Essential Guide to the Health System in Oman
Summary: Familiarize yourself with the health system in Oman. Understand its usage options and constraints for those who choose to move to and reside there, including expats, digital nomads, and retirees.
Oman has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides both public and private healthcare options. The public healthcare system is provided by the Ministry of Health and is free for Omani citizens. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Oman, but they are required to pay for the services. The public healthcare system is used by both locals and foreigners, but it is not recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Oman are generally well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals.
Oman's Private Healthcare System
Oman also has a private healthcare system that is used primarily by expats and digital nomads. Private healthcare is more expensive than public healthcare, but it is generally of a higher quality. Private hospitals in Oman are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals, and they are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.
Oman's Top Hospitals
Oman has several well-known hospitals, including:
- Royal Hospital (public) in Muscat
- Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (public) in Muscat
- Nizwa Hospital (public) in Nizwa
- Al Nahdha Hospital (private) in Muscat
- Badr Al Samaa Hospital (private) in Muscat
- Al Raffah Hospital (private) in Muscat
- Al Hayat International Hospital (private) in Muscat
- Al Khoula Hospital (private) in Muscat
Health Insurance Companies in Oman
The most popular private health insurers in Oman are Oman Insurance Company, Oman United Insurance Company, and National Health Insurance Company. These companies provide health insurance plans for both locals and expats. Expats typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Oman: How to Navigate the Health System
"Oman offers a wide range of medical services, including primary care, specialist care, and emergency services. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. The government also provides free or subsidized health care for citizens and expatriates. In addition, Oman has a number of private health care providers that offer a range of services, including preventive care, diagnostics, and treatments. The country also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription and over-the-counter medications," commented one member living in Oman.
"Oman offers a comprehensive healthcare system, with both public and private services available. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides free or low-cost services to citizens and legal residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, although they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Oman can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Private healthcare is also available in Oman, and many expats opt to use private services due to the higher quality of care and shorter waiting times," commented one member living in Oman.
About the Author
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.
Additional Information:
- Oman Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Oman
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Oman
- Best Places to Live in Oman
- Guide to Real Estate in Oman
- Pros & Cons of Living in Oman
- Cost of Living in Oman
- 5 Tips For Living in Oman
- 2024 Guide to Living in Oman
- Pros and Cons of Living in Oman 2024