The healthcare system in Abidjan, consists of both public and private facilities. While the public healthcare system is accessible to foreigners, many expats and digital nomads prefer to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries.
Ivory Coast’s Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in Ivory Coast is called the Programme National de Développement Sanitaire (PNDS). Public hospitals in Abidjan are often crowded and may lack the necessary equipment and resources for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. As a result, many people, including foreigners, do not recommend using public hospitals for such cases. Expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system, but they primarily opt for private hospitals due to better facilities and services. Private hospitals in Abidjan are generally well-equipped and provide a higher standard of care, making them the preferred choice for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Abidjan
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Abidjan include:
- Centre Médical International (CMI) – a private hospital located in the Cocody neighborhood
- PISAM (Polyclinique Internationale Sainte Anne-Marie) – a private hospital in the Cocody neighborhood, specializing in various medical fields
- CHU de Treichville – a public hospital located in the Treichville neighborhood
- CHU de Cocody – a public hospital in the Cocody neighborhood
In case of emergencies or specialized medical care, expats may need to travel to nearby countries, such as Ghana or Morocco, for treatment.
Emergency Services in Abidjan
There are ambulance services in Abidjan, which can be reached by dialing 185. However, response times may vary, and there can be delays due to traffic or other factors. It is advisable to have a backup plan, such as arranging private transportation to a hospital in case of an emergency.
Health Insurance Companies in Abidjan
Popular private health insurers in Abidjan include NSIA Assurance, Allianz Côte d’Ivoire, and AXA Côte d’Ivoire. These companies offer various health insurance plans catering to different needs. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers that cater specifically to their needs. It is essential to carefully review and compare different insurance plans to find the best coverage for your specific situation.
