Everything You Need To Know About Health Insurance In Africa

As diverse as Africa is, health standards should be. Its healthcare systems mirror regional cultures. North and Sub-Saharan Africa have different levels of state and private health insurance. In the continent’s larger and stronger economies, public health systems are decent but stretched. Private facilities are fast but mostly serve wealthy and international families.

Another major divide across the continent is rural versus urban. Expats moving to cities can anticipate good healthcare. However, expatriate workers often find it more challenging on the field. There are some expat ‘hubs’ in rural places with better sanitary services, although they vary by country. Private health insurance in Africa is appropriate for expats in metropolitan cities or places with high international traffic.

Health Insurance in Africa for Expats and Visitors

1. Options for National Health Insurance in West Africa – Nigeria & Ghana

Nigeria has nationwide public health insurance. However, the country’s weak medical infrastructure remains. Private health care exists in big cities. Additionally, tetanus and cholera are remain fatal in the country, unlike in other affluent nations. Thus, a comprehensive insurance plan is advised before going to Nigeria. The plan should cover evacuation to another nation for treatment and repatriation in case of serious sickness or death.

Neighboring National Health Insurance is also available in Ghana. It costs more for expats. Foreigners should have an all-inclusive premium due to limited medical resources. In West Africa, malaria and polio are still common. Seek medical advice before moving to Ghana for immunizations and other preventive measures.

2. Private Healthcare in Southern Africa – South Africa & Zimbabwe

Private healthcare thrives in South Africa. Many visitors from neighboring countries fly in for high-end private health care. Thus, South Africa offers reliable health care. Over 75% of doctors are private practitioners, yet only 16% of the population uses modern private facilities. Being a popular expat destination, South Africa meets the world’s most advanced health and safety requirements.

The public health service serves most of the 55 million inhabitants in the country. Thus, local state-run clinics and hospitals are always overcrowded. The doctor-to-patient ratio is low in the country. This means expats avoid the ‘local’ experience.

South African neighbors Zimbabwe use advanced medication from South Africa. Thus, international citizens seeking modern health treatments must go to Cape Town or Durban. Healthcare development in Zimbabwe reflects its economic poverty. Few state hospitals satisfy expats. Strong, comprehensive health insurance is advised. Those coming to Zimbabwe must pay in advance before treatment, thus cash flow must be planned.

3. North Africa’s Health Insurance Options – Morocco & Egypt

Like many African nations, Morocco uses insurance to fund its public hospitals and clinics. This is poor quality for a developing nation. International citizens naturally seek private medical care. Private health treatments are very expensive in the country, thus insurance is essential.

Egypt compares poorly. Even serious treatment or surgery should be considered elsewhere. Thus, expats moving to Egypt should choose an evacuation and repatriation insurance package. There are many foreign doctors in Egyptian private healthcare, however it’s preferable to ask other foreigners about the best hospitals and clinics.

4. Health Insurance in East Africa – Kenya

Insurance funds Kenya’s public health system. Although amenities vary by region, expect poor treatment and hygiene. This is why expats choose private doctors. Facilities and hygiene are usually better.

Moving to Kenya requires vaccinations for several diseases. Recommended for yellow fever, Hepatitis A, and typhoid. Given the prevalence of malaria in the country, malaria pills should be considered. A comprehensive health insurance plan should cover these risks and procedures.

Tips for Health Insurance in Africa

Start with a firm foundation before heading to the continent. Make sure the country you’re moving to has the care you need for specific illnesses and treatments. Also, make sure your African health insurance covers these details. For those relocating to Africa, private healthcare is better, although it may not meet your standards. Remember that repatriation or evacuation to another nation is prevalent in the region and should be part of your plan.

Medical Plans for Foreigners Living in Africa

• Cigna Global is a great choice when living abroad. With their 24/7 customer service and flexibility in plans, you have great options.

Best Insurance Plan for U.S. Citizens Living in Africa

GeoBlue Xplorer is an excellent comprehensive plan for U.S. Citizens living in Africa.