15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Tajikistan
Last updated on Sep 01, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Tajikistan is generally lower than in the United States. Medical facilities are often outdated and lack the latest technology and treatments available in the US. Emergency services are limited and may not be available in some areas. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 103 or 112.
How are healthcare services Tajikistan?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Tajikistan, they replied:
"Tajikistan has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Tajikistan is generally considered to be low, with limited access to modern medical equipment and medicines. Foreign residents in Tajikistan have limited access to the public healthcare system, and most expats rely on private healthcare services. Expats in Tajikistan may use the public healthcare system for basic medical services, but they are not eligible for the same level of care as citizens. Private healthcare services are generally more expensive, but they offer a higher quality of care," remarked one expat in Tajikistan.
What are medical services in Tajikistan like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Tajikistan, they replied:
"Tajikistan has a public health system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that offer primary care services such as diagnosis and treatment of common illnesses, vaccinations, and preventive health care. Specialized medical services such as surgery, obstetrics, and gynecology are also available in some of the larger hospitals. In addition, there are a number of private medical facilities that offer more advanced medical services," remarked one expat in Tajikistan.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Tajikistan?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Tajikistan can be expensive for some people. The cost of healthcare services and health insurance can vary depending on the type of services needed and the provider. Generally, the cost of healthcare services is higher in urban areas than in rural areas. Additionally, the cost of health insurance can be high, especially for those who are not covered by the government's social health insurance program," wrote an expat living in Tajikistan.
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What are emergency services like in Tajikistan?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Tajikistan wrote:
"Emergency services in Tajikistan are available to provide medical assistance in the event of an emergency. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the emergency number 112. The ambulance service is free of charge and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The ambulance service is staffed by trained medical personnel who are able to provide medical assistance and transport to a hospital if necessary," wrote an expat living in Tajikistan.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"The capital city of Dushanbe is home to some of the best medical specialists in Tajikistan. The city of Khujand also has a wide selection of medical specialists, as does the city of Kulob. The region of Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region is also known for its excellent selection of medical specialists. Additionally, the cities of Qurghonteppa and Istaravshan are both known for their high quality medical specialists," commented one expat who moved to Tajikistan.
Are common prescription medications available in Tajikistan?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Tajikistan. Most medications are available in pharmacies, although some may require a prescription from a doctor. The availability of certain medications may vary depending on the region, but most medications used to treat common illnesses and conditions can be found in Tajikistan," wrote one expat.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Tajikistan?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Tajikistan are generally of a lower standard than in many other countries. The country has a shortage of medical personnel and a lack of modern medical equipment. Access to medical care is limited in rural areas, and the quality of care is often inadequate. The government has made efforts to improve the quality of medical care, but there is still much room for improvement," wrote one expat.
As a foreigner living in Tajikistan, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Tajikistan have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the region, but generally the public healthcare system is underfunded and understaffed. The facilities are often outdated and lack the necessary equipment and supplies to provide adequate care. However, there are some private clinics and hospitals that offer better quality care," commented one expat who moved to Tajikistan.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Tajikistan if they have access to public healthcare in Tajikistan. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Tajikistan. Many healthcare facilities have had to reduce their services due to the lack of resources and staff. The government has implemented strict measures to contain the spread of the virus, including the closure of schools and public places. Despite these measures, the number of cases has been increasing steadily. The healthcare system has been struggling to cope with the influx of patients, leading to long waiting times and overcrowding in hospitals. Additionally, the lack of access to testing and treatment has been a major challenge for the healthcare system. Despite these challenges, the healthcare system has been doing its best to provide quality care to those in need," wrote an expat living in Tajikistan.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Tajikistan?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Tajikistan about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Tajikistan before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in the country. It is also important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Tajikistan. Additionally, it is important to be prepared for the cost of having a baby in Tajikistan, as medical costs can be high. Finally, it is important to be aware of the legal requirements for registering a baby in Tajikistan, as this can be a complicated process," said one expat in Tajikistan.
Are healthcare services good in Tajikistan?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Tajikistan. They wrote:
"Tajikistan has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of hospitals, clinics, and health centers that provide primary care services such as immunizations, maternal and child health care, and preventive health services. In addition, there are specialized medical centers that provide more advanced services such as cardiology, oncology, and neurology. The government also provides free or subsidized medications to those in need. Despite these efforts, access to healthcare in Tajikistan remains limited due to a lack of resources and infrastructure," wrote a person living in Tajikistan.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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- What are medical services in Tajikistan like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Tajikistan?
- What are emergency services like in Tajikistan?
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- Are common prescription medications available in Tajikistan?
- How are local medical facilities in Tajikistan?
- As a foreigner living in Tajikistan, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?