Healthcare & Health Insurance in Egypt
Summary: Digital Nomads in Egypt share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in Egypt, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.
What are healthcare services like in Egypt?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Egypt, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Egypt are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a lower standard than private healthcare. Foreign residents in Egypt have access to the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Egypt can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, they may need to obtain a health insurance policy to cover any additional costs," explained one digital nomad living in Egypt.
"Get recommendations for doctors from other expats. Meet them, check them out and see if you like them or not. Most doctors for expats will speak good English, but some doctors in Egypt are pretty arrogant and it may make for a more difficult situation when it comes to getting information out of him/her. Find one you like, get his/her phone number (mobile-cell number) and use it when needed as most doctors do not hire receptionists that speak English well enough to make appts for you," said one member in Cairo.
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What is the quality of medical care in Egypt like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Egypt, they replied:
"Egypt has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. The country has a network of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a range of medical services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency care. The public healthcare system is largely free, while private healthcare is available at a cost. Egypt also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer treatment centers, fertility clinics, and mental health facilities. In addition, Egypt has a number of medical universities and research centers that are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and providing quality healthcare," explained one expat living in Egypt.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Egypt?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Egypt can be expensive, depending on the type of care and coverage needed. Private healthcare is generally more expensive than public healthcare, and health insurance plans can vary in cost depending on the type of coverage and the provider. In general, health insurance plans in Egypt tend to be more expensive than in other countries, and the cost of medical care can be high. However, the government does provide some subsidies for healthcare, which can help to reduce the cost of care for those who qualify," wrote one digital nomad living in Egypt.
What are emergency services like in Egypt?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Egypt wrote:
"I only use private hospitals and in general they are fine. The one closest to me has a good ER that I've used on occasion. I have had operations in Egypt. I've been in one ICU once, and I've survived them all. I don't live in America. I don't have insurance. The cost of all of this is extremely affordable. You have to sacrifice in some areas to afford it as well as it is here," remarked one member in Cairo.
"Emergency services in Egypt are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial the national emergency number, 112. This number is toll-free and can be dialed from any phone, including landlines and mobile phones. The operator will then dispatch an ambulance to the location of the emergency," explained one expat living in Egypt.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Cairo is home to some of the best medical specialists in Egypt, with many of the country's top hospitals and clinics located in the city. Alexandria is also a great place to find medical specialists, with a number of renowned hospitals and clinics located in the city. Other cities in Egypt with a good selection of medical specialists include Giza, Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Luxor. Additionally, many of the country's top medical universities, such as Cairo University and Ain Shams University, are located in Egypt, providing access to a wide range of medical specialists," explained one expat living in Egypt.
Are common prescription medications available in Egypt?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Egypt. Pharmacies in Egypt are well-stocked with a wide variety of medications, including both generic and brand-name drugs. Many of the medications available in Egypt are imported from other countries, such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and India. In addition, some medications are produced locally in Egypt. It is important to note that some medications may require a prescription from a doctor in order to be purchased," remarked one member in Egypt.
"Most meds are available at the pharmacy and the pharmacists have studied almost as long as doctors, so they can prescribe meds for your case if you can describe what is wrong with you. Good pain killers are difficult if not impossible to get in Egypt. Things like Prozac and sleeping aids are pretty much accessible without prescriptions - especially from small local neighborhood pharmacies. The larger chain pharmacies are more difficult to get things from that are watched at all. ," explained one expat living in Cairo, Egypt.
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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Egypt?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Egypt are generally of a good standard. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers providing quality care. The government has invested heavily in the healthcare sector, and there are a number of highly-trained medical professionals available to provide care. In addition, the cost of medical care in Egypt is relatively low compared to other countries in the region," explained one digital nomad living in Egypt.
As a foreigner living in Egypt, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Egypt have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the facility, but generally speaking, public healthcare in Egypt is of a lower standard than private healthcare. The public healthcare system is often overcrowded and underfunded, and the quality of care can be inconsistent. However, the cost of public healthcare is much lower than private healthcare, making it an attractive option for those on a budget," said one member in Egypt.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Egypt if they have access to public healthcare in Egypt. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Egypt. The government has implemented strict measures to contain the spread of the virus, including the closure of schools, universities, and public places. Hospitals have been overwhelmed with patients, leading to long waiting times and a shortage of medical supplies. The government has also implemented a nationwide curfew and a ban on public gatherings, which has made it difficult for people to access medical care. Despite these challenges, the healthcare system in Egypt has been able to provide adequate care to those in need. Doctors and nurses have worked tirelessly to provide the best care possible, and the government has provided financial support to those affected by the pandemic," said one member in Egypt.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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Digital Nomads in Egypt offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Egypt.