilization before transfer if necessary
These clinics serve both residents and visitors during regular operating hours.
DEADMAN'S CAY COMMUNITY CLINIC
The principal medical facility for many visitors is the Dr. David Simms Health Clinic / Deadman's Cay Community Clinic, located near the center of the island.
Services include:
The clinic normally operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
CLARENCE TOWN COMMUNITY CLINIC
Visitors staying in southern Long Island can obtain care at the Clarence Town Community Clinic.
The clinic provides:
-
General consultations
-
Minor injuries
-
Primary healthcare
-
Pharmacy services
-
Routine medical care
Normal operating hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
SIMMS COMMUNITY CLINIC
Located in Simms, the Simms Community Clinic serves nearby communities and visitors exploring the southern part of the island.
Available services include:
-
Walk-in consultations
-
Primary care
-
Family medicine
-
Pharmacy
-
Preventive healthcare
Appointments are generally not required for routine visits.
PHARMACIES ON LONG ISLAND
Prescription medications and basic pharmaceutical services are available through government clinic pharmacies.
Visitors should note:
-
Pharmacy hours generally follow clinic operating hours.
-
Stock may be limited compared with larger islands.
-
Prescription availability cannot always be guaranteed.
Travelers should bring:
-
Prescription medications
-
Medical devices
-
Spare eyeglasses
-
Contact lenses
-
Specialized medications
-
Travel first-aid kit
For essential prescriptions, carrying enough medication for the entire trip is strongly recommended.
PRIVATE MEDICAL CARE
In addition to government clinics, visitors may also find limited private healthcare services, including Long Island MD Medical Clinic near Hamilton's. Availability and appointment schedules may vary, so contacting the clinic in advance is advisable.
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
For serious medical emergencies requiring surgery, advanced imaging, or specialist treatment, patients are typically stabilized on Long Island before being transferred by air ambulance to Nassau.
Major referral hospitals include:
These hospitals provide comprehensive emergency and specialist services unavailable on Long Island.
EMERGENCY CONTACTS
Visitors should know the following emergency numbers:
Always call emergency services immediately if a life-threatening situation occurs.
HEALTHCARE TIPS FOR VISITORS
Before traveling:
-
Pack sufficient prescription medication.
-
Bring travel insurance covering medical evacuation.
-
Carry insect repellent.
-
Use reef-safe sunscreen.
-
Stay hydrated.
-
Pack a small first-aid kit.
-
Keep emergency contact numbers readily available.
These simple precautions help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
TRAVELER PLANNING INFORMATION
Primary Clinics
Nearest Major Hospital
Princess Margaret Hospital, Nassau
Private Medical Care
Long Island MD Medical Clinic
Emergency Number
919 (Medical)
FAQ SECTION
Is there a hospital on Long Island?
No full-service hospital operates on Long Island. Healthcare is provided through community clinics, while major emergencies are transferred to Nassau.
Where can I see a doctor?
Visitors can receive treatment at the Deadman's Cay, Clarence Town, or Simms Community Clinics, or at Long Island MD Medical Clinic.
Are pharmacies available?
Yes. Government clinics operate pharmacies providing prescription medications and routine pharmaceutical services.
What emergency number should I call?
Medical emergencies can be reported by calling 919.
Can visitors receive medical treatment?
Yes. Government community clinics provide healthcare services to both residents and visitors.
Why should I bring my own medication?
Because pharmacy inventories on Family Islands may be limited, visitors should travel with enough medication for their entire stay.
EXPLORE MORE LONG ISLAND GUIDES
LOCAL & DESTINATION CONTEXT
Healthcare facilities on Long Island are strategically located near communities such as Deadman's Cay, Clarence Town, and Simms, ensuring access for residents and visitors exploring the island. Combined with nearby airports, road connections along Queen's Highway, and emergency air transfers to Nassau when necessary, these services support safe travel while allowing visitors to enjoy Long Island's beaches, blue holes, fishing grounds, and outdoor attractions with confidence.
CONCLUSION
Long Island offers dependable primary healthcare through its network of government clinics and a limited number of private providers. While advanced medical services are located in Nassau, visitors can access routine care, emergency stabilization, pharmacy services, and family medicine throughout the island.
Planning by carrying medications, obtaining travel insurance, and knowing the location of nearby clinics helps ensure a worry-free visit. Continue with the Ultimate Long Island Travel Guide to discover more about accommodations, transportation, beaches, and attractions across one of The Bahamas' most beautiful Family Islands.
Long Island, Deadman's Cay, Clarence Town, Simms, Deadman's Cay Community Clinic, Clarence Town Community Clinic, Simms Community Clinic, Long Island MD Medical Clinic, Princess Margaret Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Deadman's Cay Airport, Queen's Highway, Bahamas Department of Public Health, pharmacy, emergency care, medical clinic, family medicine, travel insurance, air ambulance, healthcare, Bahamas
Updated as of July 2026.