The healthcare system in Addis Ababa is a mix of public and private healthcare. The public healthcare system is called the Ethiopian Health Insurance Agency (EHIA) and is used by both locals and foreigners. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Addis Ababa for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Addis Ababa are often crowded and understaffed, but they are free or low-cost and provide basic medical care. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Ethiopia. However, many expats prefer to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in Addis Ababa are more expensive but offer better facilities and services.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Addis Ababa
There are several recommended clinics and hospitals in Addis Ababa for expats. These include:
- Black Lion Hospital: This is a public hospital located in the center of Addis Ababa. It is the largest hospital in Ethiopia and provides a wide range of medical services.
- St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College: This is a private hospital located in the Bole area of Addis Ababa. It specializes in cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics.
- Yekatit 12 Hospital: This is a public hospital located in the Piazza area of Addis Ababa. It specializes in obstetrics and gynecology.
In an emergency, expats in Addis Ababa typically go to the Black Lion Hospital or St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College. These hospitals are located approximately 10-15 minutes away by car from the center of Addis Ababa.
Emergency Services in Addis Ababa
There are ambulance services in Addis Ababa. You can call for an ambulance by dialing 991. Ambulances usually come quickly, but there can be delays sometimes.
Health Insurance Companies in Addis Ababa
The most popular private health insurers in Addis Ababa are Ethiopian Insurance Corporation, Ethiopian Reinsurance Company, and Ethiopian Insurance Company. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Addis Ababa: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Addis Ababa for a few years 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 Bole and Old Airport, might be out of your budget if you want to maintain a certain lifestyle. Instead, consider more affordable neighborhoods like Kazanchis, Sarbet, or Megenagna. These areas still have good access to modern amenities, but the cost of living is more reasonable.One of the sacrifices you might have to make is in terms of housing. While you can find nice apartments or houses in Addis Ababa, they might not be as luxurious as what you’re used to back home. You might have to compromise on the size or the quality of the finishes, but you can still find comfortable and safe places to live within your budget.Another area where you might need to adjust your expectations is in terms of transportation. While there are taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber available in Addis Ababa, they can be quite expensive if you use them regularly. Instead, consider using the local minibuses or the light rail system, which are more affordable options.Eating out can also be quite expensive in Addis Ababa, especially if you prefer international cuisine. To save money, try to eat at local restaurants or cook at home more often. There are plenty of supermarkets and local markets where you can buy groceries at reasonable prices.Finally, you might have to cut back on some of the leisure activities you’re used to. While there are gyms, cinemas, and other entertainment options in Addis Ababa, they can be quite pricey. Instead, look for more affordable ways to spend your free time, like exploring the city’s parks, museums, and cultural sites.Overall, living in Addis Ababa on $5,000 a month is definitely doable, but you’ll need to be mindful of your spending and be willing to make some sacrifices. By choosing the right neighborhood, being smart about transportation, and finding affordable ways to enjoy your free time, you can live comfortably and still enjoy the city’s unique culture and atmosphere,” commented an expat living in Addis Ababa.
