Health Insurance in Ghana, Africa
Information expatriation
Capital City: Accra
Total area: 238,533 km2
Population: 23,478,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +233 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:
· Ghana has a mixed public-private healthcare system. Spending is around 5.4% of GDP, with per capita spending at $78.
· The system is decentralized, with multiple public and private providers. The Ministry of Health oversees policy and planning.
· Public healthcare is provided through primary care centers and district hospitals run by the Ghana Health Service. Access to public facilities depends on ability to pay.
· Around 45% of Ghanaians have private or National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) coverage. NHIS provides basic care for about 5% premiums.
· Out-of-pocket payments account for over 50% of healthcare spending. High costs prevent access for many lower-income groups.
· There is a severe shortage of doctors, nurses and facilities, especially in rural areas. Doctor to patient ratio is around 1:11,000.
· Ghana faces challenges of brain drain, inadequate funding, uneven infrastructure and supply chain issues impacting services.
· Maternal and infant mortality rates have declined but remain high compared to developed nations.
· Life expectancy increased to around 64 years but non-communicable diseases are a growing challenge.
Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:
· Obtain private international medical insurance before arriving. Public facilities have limitations and accidents/illnesses can be expensive without coverage.
· Check if your policy covers medical evacuation as well, as higher level care options are limited in Ghana. Have an evacuation plan.
· Try to live near major cities like Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi which have better equipped private medical facilities and hospitals.
· Consider signing up for the National Health Insurance Scheme for access to public clinics/pharmacies. But coverages are basic.
· Make sure medications and supplies you regularly need are available or bring from home, as shortages are common.
· Water quality can be poor - only drink bottled water and avoid ice in drinks. Consume freshly cooked hot foods.
· Air quality issues in urban areas can negatively impact respiratory/cardiovascular health over long periods.
· Road traffic accidents are a big risk - ensure vehicle meets safety standards and wears seatbelt.
· Medical evacuations, even for routine issues, may be required if conditions are not optimally controlled.
· Learn basic medical translations for symptoms, conditions in the local language/dialects for rural/coastal regions.