Health Insurance in Myanmar, Asia

Information expatriation

Capital City: Naypyidaw
Total area: 676,578 km2
Population: 53,582,855 (2017)
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time Zones by Country
Calling Code: +95 XXX

Practical Information: 
Wikipedia Myanmar

Health insurance plans: 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:

·      Myanmar has a mixed public-private healthcare system that aims to provide universal coverage through government insurance schemes.

·      The government spends around 1.3% of GDP on public healthcare facilities like hospitals and clinics across the country.

·      However, infrastructure and medical staff are concentrated in major cities, leaving rural areas underserved.

·      Around 60% of the population relies on public facilities, while the remainder use private providers or pay out-of-pocket.

·      Quality of care varies significantly between public and private sectors due to funding and resource constraints.

·      Common health issues include communicable diseases, rural malnutrition, and a rising burden of chronic conditions.

·      Healthcare workforce shortages plague the entire system, especially in specialized areas.

·      Private healthcare in the form of hospitals, clinics and insurance plays a growing role but remains expensive for many.

·      International aid contributes to healthcare development initiatives focused on disease control and rural programs.

Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:

·      Purchase comprehensive international medical evacuation insurance. Public system quality varies significantly.

·      Register with an English-speaking doctor if living long-term in Yangon or Mandalay.

·      Rural clinics have severe shortages - research options and have a reliable evacuation plan for emergencies.

·      Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date including hepatitis A/B, typhoid, rabies and Japanese encephalitis.

·      Water safety - drink only bottled, boiled or treated water. Monitor food/ice preparation hygiene.

·      Mosquito-borne diseases like malaria and dengue are prevalent. Follow prevention protocols rigorously.

·      Monitor chronic conditions closely as managing them may be difficult, especially in remote areas.

·      Mental health services are limited. Consider international telehealth options if needed.

·      Import adequate prescription supplies as availability/quality locally is inconsistent.

·      Transportation constraints complicate evacuations from some rural regions. Learn basic medical Burmese.

·      Thorough preparation against infrastructure gaps and health risks is essential. International assistance programs can help fill some gaps.