Understanding the Health System in Cambodia

Cambodia's healthcare system is comprised of both public and private healthcare options. The public healthcare system is provided by the Ministry of Health and is free for Cambodian citizens. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Cambodia, however, it is not typically used by foreigners. Public hospitals are not recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as the quality of care is not as high as private hospitals. Public hospitals in Cambodia are often overcrowded and lack the necessary medical equipment and supplies.

Cambodia's Private Healthcare System

Cambodia's private healthcare system is more expensive than the public system, but the quality of care is much higher. Expats primarily use private hospitals, as they are more reliable and have better medical equipment and supplies. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are better equipped to handle these types of cases. Private hospitals in Cambodia are typically clean and well-maintained, and the staff is usually well-trained.

Cambodia's Top Hospitals

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

• Calmette Hospital (public, Phnom Penh)
• Kirirom National Referral Hospital (public, Phnom Penh)
• Koh Kong Provincial Hospital (public, Koh Kong)
• Royal Rattanak Hospital (private, Phnom Penh)
• Kantha Bopha Children's Hospital (private, Phnom Penh)
• International SOS (private, Phnom Penh)
• Kirirom Eye Hospital (private, Phnom Penh)

Health Insurance Companies in Cambodia

The most popular private health insurers in Cambodia are AIA, Manulife, and Prudential. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

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

"Cambodia has a limited number of medical facilities and services, with most of the country's medical care being provided by private clinics and hospitals. The quality of medical care varies greatly, with some facilities providing excellent care while others are inadequate. The availability of medicines and medical supplies is also limited, and many medications are not available in the country. In addition, the cost of medical care is often high, making it difficult for many people to access the care they need," commented one member living in Cambodia.

"Specifically, the International Clinics are preferred. CT Clinic can be good or not so good. My doctor here is Russian. Here, 4 years of college and a score of 50% on the final exam qualifies a Cambodian to become a doctor. Best to avoid of course," commented one expat living in Sihanoukville, Cambodia.

"Cambodia has a public healthcare system that provides basic healthcare services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Cambodia is generally considered to be low, with limited access to medical equipment and supplies. Foreign residents in Cambodia have access to the public healthcare system, but the quality of care is not as high as in other countries. Expats in Cambodia often use private healthcare services, which are more expensive but offer better quality care. Private healthcare services are available in major cities, such as Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, and are often used by expats who are not covered by public healthcare," mentioned one expat living in Cambodia.