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Expat Exchange - How to Navigate the Health System in Libya
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How to Navigate the Health System in Libya

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Summary: Learn about the health system in Libya: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Libya.

Libya's healthcare system is composed of both public and private healthcare options. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for Libyan citizens. The public healthcare system is known as the National Health System (NHS). Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Libya, however, it is not used by many foreigners. People generally do not recommend using public hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Libya are often overcrowded and lack the necessary resources and equipment.

Libya's Private Healthcare System

Libya's private healthcare system is composed of private hospitals and clinics that are funded by private companies and individuals. Private healthcare is more expensive than public healthcare, but it is often of higher quality. Expats primarily use private hospitals, as they are more reliable and have better resources and equipment. People generally recommend using private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in Libya are often well-equipped and have a higher standard of care than public hospitals.

Libya's Top Hospitals

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

  • Tripoli Medical Center (private hospital, located in Tripoli)
  • Al-Khadra Hospital (public hospital, located in Tripoli)
  • Al-Jalaa Hospital (public hospital, located in Benghazi)
  • Al-Hilal Hospital (public hospital, located in Benghazi)
  • Al-Khamis Hospital (public hospital, located in Benghazi)
  • Al-Jalaa Hospital (public hospital, located in Misrata)
  • Al-Khamis Hospital (public hospital, located in Misrata)
  • Al-Hilal Hospital (public hospital, located in Misrata)
  • Al-Khadra Hospital (public hospital, located in Misrata)
  • Al-Khadra Hospital (public hospital, located in Sabha)
  • Al-Hilal Hospital (public hospital, located in Sabha)
  • Al-Khamis Hospital (public hospital, located in Sabha)
  • Al-Khadra Hospital (public hospital, located in Zawiya)
  • Al-Hilal Hospital (public hospital, located in Zawiya)
  • Al-Khamis Hospital (public hospital, located in Zawiya)

Health Insurance Companies in Libya

The most popular private health insurers in Libya are Libyana, Al-Madar, and Al-Buraq. These companies provide health insurance coverage for Libyan citizens and expats. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

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

"Medical services in Libya are generally limited due to the ongoing conflict and lack of resources. The country has a shortage of medical personnel and supplies, and many hospitals and clinics lack basic equipment and medicines. Access to healthcare is also limited in rural areas, and many people are unable to afford the cost of medical care. Despite these challenges, the Libyan government has made efforts to improve access to healthcare, including providing free healthcare to those in need," commented one member living in Libya.

"Healthcare services in Libya are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a lower standard than in other countries. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Libya typically use private healthcare services, as they are more reliable and of a higher quality. However, some expats may use the public healthcare system if they are unable to access private services," commented one member living in Libya.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

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