Health Insurance in Guinea-Bissau, Africa
Information expatriation
Capital City: Bissau
Total area: 36,125 km2
Population: 1,695,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +245 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:
· Guinea-Bissau has a mixed public-private system that struggles with underfunding and a critical shortage of resources nationwide.
· Public health services are decentralized and managed by the Ministry of Public Health through regional health departments.
· Coverage is provided by sparse network of health centers, village health posts and several regional hospitals that are generally outdated.
· Significant user fees are charged for public facilities due to the low government spend on healthcare (~5% GDP).
· Around 80% of the population relies on traditional healers alongside limited public options due to costs and distance barriers.
· Private clinics exist but are few in number and centered in Bissau, denying access to remote areas.
· There is 1 doctor per over 20,000 people - healthcare workforce and infrastructure is severely lacking across the board.
· Maternal and child mortality rates are among the worst in the world due to lack of obstetric and paediatric services.
· Communicable diseases like malaria are highly prevalent due to poor sanitation, limited prevention programs.
Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:
· Purchase full comprehensive international medical evacuation insurance before arriving. Relying on local services could be risky.
· Limited public healthcare means most expats utilize the handful of private clinics exclusively, located mainly in Bissau.
· Ensure insurance provides nationwide coverage, as quality beyond major cities is extremely poor. Evacuation may be the only option for emergencies.
· Bring any necessary prescription medications rather than relying on the unstable supply in local pharmacies.
· Healthcare access will depend on speaking Portuguese, so learn basic terms. French also spoken.
· Drink only bottled water and avoid raw/undercooked foods due to risk of diarrhea/tropical diseases.
· Malaria is endemic - use proper protective nets, repellents, preventative meds as directed by a doctor.
· Road conditions are highly dangerous - have evacuation plan if driving long distances for care is required.
· Register with an international medical assistance service and nearby expatriate clinic for support navigating the system if needed.