Health Insurance in Zimbabwe, Africa

Information expatriation

Capital City: Harare
Total area: 390,757 km2
Population: 13,349,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +263 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikipedia Zimbabwe

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:

·      Zimbabwe has a public healthcare sector that aims to provide universal care but faces significant economic challenges.

·      It operates alongside a growing private healthcare system utilized by those who can afford to pay out-of-pocket.

·      Public care is provided by government clinics, health centers and hospitals managed by the Ministry of Health.

·      Services focus on primary care but infrastructure is limited in rural areas and hospitals often struggle with shortages of drugs, supplies and personnel.

·      Around 70% of Zimbabweans rely solely on public healthcare, which is low-cost but quality and access varies greatly.

·      Private hospitals, doctors and insurance provide an alternative but costs are high for most citizens living in poverty.

·      Zimbabwe has a statutory national health insurance plan but coverage is low, mainly benefiting civil servants and formal workers.

·      Key health issues include HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and high rates of child/maternal mortality.

·      Life expectancy averages around 64 years given limited resources and public health challenges.

·      The healthcare system remains underfunded due to Zimbabwe's long economic crisis. Reforms aim to bridge public and private sectors.

·      So in summary, Zimbabwe's public healthcare strives for universal primary care but faces significant resource constraints in practice. Private options exist for those who can afford to pay. Access and quality of care varies.

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

·      Purchase international medical evacuation insurance that also covers costs of treatment. Public services are limited.

·      Bring adequate supplies of any prescription medications needed as shortages are common.

·      Get up-to-date with all recommended vaccinations, especially for diseases like HIV, malaria, typhoid etc.

·      Water safety is critical - only consume bottled, boiled or treated water and thoroughly cook food.

·      Healthcare quality varies greatly between rural and urban areas. Consider proximity to major hospitals.

·      Private healthcare is an option but expensive without insurance. Monitor costs closely.

·      Be aware tropical diseases like Zika and dangers from wildlife or road accidents.

·      Register address with embassy in case an emergency evacuation is needed abroad.

·      Lack of infrastructure in rural places means advanced care often requires travel or overseas referral.

·      Adjustment challenges like isolation could impact mental wellbeing - have a support system.

·      Learn some basic medical Shona/English to assist communication with providers as needed.