Healthcare and Health Insurance in Gambia

Summary: The quality of medical care in Gambia is generally lower than in the United States. Emergency services are limited and often lack the necessary resources to provide adequate care. To call for an ambulance, one must contact the Gambian Ministry of Health or the local police station.

How are healthcare services Gambia?

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

"Gambia has a public healthcare system that provides basic healthcare services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Gambia is generally considered to be below average, with limited access to specialized care and a lack of modern medical equipment. Foreign residents in Gambia are able to access the public healthcare system, but the quality of care is not as good as what is available in other countries. Expats in Gambia typically use private healthcare services, which are more expensive but offer better quality care," said an expat in Gambia.

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What are medical services in Gambia like?

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

"Gambia has a public health system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country has a number of hospitals and clinics that offer a range of services, including primary care, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and surgery. The quality of care varies from facility to facility, but overall, the medical services in Gambia are adequate for most basic medical needs. The country also has a number of private medical facilities that offer more specialized services," said an expat in Gambia.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Gambia?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Gambia can be expensive for some people. The cost of healthcare services and health insurance can vary depending on the type of care needed and the provider. Generally, healthcare services are more expensive in urban areas than in rural areas. Health insurance is not widely available in Gambia, and those who do have it often pay high premiums. Additionally, many people in Gambia are unable to afford health insurance, leaving them without access to quality healthcare," commented one expat living in Gambia.

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What are emergency services like in Gambia?

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

"Emergency services in Gambia are limited and vary in quality. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial the Gambian emergency number, 112. This number is free to call and connects to the Gambian Emergency Medical Services (GEMS). GEMS is a non-profit organization that provides emergency medical services to the public. They have a fleet of ambulances and medical personnel that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week," said an expat in Gambia.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"The capital city of Banjul is home to the largest selection of medical specialists in Gambia. Other cities such as Serekunda, Bakau, and Brikama also have a wide range of medical specialists available. Additionally, the coastal towns of Brufut and Kotu are known for their excellent selection of medical specialists," commented one expat who moved to Gambia.

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Are common prescription medications available in Gambia?

"Prescription medications are available in Gambia, although the availability of certain medications may be limited. Many pharmacies in Gambia carry a wide range of generic medications, as well as some brand-name medications. However, some medications may not be available due to limited supply or lack of availability in the country. Additionally, some medications may require a doctor's prescription in order to be purchased," commented one expat living in Gambia.

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

"The medical facilities and medical care in Gambia are generally of a good standard. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by qualified medical professionals. The government has also invested in improving the quality of medical care, with initiatives such as the introduction of free healthcare for children under five and the provision of free antiretroviral drugs for HIV/AIDS patients. However, access to medical care is still limited in some rural areas, and the cost of medical care can be prohibitive for many people," remarked one expat in Gambia.

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

"Yes, foreigners living in Gambia have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the facility, but generally the public healthcare system is underfunded and understaffed. The public healthcare system is largely focused on primary care, with limited access to specialist care. However, there are some private hospitals and clinics that offer higher quality care," commented one expat living in Gambia.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Gambia. Access to healthcare has been limited due to the closure of many health facilities, and the lack of resources and personnel to provide care. The government has implemented measures to ensure the safety of healthcare workers, such as providing protective equipment and training on infection prevention and control. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system has been overwhelmed by the influx of patients seeking care for COVID-19. Additionally, the pandemic has caused a shortage of essential medicines and medical supplies, making it difficult for healthcare workers to provide adequate care," remarked one expat in Gambia.

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

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

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Gambia before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in Gambia. It is also important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Gambia. Additionally, it is important to be prepared for the cost of having a baby in Gambia, as medical costs can be high. Finally, it is important to be aware of the laws and regulations surrounding the birth of a child in Gambia, as they may differ from those in your home country," explained one expat living in Gambia.

Are healthcare services good in Gambia?

"Gambia has a public healthcare system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country has a number of hospitals and clinics, as well as a few private medical facilities. Healthcare services in Gambia are generally of a lower quality than those found in more developed countries, and access to medical care can be limited in rural areas. The government has made efforts to improve healthcare services, including increasing access to essential medicines and providing free healthcare for pregnant women and children under five," said one person in Gambia.

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Gambia

How are healthcare services Gambia?

What are medical services in Gambia like?

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Gambia?

What are emergency services like in Gambia?

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

Are common prescription medications available in Gambia?

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

As a foreigner living in Gambia, 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?

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

Are healthcare services good in Gambia?

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