Health Care in Arusha

The healthcare system in Arusha consists of both public and private facilities. While the public healthcare system is accessible to foreigners, many expats and digital nomads prefer to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries.

Tanzania's Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Tanzania is known as the National Health Service (NHS). It is used by both locals and foreigners, including expats and digital nomads. However, public hospitals in Arusha are often overcrowded and may lack the necessary equipment and resources for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. As a result, many people recommend using private hospitals for such cases. Private hospitals in Arusha typically offer better facilities, more specialized care, and shorter waiting times compared to public hospitals.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Arusha

Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Arusha include:

• Mount Meru Regional Referral Hospital (public) - located in the city center
• Arusha Lutheran Medical Centre (private) - located in the Ngarenaro area
• St. Elizabeth Hospital (private) - located in the Njiro area
• Arusha Medical Centre (private) - located in the city center
• Arusha Community Health Clinic (private) - located in the city center

In case of emergencies or specialized medical care, expats in Arusha may need to travel to nearby cities such as Moshi or Nairobi, Kenya, which is approximately 5 hours away by car.

Emergency Services in Arusha

There are ambulance services in Arusha, but they may not be as reliable or timely as those in more developed countries. To call for an ambulance, dial 112 or 114. However, it is important to note that there may be delays in response times due to traffic or other factors.

Health Insurance Companies in Arusha

Some popular private health insurance companies in Arusha include Jubilee Insurance, National Insurance Corporation (NIC), and Sanlam. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local companies or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers. It is essential to carefully research and compare different insurance options to find the best coverage for your needs while living in Arusha.