Essential Guide to the Health System in Ethiopia

The healthcare system in Ethiopia is comprised of both public and private healthcare options. The public healthcare system is called the Ethiopian Health Insurance Agency (EHIA) and is available to all citizens and legal residents of Ethiopia. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Ethiopia, however, it is not commonly used by foreigners. Public hospitals are generally not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery, as the quality of care is not as high as private hospitals.

Ethiopia's Public Healthcare System

The Ethiopian Health Insurance Agency (EHIA) is the public healthcare system in Ethiopia. It is available to all citizens and legal residents of Ethiopia and provides access to basic healthcare services at a low cost. The cost of public healthcare in Ethiopia is relatively low, however, the quality of care is not as high as private healthcare.

Ethiopia's Private Healthcare System

Private healthcare in Ethiopia is more expensive than public healthcare, but the quality of care is generally higher. Expats primarily use private hospitals for medical care, as they are more likely to have English-speaking staff and better facilities. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as the quality of care is higher than public hospitals.

Ethiopia's Top Hospitals

The following is a list of some of the most well-known hospitals in Ethiopia:

• Black Lion Hospital (public, Addis Ababa)
• St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College (private, Addis Ababa)
• Gondar University Hospital (public, Gondar)
• Yekatit 12 Hospital (public, Addis Ababa)
• St. Peter's Specialized Hospital (private, Addis Ababa)
• St. Yared General Hospital (private, Addis Ababa)
• St. Raphael Hospital (private, Addis Ababa)
• St. Luke's Orthopedic Hospital (private, Addis Ababa)

Health Insurance Companies in Ethiopia

The most popular private health insurers in Ethiopia are Great Ethiopian Insurance Company, Ethiopian Insurance Corporation, and Ethiopian Reinsurance Company. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

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

"Medical services in Ethiopia are generally limited and of low quality. The country has a shortage of medical personnel, and many medical facilities lack basic equipment and supplies. The majority of medical care is provided by the government, but there are also some private clinics and hospitals. Access to medical care is often limited due to poverty and lack of transportation. Vaccination programs are available, but coverage is low. Mental health services are limited, and there is a lack of awareness about mental health issues," commented one member living in Ethiopia.

"Healthcare services in Ethiopia are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is largely funded by the government and is the primary source of healthcare for the majority of the population. The quality of public healthcare varies greatly, with some areas having better access to resources and better trained staff than others. Foreign residents do have access to the public healthcare system, although the quality of care may not be as high as in other countries. Expats in Ethiopia typically use the private healthcare system, which is more expensive but offers higher quality care," commented one member living in Ethiopia.