Health Care in Nairobi

The healthcare system in Nairobi is a mix of public and private hospitals and clinics. The public healthcare system is called the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF) and is used by both locals and foreigners. However, most expats and digital nomads opt for private healthcare. Public hospitals in Nairobi are generally not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery, as they are often overcrowded and understaffed. The quality of care at public hospitals can vary greatly, and foreigners may not be able to access the same level of care as locals. Private hospitals in Nairobi are generally better equipped and offer higher quality care, but they can be expensive.

Kenya's Healthcare System

Kenya's public healthcare system is the National Hospital Insurance Fund (NHIF). It is used by both locals and foreigners, but most expats and digital nomads opt for private healthcare. Public hospitals in Nairobi are generally not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery, as they are often overcrowded and understaffed. The quality of care at public hospitals can vary greatly, and foreigners may not be able to access the same level of care as locals. Private hospitals in Nairobi are generally better equipped and offer higher quality care, but they can be expensive.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Nairobi

The most popular hospitals and clinics for expats in Nairobi are:

• Aga Khan University Hospital, a private hospital located in Parklands
• Nairobi Hospital, a private hospital located in Upper Hill
• Mater Hospital, a private hospital located in South B
• MP Shah Hospital, a private hospital located in Parklands
• Gertrude's Children's Hospital, a private hospital located in Karen
• Karen Hospital, a private hospital located in Karen

For specialized medical care and surgeries, expats in Nairobi often go to hospitals outside of the city, such as the Aga Khan University Hospital in Mombasa (approximately 500 km away by car) or the Aga Khan University Hospital in Kisumu (approximately 300 km away by car).

Emergency Services in Nairobi

Nairobi does have ambulance services, which can be called by dialing 112. Response times can vary, but generally ambulances arrive within 30 minutes.

Health Insurance Companies in Nairobi

The most popular private health insurers in Nairobi are CIC Insurance, UAP Old Mutual, Resolution Health, and Jubilee Insurance. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, rather than specialized expat health insurance providers.