Health Insurance in South Africa, Africa
Information expatriation
Capital City: Pretoria
Total area: 1,221,040 km2
Population: 47,850,700 (2007)
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +27 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:
· South Africa has both a public and private healthcare system. The public system is intended to provide universal care to all citizens.
· The public system is funded through general tax revenues and provides free primary care services at clinics and community health centers.
· It also operates public hospitals where patients can access inpatient and outpatient specialist services.
· Primary care serves as the first point of contact and gatekeeper to the public healthcare system. Referrals are required to see specialists.
· Around 17% of the population uses private healthcare which is funded through medical insurance programs and out-of-pocket payments. This provides access to private hospitals and practitioners.
· Key challenges facing the public system include inadequate funding, lack of infrastructure in underserved areas, shortage of healthcare workers and increasing burden of disease.
· Some of the major health issues include HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, non-communicable diseases, injuries and violence-related trauma.
· Reforms aim to strengthen primary care, modernize facilities, expand the roles of nurses/midwives and improve pharmaceutical access and supply chain management.
Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:
· Purchase comprehensive private medical insurance before arrival as the public system faces capacity issues. This provides coverage and faster access.
· Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date, especially for hepatitis A/B, typhoid, flu, rabies and others as required.
· Only drink bottled water and peel all fruits/veggies due to risks of gastrointestinal illness.
· Road safety risks exist given accidents and crime threats like hijackings. Drive defensively at all times.
· Air pollution, especially in major cities, may exacerbate conditions like asthma. Be prepared.
· Healthcare quality varies significantly between urban public/private facilities vs. rural clinics. Plan accordingly.
· Bring adequate supplies of prescription medications and copies of valid prescriptions.
· Monitor health impacts from lifestyle/social adjustments or stress of living abroad. Seek help as needed.
· Register with international medical insurance and a general physician upon arrival for treatment access.
· Security risks may vary by region - follow all safety precautions and travel advisories issued.
· Register location with your embassy in case emergency evacuation assistance is required.