Health Insurance in Sao Tome and Principe, Africa

Information expatriation

Capital City:São Tomé
Total area: 964 km2
Population: 158,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +239 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikipedia São Tomé and Príncipe

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:

·      Sao Tome and Principe has a centralized public healthcare system aimed at providing universal coverage to all citizens.

·      It is primarily funded through the national budget with supplemental donor assistance.

·      Primary care is delivered through public health centers and small district hospitals on each main island.

·      For advanced treatment, patients are referred to larger hospitals in the capital city of Sao Tome or occasionally overseas.

·      Services offered include preventative care, outpatient visits, basic surgeries, maternity services, and treatment of common illnesses/injuries.

·      Healthcare resources are limited and there is a shortage of specialized medical professionals and equipment.

·      Infant and maternal mortality rates remain higher than global averages due to accessibility and quality issues.

·      Leading health problems reflect a mix of infectious diseases and non-communicable illness.

·      The Sao Tome government works to improve funding, facilities and expand healthcare access nationwide.

·      Private medical practices and insurance play a very limited complementary role at this stage.

·      So in summary, Sao Tome and Principe is focused on developing its public primary healthcare system but faces significant resource constraints. Universal coverage has yet to be achieved.

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

·      Access public primary care but quality and access varies, especially in rural areas. Bring supplemental insurance.

·      Evacuation coverage is essential as advanced treatment often requires travel overseas.

·      Practice strict water/food safety. Boil or treat water from untrusted sources.

·      Consider risks of malaria, dengue, Zika and other tropical diseases. Take necessary precautions.

·      Bring adequate supplies of any prescription medications rather than relying on availability.

·      Monitor chronic conditions carefully and have a contingency plan for any potential exacerbations.

·      Cultural and language barriers may affect healthcare experiences. Consider translation assistance.

·      Maternal healthcare access is limited. Prepare well in advance for any pregnancy/birth needs.

·      Mental health support options are very limited. Develop strong personal support network.

·      Physical safety concerns exist in some areas due to poverty and instability issues.

·      Thorough preventative care measures, comprehensive medical evacuation insurance and contingency plans are very important given constraints within the local public health system and remoteness.