Health Insurance in Pakistan, Asia

Information expatriation

Capital City: Islamabad
Total area: 796,095 km2
Population: 163,579,000 (2008)
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time Zones by Country
Calling Code: +92 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikepedia Pakistan

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:

·      Pakistan has a mix of public and private healthcare with the goal of universal health coverage.

·      The public system includes primary care facilities, district hospitals, and specialized teaching hospitals run by provincial or federal governments.

·      It focuses on primary care and maternal/child health but infrastructure varies significantly between urban and rural areas.

·      About 25-30% rely on public services, while most utilize private providers through direct payment or voluntary health insurance.

·      Combined government spending on health is only about 2.6% of GDP which is low for the region.

·      Private sector includes small clinics, hospitals, and medical colleges/universities in major cities.

·      Key issues include infectious diseases, malnutrition, limited access to healthcare in remote locations.

·      Multiple reforms have aimed to strengthen the public system and increase health insurance coverage over time.

·      In summary, Pakistan's system is a work in progress, combining under-resourced public primary care with extensive private providers and a goal of expanding universal access through community-based insurance schemes. Quality and access varies significantly nationwide.

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

·      Quality and access varies greatly between urban/rural areas. Consider private clinics/hospitals in major cities for quality care.

·      Purchase comprehensive international health insurance that provides coverage anywhere in Pakistan. The public system has significant limitations.

·      Bring needed prescription medications as availability may be limited outside major urban centers.

·      Higher risks exist for infectious diseases depending on location. Follow standard hygiene/prevention protocols carefully.

·      Rural infrastructure limitations mean self-evacuation planning may be prudent for remoteness emergencies.

·      Mental health support options have more limited availability compared to physical healthcare.

·      Learn basic Urdu/regional language phrases to assist with interactions, especially rurally.

·      Register with your home country's embassy and know assistance/evacuation processes if required.

·      Rural road safety differs substantially from international standards in some areas. Take precautions.

·      With advance preparation and reliable health coverage, expats can access reasonable care options across most of Pakistan while minding the limitations of the system. Vigilance is important.