The healthcare system in Dhaka is a mix of public and private hospitals and clinics. The public healthcare system is called the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and is used by both locals and foreigners. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Dhaka for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are well-equipped and staffed with experienced doctors. The experience at a public hospital in Dhaka can vary, but generally the staff are friendly and helpful. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Bangladesh. However, many expats prefer to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are more modern and offer a higher standard of care. Private hospitals in Dhaka are well-equipped and staffed with experienced doctors, and the experience is generally positive.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Dhaka
- Apollo Hospitals Dhaka: This is a private hospital located in Gulshan, Dhaka. It is well-equipped and specializes in cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics.
- United Hospital Limited: This is a private hospital located in Gulshan, Dhaka. It is well-equipped and specializes in cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics.
- Ibn Sina Hospital: This is a private hospital located in Dhanmondi, Dhaka. It is well-equipped and specializes in cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics.
- Square Hospitals: This is a private hospital located in Dhanmondi, Dhaka. It is well-equipped and specializes in cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics.
Emergency Services in Dhaka
There are ambulance services in Dhaka, and they can be called by dialing 999. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the time of day and the location.
Health Insurance Companies in Dhaka
The most popular private health insurers in Dhaka are United Insurance Company, Pragati Insurance Company, and Delta Life Insurance Company. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although some may opt for specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Dhaka: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Dhaka for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. However, there are some sacrifices you might have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you’ll need to choose the right neighborhood. Some of the more expensive areas, like Gulshan, Banani, and Baridhara, might be out of your budget if you want to maintain a high standard of living. These areas are popular among expats and have a lot of modern amenities, but the cost of living is significantly higher. Instead, consider looking for housing in areas like Dhanmondi, Uttara, or Mirpur. These neighborhoods are more affordable and still offer a decent quality of life.One of the main sacrifices you might have to make is in terms of your housing. While you can find modern apartments in Dhaka, they can be quite expensive, especially in the more upscale neighborhoods. You might have to settle for a slightly older apartment or one that’s not as spacious as you’d like. However, you can still find comfortable and well-maintained apartments within your budget.Another thing to consider is transportation. Traffic in Dhaka can be quite chaotic, and you might have to rely on public transportation or rickshaws more often than you’re used to. Owning a car can be expensive, so it’s best to use taxis, ridesharing services, or public transportation to get around the city.When it comes to dining out and entertainment, you’ll find that there are plenty of affordable options in Dhaka. Local restaurants and street food vendors offer delicious meals at low prices, so you can still enjoy eating out without breaking the bank. However, if you prefer dining at high-end restaurants or frequenting bars and clubs, you might have to cut back on these activities to stay within your budget.Lastly, you might have to adjust your expectations when it comes to certain amenities and services. For example, you might not have access to a gym or swimming pool in your apartment complex, or you might have to deal with occasional power outages and water shortages. However, these inconveniences are manageable, and you can still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in Dhaka on a $5,000 a month budget.Overall, living in Dhaka on $5,000 a month is doable, but it requires some adjustments and sacrifices. By choosing a more affordable neighborhood, being mindful of your spending on housing and transportation, and adjusting your expectations for certain amenities, you can still enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life in this vibrant city,” commented an expat living in Dhaka.
