Understanding the Health System in Botswana

Botswana has a public healthcare system that provides free or low-cost medical care to citizens and permanent residents. The public healthcare system is called the Botswana National Health Service (BNHS). Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Botswana, however, they are not eligible for free or low-cost medical care. Public hospitals in Botswana are generally not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery, as they are often overcrowded and understaffed.

Botswana's Private Healthcare System

Botswana also has a private healthcare system that provides more comprehensive medical care than the public system. Private hospitals in Botswana are generally well-equipped and staffed, and are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Expats primarily use private hospitals, as they are not eligible for free or low-cost medical care through the public system. Private medical care in Botswana is generally more expensive than in other countries, and expats typically use specialized expat health insurance providers to cover their medical costs.

Botswana's Top Hospitals

The following are some of the most well-known hospitals in Botswana:

• Princess Marina Hospital (public, Gaborone)
• Bokamoso Private Hospital (private, Gaborone)
• Lobatse Hospital (public, Lobatse)
• Molepolole Hospital (public, Molepolole)
• Ngami Private Hospital (private, Maun)
• Sebitoli Hospital (public, Francistown)
• Kanye Mission Hospital (public, Kanye)
• Maun Private Hospital (private, Maun)

Health Insurance Companies in Botswana

The most popular private health insurers in Botswana are Sanlam, Discovery Health, and Momentum Health. These companies provide health insurance plans for individuals, families, and businesses. Expats and digital nomads typically use specialized expat health insurance providers to cover their medical costs.

Insider Tips from Expats in Botswana: How to Navigate the Health System

"Botswana has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a range of medical services to its citizens. Primary healthcare is provided through a network of health centers and clinics, while specialized care is available at district and referral hospitals. The government provides free healthcare to all citizens, including vaccinations, antenatal care, and HIV/AIDS treatment. Private healthcare is also available, with a range of private hospitals and clinics offering a variety of services. Botswana also has a number of specialized medical facilities, such as the Botswana-Baylor Children's Clinical Centre of Excellence, which provides pediatric care," commented one member living in Botswana.

"Botswana has a public healthcare system that provides a range of services, including primary care, hospital care, and specialist services. The quality of public healthcare in Botswana is generally good, with a focus on preventive care and health promotion. Foreign residents in Botswana have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Botswana can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats may also choose to use private healthcare services, which are available in Botswana," commented one member living in Botswana.