15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Papua New Guinea
Last updated on May 11, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Papua New Guinea is generally lower than in the United States. Medical facilities are often limited and under-resourced, and access to medical care can be difficult in rural areas. Emergency services are limited and may not be available in some areas. To call for an ambulance, you can contact the local police or fire department.
How are healthcare services Papua New Guinea?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Papua New Guinea, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Papua New Guinea are provided by both the public and private sectors. The public healthcare system is largely funded by the government and is the primary source of healthcare for the majority of the population. The quality of public healthcare varies greatly, with some areas having better access to resources and services than others. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, but the quality of care may not be as good as in their home countries. Expats in Papua New Guinea often use the public healthcare system, but they may also opt for private healthcare services if they can afford it. Private healthcare services are generally more expensive than public healthcare, but they may offer better quality care," mentioned one expat in Papua New Guinea.
What are medical services in Papua New Guinea like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Papua New Guinea, they replied:
"Medical services in Papua New Guinea are limited and often inadequate. The country has a shortage of medical personnel, and many of the existing medical facilities are poorly equipped and lack basic supplies. Access to healthcare is also limited due to the country's remote location and lack of infrastructure. Despite these challenges, the government is working to improve access to healthcare and has made progress in recent years," remarked one expat in Papua New Guinea.
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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Papua New Guinea?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Papua New Guinea can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government's health insurance scheme. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. The cost of medical care in Papua New Guinea is generally higher than in other countries, and the quality of care can vary significantly. Additionally, access to healthcare can be limited in some areas, making it difficult for people to receive the care they need," remarked one expat living in Papua New Guinea.
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What are emergency services like in Papua New Guinea?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Papua New Guinea wrote:
"Emergency services in Papua New Guinea are limited and vary in quality. In major cities, there are ambulances and other emergency services available, but they may not be as reliable as those in other countries. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the emergency number 111 or contact the local police station. It is important to note that in some areas, emergency services may not be available, so it is important to be prepared and have a plan in place in case of an emergency," said one expat.
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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Port Moresby is the largest city in Papua New Guinea and is home to the largest selection of medical specialists in the country. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Lae, Madang, Goroka, and Mount Hagen. Additionally, the coastal areas of Rabaul and Kavieng have a good selection of medical specialists," wrote one expat.
Are common prescription medications available in Papua New Guinea?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Papua New Guinea. Most medications are imported from overseas, and are available through pharmacies and hospitals. However, due to the limited availability of certain medications, some may not be available in the country. Additionally, the cost of medications can be expensive, so it is important to check with a doctor or pharmacist before purchasing any medications," remarked one expat living in Papua New Guinea.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Papua New Guinea?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Papua New Guinea are generally of a lower standard than in many other countries. Access to medical care is limited, particularly in rural areas, and the quality of care is often inadequate. The availability of medicines and medical supplies is also limited, and the cost of medical care is often prohibitively expensive for many people. Despite these challenges, the government is making efforts to improve access to healthcare and the quality of care," wrote an expat living in Papua New Guinea.
As a foreigner living in Papua New Guinea, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Papua New Guinea have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the region, but generally the public healthcare system is underfunded and understaffed. In some areas, the facilities are outdated and lack basic medical supplies. However, there are some areas with modern facilities and well-trained staff. In general, it is recommended that foreigners living in Papua New Guinea have private health insurance to ensure access to quality healthcare," said an expat in Papua New Guinea.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Papua New Guinea if they have access to public healthcare in Papua New Guinea. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Papua New Guinea. Access to healthcare services 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 a number of measures to address the situation, including the deployment of mobile health teams to remote areas, and the provision of additional funding for health services. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system in Papua New Guinea is still struggling to cope with the demands of the pandemic. Many people are unable to access the care they need, and the quality of care is often inadequate. The pandemic has also highlighted the need for greater investment in the healthcare system, to ensure that everyone in Papua New Guinea has access to quality healthcare," wrote one expat.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Papua New Guinea?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Papua New Guinea about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"1. Make sure to research the medical facilities available in the area and find a reliable doctor or midwife to provide prenatal care. 2. Consider enrolling in a childbirth education class to learn about the birthing process and what to expect. 3. Make sure to have a plan in place for the delivery, including a backup plan in case of an emergency. 4. Have a support system in place, such as family or friends, to help with the baby and provide emotional support. 5. Make sure to stock up on essential baby items, such as diapers, formula, and clothing, before the baby arrives. 6. Consider joining a local expat group or online forum to connect with other expats who have had babies in Papua New Guinea. 7. Be aware of the cultural norms and customs surrounding childbirth and parenting in Papua New Guinea. 8. Have a plan for postpartum care, including a plan for rest and recovery," remarked one expat in Papua New Guinea.
Are healthcare services good in Papua New Guinea?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Papua New Guinea. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Papua New Guinea are limited and often inadequate. Access to healthcare is limited due to the country's remote location and lack of infrastructure. The majority of healthcare services are provided by the government, with a few private clinics and hospitals. Healthcare is largely focused on primary care, with limited access to specialist care. The quality of care is often poor, with limited resources and a lack of trained healthcare professionals. The government has made efforts to improve healthcare services, but much more needs to be done to ensure that all citizens have access to quality healthcare," said one expat in Papua New Guinea.
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:
- Papua New Guinea Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Papua New Guinea
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Papua New Guinea
- Best Places to Live in Papua New Guinea
- Guide to Real Estate in Papua New Guinea
- Pros & Cons of Living in Papua New Guinea
- Cost of Living in Papua New Guinea
- Pros and Cons of Living in Papua New Guinea 2024