The healthcare system in Zanzibar consists of both public and private facilities. While the public healthcare system is accessible to foreigners, the quality of care may not be up to the standards expected by expats and digital nomads.
Tanzania’s Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in Tanzania is known as the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MoHSW). It is used by both locals and foreigners, including expats and digital nomads. However, public hospitals in Zanzibar are not generally recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgeries due to limited resources and inadequate infrastructure. Public hospitals in Zanzibar can be crowded, with long waiting times and a lack of specialized equipment. Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Tanzania, but expats and digital nomads typically prefer private hospitals for their healthcare needs. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, as they tend to have better facilities and more specialized staff.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Zanzibar
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Zanzibar include:
- Al-Rahma Hospital (Private) – located in Zanzibar City
- Zanzibar Medical Group (Private) – located in Zanzibar City
- Mnazi Mmoja Hospital (Public) – located in Zanzibar City
- Zanzibar International Hospital (Private) – located in Zanzibar City, specializing in emergency care and surgery
Emergency Services in Zanzibar
There are ambulance services in Zanzibar, but they may not be as reliable or timely as those in more developed countries. To call for an ambulance, dial 112 or 114. Delays in ambulance services can occur due to traffic, poor road conditions, or limited availability of vehicles and staff.
Health Insurance Companies in Zanzibar
Some popular private health insurance companies in Zanzibar include Jubilee Insurance, National Insurance Corporation (NIC), and Alliance Insurance. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local insurance providers or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers that cater to their specific needs and offer coverage for medical treatment both in Tanzania and abroad.
