Health Insurance in Gambia, Africa
Information expatriation
Capital City: Banjul
Total area: 11,295 km2
Population: 1,709,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +220 XXX
Practical Information:
Health Product: Travel Insurance and Health insurance
Health Insurance information and Sanitary Risk: World Health Map
BLOG: Expat Health insurance Information
Here is a brief description of the healthcare system in the country:
· Gambia has a mixed public-private system intended to provide universal coverage to all citizens and residents.
· In practice, access to medical care is constrained by limited facilities, equipment, supplies and qualified personnel nationwide.
· The public system operates primary healthcare centers, district-level hospitals and a main teaching hospital in Banjul. However, quality is inconsistent.
· Private practice plays a role but costs can still be prohibitive for many Gambians. Traditional healing persists as an affordable option.
· About 5% of GDP is spent on health, one of the lowest in West Africa. Aid organisations support public facilities.
· Common health issues include malaria, pneumonia, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, malnutrition and maternal/child health conditions.
· Medical training and systems development have been prioritised but considerable gaps remain vs international standards.
Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:
· Purchase comprehensive international medical evacuation insurance which includes air ambulance repatriation if needed.
· Consider registering with a private hospital in Banjul like Medical Research Council that meets higher standards.
· Bring adequate supplies of any prescription medications as availability is unreliable in local pharmacies.
· Seek all routine and high priority travel vaccinations before arrival due to disease risks.
· Monitor for malaria especially during rainy seasons and follow strict preventative measures.
· French or English widely understood but learn basic medical vocabulary in local languages if working rurally.
· Address any underlying conditions before relocating as options for serious care are limited.
· Strict hygiene, water safety and limiting uncooked foods/drinks are essential to avoid gastrointestinal issues.
· Have a reliable evacuation plan in place in case of medical emergencies beyond local capabilities.
· Stay aware of political stability as unrest could affect operations of private facilities or evacuation access.