Healthcare & Health Insurance in Congo
Summary: Digital Nomads in Congo share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in Congo, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.
What are healthcare services like in Congo?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Congo, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Congo are limited and the quality of care is generally poor. The public healthcare system is largely underfunded and understaffed, and is unable to meet the needs of the population. The majority of healthcare services are provided by private providers, which are often expensive and out of reach for many Congolese citizens. Foreign residents have limited access to the public healthcare system, and most expats in Congo rely on private healthcare providers. Expats may be able to access some public healthcare services, such as vaccinations, but they are generally not eligible for the same level of care as Congolese citizens," remarked one member in Congo.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
What is the quality of medical care in Congo like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Congo, they replied:
"Medical services in Congo are limited due to a lack of resources and infrastructure. The majority of medical care is provided by the government, but there are also some private clinics and hospitals. The quality of care varies greatly, with some facilities providing basic care while others offer more advanced services. In general, access to medical care is limited and the cost of treatment is often prohibitively expensive. Additionally, there is a shortage of qualified medical personnel, and many medical professionals lack the necessary training and experience to provide adequate care," explained one digital nomad living in Congo.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Congo?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Congo are generally quite expensive. The cost of medical care is often beyond the reach of many people, and the quality of care is often inadequate. Health insurance is also expensive and often not available to those who need it most. The lack of access to quality healthcare and health insurance has a significant impact on the health of the population," explained one expat living in Congo.
What are emergency services like in Congo?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Congo wrote:
"Emergency services in the Democratic Republic of Congo are limited and vary greatly depending on the region. In some areas, there are no emergency services available at all. In other areas, there may be a limited number of ambulances and medical personnel. To call for an ambulance, it is best to contact the local police station or hospital. In some areas, it may also be possible to call a private ambulance service," explained one digital nomad living in Congo.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"The capital city of Kinshasa is home to some of the best medical specialists in Congo. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Lubumbashi, Goma, and Mbuji-Mayi. Additionally, the cities of Kisangani, Kananga, and Bukavu are known for their excellent medical care," explained one digital nomad living in Congo.
Are common prescription medications available in Congo?
"Prescription medications are available in Congo, although the availability and quality of medications may vary depending on the region. Many medications are imported from other countries, and some medications may be counterfeit or of poor quality. In addition, some medications may be difficult to find due to limited supply or lack of access to pharmacies. It is important to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before taking any medications in Congo," explained one expat living in Congo.
Get Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Congo?
"The quality of medical facilities and medical care in Congo varies greatly depending on the region. In some areas, medical facilities are limited and medical care is inadequate. In other areas, medical facilities are more advanced and medical care is of a higher quality. In general, access to medical care is limited and the quality of care is not always up to international standards," said one member in Congo.
As a foreigner living in Congo, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Congo have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the region, but generally the public healthcare system is underfunded and understaffed, leading to long wait times and limited access to specialized care. In addition, the cost of medications and treatments can be prohibitively expensive for many people," said a member in Congo.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Congo if they have access to public healthcare in Congo. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Congo. Many healthcare facilities have been overwhelmed by the influx of patients, leading to long wait times and limited access to medical care. The lack of resources and personnel has also made it difficult for healthcare workers to provide adequate care. Additionally, the lack of access to testing and treatment has made it difficult to contain the spread of the virus. Despite these challenges, healthcare workers have continued to work tirelessly to provide care to those in need," remarked one member in Congo.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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.
AGS Worldwide Movers can move you to and from anywhere in the world.
Get Quote
Congo Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Congo on our Congo forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in Congo by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Congo.
Digital Nomads in Congo offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Congo.