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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Zambia | Expat Exchange
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15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Zambia

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 08, 2024

Summary: The quality of medical care in Zambia is generally lower than in the United States. Zambia has a shortage of medical professionals and a lack of access to modern medical technology. Emergency services are limited and often unreliable. To call for an ambulance, one must contact the local police station or the Ministry of Health.

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Cigna Global Health
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Cigna Global Health

How are healthcare services Zambia?

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

"Healthcare services in Zambia are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens of Zambia. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a lower standard than private healthcare. Foreign residents do have access to the public healthcare system, but they may be required to pay for some services. Expats in Zambia generally use the private healthcare system, as it is more reliable and of a higher quality than the public system," remarked one expat living in Zambia.

What are medical services in Zambia like?

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

"Zambia has a public health system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country has a network of health centers and hospitals that offer primary care services such as immunizations, antenatal care, and family planning. Zambia also has a number of private health facilities that provide more specialized services such as surgery, radiology, and laboratory services. The country has a shortage of medical personnel, however, and many of the health centers and hospitals are understaffed and lack adequate resources. Despite these challenges, the government is working to improve access to healthcare and has implemented a number of initiatives to increase the availability of medical services," wrote one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Zambia?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Zambia 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 healthcare facilities in Zambia are not well-equipped and may not have the necessary resources to provide quality care. As a result, many people in Zambia are unable to access the healthcare they need due to the high cost," commented one expat living in Zambia.

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What are emergency services like in Zambia?

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

"Emergency services in Zambia are provided by the Zambia Red Cross Society and the Ministry of Health. In order to call for an ambulance, one can contact the Zambia Red Cross Society by dialing 990 or the Ministry of Health by dialing 991. The Zambia Red Cross Society also provides a toll-free number for emergency services, which is 993," said an expat in Zambia.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Lusaka, the capital of Zambia, is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country. The University Teaching Hospital in Lusaka is well-known for its excellent medical care and has a wide range of specialists in various fields. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Kitwe, Ndola, and Livingstone. Additionally, the Copperbelt Province is known for its high-quality medical care and has a number of well-regarded specialists," said an expat in Zambia.

Are common prescription medications available in Zambia?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Zambia. Most medications are available through pharmacies, although some may require a prescription from a doctor. The availability of certain medications may vary depending on the region, but most common medications are available. In addition, the Zambian government has implemented a number of initiatives to ensure that essential medicines are available and affordable for all citizens," mentioned one expat in Zambia.

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

"Medical facilities and medical care in Zambia vary in quality. In some areas, there are well-equipped hospitals and clinics staffed by qualified medical professionals. However, in other areas, medical facilities may be limited and medical care may be inadequate. In general, access to quality medical care is limited in Zambia, and many people lack access to basic medical services," remarked one expat living in Zambia.

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

"Yes, foreigners living in Zambia 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 overcrowded and lack basic medical supplies. However, there are some private hospitals and clinics that offer better quality care," commented one expat living in Zambia.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Zambia. Access to healthcare has become more difficult due to the closure of many health facilities and the limited availability of medical supplies. Many healthcare workers have been overworked and underpaid, leading to a shortage of healthcare professionals. The government has implemented various measures to help mitigate the effects of the pandemic, such as providing free testing and treatment for COVID-19, as well as providing financial support to healthcare workers. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system in Zambia is still struggling to cope with the pandemic," remarked one expat living in Zambia.

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

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

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Zambia before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in Zambia. It is also important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Zambia. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the laws and regulations regarding birth registration and citizenship in Zambia. Finally, it is important to be prepared for the cost of having a baby in Zambia, as medical costs can be high," said one expat in Zambia.

Are healthcare services good in Zambia?

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

"Healthcare services in Zambia are generally limited and of low quality. The country has a shortage of healthcare professionals, and many of the existing healthcare facilities are underfunded and lack basic medical supplies. Access to healthcare is also limited in rural areas, where many people lack access to basic medical care. The government has made efforts to improve healthcare services, but much more needs to be done to ensure that all Zambians have access to quality healthcare," said one expat in Zambia.

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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