Healthcare & Health Insurance in Ghana
Summary: Digital Nomads in Ghana share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in Ghana, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.
What are healthcare services like in Ghana?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Ghana, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Ghana are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens of Ghana. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a good standard. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, however, they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Ghana typically use the private healthcare system, which is more expensive but offers a higher quality of care," explained one digital nomad living in Ghana.
Get Quote
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote
What is the quality of medical care in Ghana like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Ghana, they replied:
"Ghana has a public health system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country also has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer more specialized care. The quality of medical services in Ghana varies depending on the facility, but overall the country has a good standard of healthcare. The government has also implemented a number of initiatives to improve access to healthcare, such as the National Health Insurance Scheme, which provides free or subsidized healthcare to those who cannot afford it," said one member in Ghana.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Ghana?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Ghana can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). The cost of medical care and health insurance can be prohibitive for many people, especially those living in rural areas. Additionally, the quality of healthcare services can vary greatly, with some facilities being better equipped than others. As a result, many people in Ghana are unable to access the healthcare they need due to the cost," said a member in Ghana.
What are emergency services like in Ghana?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Ghana wrote:
"In Ghana, emergency services are available to provide medical assistance and other emergency services. To call for an ambulance, one can dial the emergency number 112 or 999. The Ghana National Ambulance Service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to respond to medical emergencies. The service is free of charge and is staffed by trained medical personnel. In addition, the Ghana Fire Service is available to respond to fire emergencies. The emergency number for the fire service is 191," wrote one digital nomad living in Ghana.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Accra, the capital of Ghana, is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country. Kumasi, the second largest city in Ghana, is also known for its excellent selection of medical specialists. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Takoradi, Tamale, and Sunyani. Additionally, the coastal region of Ghana, including cities such as Cape Coast, Elmina, and Sekondi-Takoradi, is known for its excellent medical specialists," explained one digital nomad living in Ghana.
Are common prescription medications available in Ghana?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Ghana. Most medications are available through pharmacies, although some may require a prescription from a doctor. The medications available in Ghana are generally the same as those available in other countries, although the availability of certain medications may vary. In addition, some medications may be available in generic form, which can be more affordable than the brand-name versions," said a member in Ghana.
Get Quote
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Ghana?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Ghana are generally of a good quality. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. The government has also invested in improving the quality of healthcare in the country, with initiatives such as the National Health Insurance Scheme, which provides access to quality healthcare for all citizens. In addition, there are a number of private healthcare providers that offer high-quality medical services," said one digital nomad in Ghana.
As a foreigner living in Ghana, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Ghana have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the region, but generally the public healthcare system is well-equipped and staffed with experienced professionals. The cost of care is usually quite affordable, and there are a variety of services available, including primary care, emergency care, and specialist care. In addition, there are a number of private healthcare facilities that offer more comprehensive services," explained one expat living in Ghana.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Ghana if they have access to public healthcare in Ghana. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Ghana. Many healthcare facilities have had to reduce their services due to the lack of resources and staff. The government has implemented various measures to help contain the spread of the virus, such as the closure of schools and public places, and the enforcement of social distancing. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system has been overwhelmed by the influx of patients seeking treatment for COVID-19. Many healthcare workers have been overworked and underpaid, and there have been reports of shortages of medical supplies and equipment. The government has also implemented a free testing and treatment program for those who cannot afford to pay for medical care. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system in Ghana is still struggling to cope with the pandemic," remarked one member in Ghana.
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.
Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote
Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote
Ghana Forum
Talk with other digital nomads and expats in Ghana on our Ghana forum - meet people, get advice and help others.
Contribute
Help others in Ghana by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Ghana.
Digital Nomads in Ghana offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Ghana.