Insider's Guide to the Health System in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe's healthcare system is composed of both public and private healthcare options. The public healthcare system is called the Ministry of Health and Child Care and is funded by the government. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Zimbabwe, 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.

Zimbabwe's Public Healthcare System

Zimbabwe's public healthcare system is funded by the government and is called the Ministry of Health and Child Care. It provides basic healthcare services to citizens at a low cost. However, the quality of care is not as high as private hospitals, and public hospitals are not recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.

Zimbabwe's Private Healthcare System

Zimbabwe's private healthcare system is composed of private hospitals and clinics that provide higher quality care than public hospitals. Expats primarily use private hospitals, as they are more reliable and offer better quality care. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.

Zimbabwe's Top Hospitals

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

• Parirenyatwa Hospital (public, Harare)
• Mater Dei Hospital (private, Bulawayo)
• Harare Central Hospital (public, Harare)
• Avenues Clinic (private, Harare)
• UZ Children's Hospital (public, Harare)
• St Anne's Hospital (private, Harare)

Health Insurance Companies in Zimbabwe

The most popular private health insurers in Zimbabwe are Cimas, Zimnat, and Old Mutual. These companies provide health insurance to citizens and expats alike. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

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

"Medical services in Zimbabwe are generally limited due to a lack of resources and funding. The country has a shortage of medical personnel, and many hospitals and clinics lack basic medical supplies and equipment. Despite these challenges, the government has made efforts to improve access to healthcare, including providing free healthcare for pregnant women and children under five. Additionally, the government has implemented a number of initiatives to improve the quality of healthcare, such as training more medical personnel and providing better access to medicines," commented one member living in Zimbabwe.

"Healthcare services in Zimbabwe 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 private healthcare. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, but they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Zimbabwe typically use private healthcare services, as they are more reliable and of a higher quality. However, some expats may choose to use the public healthcare system if they are unable to afford private healthcare," commented one member living in Zimbabwe.