Living in the Cooks
Health Services
Cook Islanders have reasonable quality health care provided by Te Marae Ora. The main hospital is located in Rarotonga and can treat most conditions (illnesses and accidents). When local treatment is not possible, patients will be transferred as part of the overseas patient referral system to selected New Zealand healthcare providers. Outpatient services are available from the Rarotonga hospital situated in Arorangi or at the Community Health Clinic in Tupapa. Several private medical practitioners also provide health care.
Most of the outer islands have a resident doctor, nurse and a small hospital. They are equipped to manage the treatment of common illnesses and health problems. The more serious cases are referred to Rarotonga Hospital or New Zealand as part of the Cook Islands Patient Referral policy.
Dental Services
The provision of dental services is similar to health care services. In Rarotonga, a full range of dental services is available from the Ministry of Health’s Dental Clinic located at Tupapa or from several private dentists. Free dental care is available in schools. The outer islands dental services are more limited, and patients may need to be referred to Rarotonga if complications arise.
