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15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Yemen

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 20, 2023

Summary: The quality of medical care in Yemen is generally lower than in the United States. Emergency services are limited and often unreliable, with long wait times for ambulances. In some cases, it may be necessary to call a private ambulance service.

How are healthcare services Yemen?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Yemen, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Yemen are limited due to the ongoing civil war and the resulting economic crisis. The public healthcare system is inadequate and underfunded, leading to poor quality services and limited access to medical care. Foreign residents have limited access to the public healthcare system, as it is mainly reserved for Yemeni citizens. Expats in Yemen typically rely on private healthcare services, which are more expensive but offer better quality care. Private clinics and hospitals are available in major cities, but access to these services is limited in rural areas," remarked one expat living in Yemen.

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What are medical services in Yemen like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Yemen, they replied:

"Medical services in Yemen are limited due to the ongoing conflict and lack of resources. Many hospitals and clinics have been damaged or destroyed, leaving many people without access to medical care. In addition, the country is facing a shortage of medical personnel, equipment, and supplies. Despite these challenges, some organizations are providing medical assistance to those in need, including vaccinations, primary care, and emergency services," said one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Yemen?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Yemen are very expensive. The cost of medical care is high, and the quality of care is often inadequate. Many people in Yemen cannot afford health insurance, and those who can often find that the coverage is inadequate. The lack of access to quality healthcare has led to a rise in preventable diseases and deaths in Yemen," commented one expat living in Yemen.

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What are emergency services like in Yemen?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Yemen wrote:

"Emergency services in Yemen are limited due to the ongoing civil war. In some areas, there are emergency services available, but they are often understaffed and lack the necessary resources to provide adequate care. To call for an ambulance, one can contact the local police station or the nearest hospital. In some cases, it may be necessary to contact a private ambulance service," said one expat.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The cities of Sana'a and Aden are known for having a wide range of medical specialists, including specialists in cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Additionally, the cities of Taiz and Al Hudaydah have a good selection of medical specialists, particularly in the fields of orthopedics and ophthalmology. Other cities in Yemen, such as Ibb, Dhamar, and Amran, also have a variety of medical specialists available," wrote one expat.

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Are common prescription medications available in Yemen?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Yemen. However, due to the ongoing conflict in the country, access to medications is limited and the availability of certain medications may vary. In addition, the quality of medications may not be up to international standards. As a result, it is important to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before taking any medications in Yemen," wrote one expat.

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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Yemen?

"The quality of medical facilities and medical care in Yemen is generally poor. Many medical facilities lack basic equipment and supplies, and medical staff are often undertrained and underpaid. Access to medical care is limited, particularly in rural areas, and the cost of medical care is often prohibitively expensive for many Yemenis. The ongoing conflict in the country has further exacerbated the situation, with many medical facilities destroyed or damaged, and medical staff unable to access certain areas," remarked one expat in Yemen.

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As a foreigner living in Yemen, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"As a foreigner living in Yemen, you may have access to public healthcare, depending on the type of visa you have. Generally, public healthcare in Yemen is of a lower quality than in other countries, with limited access to medical supplies and equipment. Additionally, the healthcare system is often underfunded and understaffed, leading to long wait times and overcrowded facilities. However, there are some private healthcare facilities in the country that offer better quality care," said an expat in Yemen.

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What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Yemen if they have access to public healthcare in Yemen. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"The pandemic has had a devastating impact on Yemen's already fragile healthcare system. Many healthcare facilities have been damaged or destroyed due to the ongoing conflict, leaving many people without access to basic medical care. The pandemic has exacerbated the situation, with limited resources and a lack of medical personnel making it difficult to provide adequate care. The limited availability of testing and treatment for COVID-19 has also been a major challenge, with many people unable to access the care they need. The situation has been further complicated by the lack of reliable information about the virus, making it difficult for people to protect themselves and their families," commented one expat who moved to Yemen.

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What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Yemen?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Yemen about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"It is important to research the medical facilities available in Yemen before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in Yemen. It is also important to ensure that you have access to a safe and clean birthing environment. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Yemen. Make sure to have a support system in place to help you through the process. Finally, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with having a baby in Yemen, such as the risk of contracting infectious diseases," said one person in Yemen.

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Are healthcare services good in Yemen?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Yemen. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in Yemen are severely limited due to the ongoing civil war. Many hospitals and medical facilities have been destroyed or are no longer operational, leaving many people without access to medical care. In addition, the lack of medical supplies and personnel has made it difficult for those who do have access to healthcare to receive adequate care. The World Health Organization has been providing assistance to Yemen in the form of medical supplies and personnel, but the situation remains dire," said one person in Yemen.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

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