Health Insurance in Yemen, Asia
Information expatriation
Capital City: Sanaá
Total area: 527,968 km2
Population: 22,389,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time Zones by Country
Calling Code: +967 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:
· Yemen has a mixed public-private healthcare system that is decentralized and fragmented. It has been deteriorating severely due to ongoing conflict and economic/political instability.
· Only about half the population has access to basic healthcare services. Infrastructure, supplies and medical professionals are lacking, especially in rural areas.
· There is no universal healthcare program. An estimated 75-80% of Yemenis do not have health insurance coverage. People pay direct out-of-pocket fees.
· Public services are provided by the Ministry of Public Health and Population in government facilities. These are underfunded and unable to meet demands.
· Private practices and NGOs fill some gaps but overall access, quality and availability of even essential care is low across the country.
· Epidemics of preventable diseases like cholera, diphtheria and measles have broken out due to weaknesses in sanitation, immunization and healthcare systems.
· Shortages of medicines, equipment, electricity and medical professionals plague the system. Ongoing conflict has destroyed much infrastructure.
· Life expectancy is relatively low at around 64 years and maternal/child mortality rates are high compared to global standards.
· The long-term humanitarian crisis has made health sector reform and improvement extremely challenging for Yemen's unstable government.
· So in summary, Yemen's healthcare system struggles to serve its population due to lack of resources, funding, stability and ongoing humanitarian crises affecting the country. Access to basic care remains limited.
Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:
· Medical evacuation insurance is essential. Local healthcare is limited and international standard care may not be available.
· Up-to-date routine vaccines are a must. Also consider risks of diseases like malaria, typhoid, meningococcal meningitis, etc.
· Water and food safety precautions are critical. Only drink bottled water and be selective about food from street vendors.
· Air pollution is a concern, especially in urban areas. This may impact those with respiratory conditions.
· Availability of medications can be unreliable. Bring adequate supplies of any regular medications.
· Healthcare infrastructure has been degraded by conflict. Major hospitals may be damaged or lack specialists/equipment.
· Security situations can limit access to medical facilities even in emergencies. Plan accordingly.
· Local public health issues like cholera outbreaks remain a risk. Follow any security advisories.
· Consider medical evacuation plans out of Yemen if long-term care is needed. The conflict limits internal travel as well.
· Stress and mental health are concerns given the instability and uncertainties of living in a war zone.
· Overall, expats will need to take extensive precautions and be prepared to medical needs without relying on the local Yemeni health system. High-quality international medical insurance is a must.