Understanding the Health System in Ghana
Summary: Learn about the health system in Ghana: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Ghana.
Ghana's healthcare system is composed of both public and private healthcare providers. The public healthcare system is called the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and is funded by the government. It provides access to basic healthcare services to Ghanaian citizens at a low cost. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Ghana, however, it is not typically used by foreigners. Public hospitals are not recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are often overcrowded and lack the necessary resources.
Ghana's Private Healthcare System
Ghana's private healthcare system is composed of private hospitals and clinics that provide medical services at a higher cost than the public system. Expats primarily use private hospitals, as they are better equipped and have more resources than public hospitals. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are better equipped to handle these cases. Private hospitals in Ghana are typically clean and well-maintained, and offer a higher quality of care than public hospitals.
Ghana's Top Hospitals
The following is a list of some of the most well-known hospitals in Ghana:
- Korle Bu Teaching Hospital (public, Accra)
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (public, Kumasi)
- 37 Military Hospital (public, Accra)
- Lapaz Community Hospital (private, Accra)
- Kokomlemle Polyclinic (private, Accra)
- Korle-Bu Neuropsychiatric Hospital (public, Accra)
- Korle-Bu Plastic Surgery and Burns Centre (public, Accra)
Health Insurance Companies in Ghana
The most popular private health insurers in Ghana are Star Assurance, Enterprise Insurance, and SIC Insurance. These companies provide health insurance coverage for individuals and families. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Ghana: How to Navigate the Health System
"Ghana has a public health system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country also has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer more specialized care. The quality of medical services in Ghana varies depending on the facility, but overall the country has a good standard of healthcare. The government has also implemented a number of initiatives to improve access to healthcare, such as the National Health Insurance Scheme, which provides free or subsidized healthcare to those who cannot afford it," commented one member living in Ghana.
"Healthcare services in Ghana are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens of Ghana. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a good standard. Foreign residents are able to access the public healthcare system, however, they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Ghana typically use the private healthcare system, which is more expensive but offers a higher quality of care," commented one member living in Ghana.
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.