Top Hospitals in Gambia by Specialty
Summary: If you're moving to Gambia or recently arrived, it's important to know about the country's top hospitals for specific medical conditions. Here's a primer.
The Gambia, a small country in West Africa, offers a range of medical facilities, though it may not have the same level of healthcare infrastructure as more developed nations. The healthcare system in The Gambia is a mix of public and private hospitals. Public hospitals are more affordable but may lack certain specialized services and advanced medical equipment. Private hospitals, on the other hand, tend to offer better facilities and more specialized care, but at a higher cost. Expats, international retirees, and digital nomads living in The Gambia may find that while basic medical care is accessible, treatment for complex medical conditions and surgeries might be limited. For certain specialized treatments, such as advanced cancer care or complex heart surgeries, patients may choose to travel to other countries with more developed healthcare systems.
Top Hospitals in Gambia for Heart Surgery and Chronic Heart Conditions
For heart surgery and chronic heart conditions, the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) in Banjul is one of the main public hospitals offering cardiology services. However, due to limited resources, patients with complex heart conditions may consider seeking treatment abroad or at private clinics within the country that have partnerships with international health providers.
Best Hospitals in Gambia for Cancer Care
Cancer care in The Gambia is an area that is still developing. The EFSTH provides some oncology services, but specialized cancer treatment options are limited. Expats and retirees may need to look for treatment in neighboring countries or return to their home countries for comprehensive cancer care.
Leading Hospitals with Neonatal Intensive Care Units
The Gambia has a few hospitals with neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). The EFSTH and the Kanifing General Hospital are two of the main hospitals that offer neonatal care. Private hospitals such as the Sharab Medical Centre also provide neonatal services, with better facilities but at a higher cost.
Top Hospitals in Gambia for Diabetes Management
Diabetes management is available at most major hospitals in The Gambia, including the EFSTH and the Serekunda General Hospital. These hospitals offer general treatment for diabetes, but specialized endocrinology services may be limited.
Best Hospitals for Kidney Treatment and Care
Kidney treatment and care can be found at the EFSTH, which houses the main renal unit in the country. For more advanced cases, such as those requiring dialysis or kidney transplants, patients may need to seek treatment outside The Gambia.
Top Hospitals in Gambia for Neurology
Neurological services in The Gambia are primarily provided by the EFSTH. While basic neurology care is available, treatment for complex neurological conditions or advanced neurosurgical procedures may not be available in the country.
Best Hospitals for Stroke Treatment
Stroke treatment is available at the EFSTH and the Serekunda General Hospital. These hospitals offer acute care for stroke patients, but rehabilitation services and long-term care options may be limited within the country.
Leading Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery
Orthopedic surgery is performed at both public and private hospitals in The Gambia. The EFSTH and the Serekunda General Hospital are the main public hospitals providing orthopedic services. Private hospitals like the Lamtoro Medical Clinic also offer orthopedic surgeries, often with shorter wait times and more personalized care.
Top Hospitals in Gambia for Pediatric Care
Pediatric care is available at most hospitals in The Gambia, with the EFSTH and the Serekunda General Hospital being the primary providers. For specialized pediatric care, the MRC Unit The Gambia at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine offers research-led medical services and has a reputation for high-quality care.
It is important for expats, international retirees, and digital nomads to have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical evacuation in case they require specialized treatment not available in The Gambia. Additionally, it is advisable to maintain regular contact with one's home country's embassy or consulate for updated health advisories and assistance in medical emergencies.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Gambia Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Gambia
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Gambia
- Best Places to Live in Gambia
- Guide to Real Estate in Gambia
- Pros & Cons of Living in Gambia
- Cost of Living in Gambia
- How to Buy a Home in Gambia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Gambia
- Chikungunya Disease in Gambia
- How to Rent a Home in Gambia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Gambia 2024