Healthcare & Health Insurance in Kenya
Summary: Digital Nomads in Kenya share their experiences with health insurance, healthcare in Kenya, local hospitals and specialists, quality of medical care and more.
What are healthcare services like in Kenya?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Kenya, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Kenya are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all Kenyan 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 Kenya have access to the public healthcare system, but they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Kenya typically use private healthcare services, as they are more reliable and of a higher quality. However, some expats may choose to use the public healthcare system if they are unable to afford private healthcare," explained one person living in Kenya.
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What is the quality of medical care in Kenya like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Kenya, they replied:
"Kenya has a wide range of medical services available to its citizens. The country has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and health centers that provide a variety of medical services, including primary care, emergency care, and specialized care. The government also provides free or subsidized health care services to those who cannot afford to pay for them. Additionally, there are a number of international organizations and NGOs that provide medical services in Kenya, such as the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the Red Cross," said a member in Kenya.
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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kenya?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Kenya can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by a health insurance plan. The cost of medical care in Kenya is often higher than in other countries, and the cost of health insurance can be prohibitive for many people. Additionally, the quality of healthcare in Kenya is often lower than in other countries, making it difficult for people to access the care they need. As a result, many people in Kenya are unable to access the healthcare they need due to the high cost," remarked one member in Kenya.
What are emergency services like in Kenya?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Kenya wrote:
"Emergency services in Kenya are provided by the Kenya Red Cross Society and the Kenya National Ambulance Service. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the emergency number 999 or 112 from any phone. The Kenya Red Cross Society also provides a free ambulance service in some areas. You can contact them directly for more information," remarked one member in Kenya.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Kenya's capital city, Nairobi, is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country. Other cities with a wide selection of medical specialists include Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret. Additionally, the coastal region of Kenya is known for its excellent medical facilities and specialists," said a member in Kenya.
Are common prescription medications available in Kenya?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Kenya. Most medications are available through pharmacies, although some may require a prescription from a doctor. The availability of certain medications may vary depending on the region. In addition, some medications may be more expensive in Kenya than in other countries," explained one expat living in Kenya.
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GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
GeoBlue is a trusted leader in international health insurance. Wherever your destination, GeoBlue can keep you and your family covered with the right health insurance. Get a GeoBlue Quote Today!
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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Kenya?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Kenya vary in quality. Generally, the quality of medical care in Kenya is considered to be adequate, although there are some areas where the quality of care is lacking. In urban areas, medical facilities are often well-equipped and staffed with qualified medical professionals. However, in rural areas, access to medical care is often limited and the quality of care is not always up to the same standards as in urban areas. Additionally, the cost of medical care in Kenya can be prohibitively expensive for many people, making it difficult for them to access the care they need," explained one digital nomad living in Kenya.
As a foreigner living in Kenya, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Kenya have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the facility, but generally the public healthcare system is underfunded and understaffed, leading to long wait times and limited resources. However, there are some public hospitals and clinics that provide good quality care. Additionally, there are private healthcare facilities that offer more comprehensive services," said one digital nomad in Kenya.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Kenya if they have access to public healthcare in Kenya. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"They had better screening protocols at the beginning of the pandemic than the west. I think I may have gotten a false positive covid result (aling with many others!!) From a lab there..," wrote one digital nomad living in Nairobi, Kenya.
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Kenya. Many healthcare facilities have had to reduce their services due to the lack of resources and staff, leading to long wait times and limited access to care. Additionally, the cost of healthcare has increased, making it difficult for many people to access the care they need. The government has implemented various measures to help mitigate the impact of the pandemic, such as providing free testing and treatment for COVID-19, as well as providing financial support to healthcare facilities. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system in Kenya is still struggling to cope with the demands of the pandemic," said one foreigner in Kenya.
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 Kenya offer advice about healthcare, hospital visits, emergency rooms visits, finding a doctor and buying health insurance in Kenya.