15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Namibia
Last updated on Sep 01, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Namibia is generally considered to be good, although it is not as advanced as in the United States. Emergency services are available in the major cities, and ambulances can be called by dialing the emergency number, 112. However, in rural areas, medical care is more limited and emergency services may not be available.
How are healthcare services Namibia?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Namibia, they replied:
"Namibia has a public healthcare system that provides basic healthcare services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Namibia is generally considered to be good, with a focus on preventative care and primary healthcare. Foreign residents in Namibia have access to the public healthcare system, although they may be required to pay for some services. Expats in Namibia can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats may also choose to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," commented one expat who moved to Namibia.
What are medical services in Namibia like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Namibia, they replied:
"Namibia has a public health system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country also has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer more specialized care. The government has invested in improving the quality of healthcare in the country, and there are a number of initiatives in place to ensure that all citizens have access to quality medical services. The country also has a number of international medical organizations that provide assistance to those in need," said an expat in Namibia.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Namibia?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Namibia can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by a government-sponsored health insurance plan. Private health insurance plans are available, but they can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, many medical services are not covered by insurance, and out-of-pocket costs can be high. The cost of healthcare in Namibia is also affected by the availability of medical services, which can be limited in some areas," said one expat.
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What are emergency services like in Namibia?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Namibia wrote:
"Emergency services in Namibia are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial the emergency number 112. This number is toll-free and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The operator will then dispatch an ambulance to the scene of the emergency," said an expat in Namibia.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Windhoek is the largest city in Namibia and is home to the largest selection of medical specialists in the country. The city is home to a number of hospitals and clinics, including the Windhoek Central Hospital, the Katutura State Hospital, and the Windhoek Private Hospital. Other cities in Namibia with a good selection of medical specialists include Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, and Oshakati. Additionally, the coastal towns of Luderitz and Walvis Bay are known for their excellent medical facilities," wrote an expat living in Namibia.
Are common prescription medications available in Namibia?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Namibia. Most pharmacies in the country carry a wide range of medications, including those used to treat common illnesses such as colds, flu, and allergies. In addition, many pharmacies also carry medications used to treat more serious conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Some pharmacies also offer specialized medications for specific conditions, such as cancer or HIV/AIDS," said an expat in Namibia.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Namibia?
"Lady Pohamba is top notch. Medi Clinic OK but not as good. Catholic Hospital 3rd best and then Rhino ... all are private. Eros Family Practice is a very good GP. if you have a special condition, you may struggle to find a specialist," commented one expat who moved to Windhoek.
"Medical facilities and medical care in Namibia are generally of a good quality. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. The government has invested heavily in the health sector, and there are a range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, and emergency services. The country also has a number of private medical facilities, which offer a range of services at competitive prices. In general, Namibians have access to quality medical care and facilities," said one expat.
As a foreigner living in Namibia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Namibia have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Namibia is generally of a good standard, with a wide range of services available. The government provides free healthcare to all citizens and permanent residents, and there are also private healthcare facilities available. The public healthcare system is well-funded and staffed by qualified professionals, and there are a number of hospitals and clinics located throughout the country. The quality of care varies from region to region, but overall the public healthcare system in Namibia is considered to be of a good standard," commented one expat living in Namibia.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Namibia if they have access to public healthcare in Namibia. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Namibia. The government has implemented a number of measures to protect the public, including the closure of borders, the suspension of international flights, and the introduction of a nationwide curfew. The healthcare system has also been affected, with hospitals and clinics facing shortages of medical supplies and staff. Despite these challenges, the healthcare system has been able to provide essential services to the public, including testing and treatment for COVID-19. The government has also provided financial support to healthcare workers and facilities to help them cope with the pandemic," remarked one expat in Namibia.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Namibia?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Namibia about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Namibia before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in Namibia. It is also important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Namibia. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the laws and regulations regarding birth registration and citizenship in Namibia. Finally, it is important to be prepared for the cost of having a baby in Namibia, as it can be expensive," said one expat in Namibia.
Are healthcare services good in Namibia?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Namibia. They wrote:
"Namibia has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country also has a number of private healthcare providers that offer more comprehensive services. The government has invested in improving the quality of healthcare services in the country, including the construction of new hospitals and clinics. In addition, the government has implemented a number of initiatives to improve access to healthcare, such as providing free healthcare to pregnant women and children under the age of five. The country also has a number of specialized healthcare centers that provide specialized services such as cancer treatment and HIV/AIDS care," wrote a person living in Namibia.
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.
Additional Information:
- Namibia Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Namibia
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Namibia
- Best Places to Live in Namibia
- Guide to Real Estate in Namibia
- Pros & Cons of Living in Namibia
- Cost of Living in Namibia
- Educational System in Namibia
- 10 Things to Know Before Moving to Namibia
- Buying a Home in Namibia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Namibia
- Pros and Cons of Living in Namibia 2024