Health Care in Pretoria

The healthcare system in Pretoria, is a mix of public and private healthcare services. The public healthcare system, known as the National Health Insurance (NHI), is government-funded and available to all South African citizens and residents, while the private healthcare system is funded through private health insurance.

South Africa's Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in South Africa, the National Health Insurance (NHI), is used by both locals and foreigners. However, the quality of care in public hospitals varies, and for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, many people recommend using private hospitals. Public hospitals in Pretoria, like the Steve Biko Academic Hospital, are often crowded and under-resourced, leading to long waiting times. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system, but many choose to use private hospitals due to the higher standard of care. Private hospitals in Pretoria, such as the Netcare Pretoria East Hospital, offer state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of specialist services.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Pretoria

• Netcare Pretoria East Hospital - A private hospital located in Moreleta Park.
• Life Wilgers Hospital - A private hospital in Wilgers that specializes in cardiology.
• Mediclinic Kloof - A private hospital in Erasmuskloof known for its orthopedic department.
• Steve Biko Academic Hospital - A public hospital in Capital Park that offers a wide range of services.

In the event of an emergency or need for specialized care, expats in Pretoria often travel to Johannesburg, which is approximately an hour's drive away, to access hospitals like the Netcare Milpark Hospital.

Emergency Services in Pretoria

Yes, there are ambulance services in Pretoria. In case of an emergency, you can dial 10177 to call for an ambulance. However, response times can vary depending on the location and time of day, and there can sometimes be delays.

Health Insurance Companies in Pretoria

Some of the most popular private health insurers in Pretoria include Discovery Health, Momentum Health, and Medshield. These companies offer a range of plans to suit different needs and budgets. While some expats and digital nomads choose to use these local companies, many opt for specialized expat health insurance providers that offer coverage for medical treatment both in South Africa and abroad.