Insider's Guide to the Health System in Jordan
Summary: Learn about the health system in Jordan: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Jordan.
Jordan has a public and private healthcare system, both of which are available to foreigners. The public healthcare system is called the Jordan Health Insurance Corporation (JHIC) and is funded by the government. It provides basic medical care at a low cost, and is used by many Jordanians. Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system, but it is not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery. Public hospitals in Jordan are generally of lower quality than private hospitals, and may not have the latest medical technology or the best doctors.
Jordan's Private Healthcare System
Jordan also has a private healthcare system, which is used primarily by expats and digital nomads. Private hospitals in Jordan are of higher quality than public hospitals, and are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private healthcare is more expensive than public healthcare, but it is still relatively affordable. The most popular private health insurers in Jordan are Arab Jordan Investment Bank, Jordan Insurance Company, and Arab Orient Insurance Company. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
Jordan's Top Hospitals
The top hospitals in Jordan include:
- King Hussein Cancer Center (public, Amman)
- King Hussein Medical Center (public, Amman)
- Jordan University Hospital (public, Amman)
- Al-Basheer Hospital (private, Amman)
- Al-Hussein Hospital (private, Irbid)
- Al-Mafraq Hospital (public, Mafraq)
- Al-Bashir Hospital (private, Zarqa)
- Al-Hussein Hospital (private, Aqaba)
Health Insurance Companies in Jordan
The most popular private health insurers in Jordan are Arab Jordan Investment Bank, Jordan Insurance Company, and Arab Orient Insurance Company. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Jordan: How to Navigate the Health System
"Jordan has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. The country has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide quality medical care. Jordan also has a number of specialized medical centers that offer specialized treatments and services, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. Additionally, Jordan has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores that provide a wide range of medications and medical supplies," commented one member living in Jordan.
"If you are 65 or over there is no insurance coverage available within the country since native Jordanians are covered after that age by social security. You do not want to have surgery in Aqaba. You need to go to Amman. And then ask around to find the best Doctor / hospital for your situation," commented one expat living in Aqaba , Jordan.
"Jordan offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, and hospital services. The public healthcare system in Jordan is generally of good quality and is available to all citizens and foreign residents. Expats in Jordan can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. Expats can also access private healthcare services, which are generally of higher quality than the public system. Private healthcare services are usually more expensive than public services, but they offer more comprehensive care and shorter wait times. Expats can also purchase private health insurance to cover the cost of private healthcare services," mentioned one expat living in Jordan.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Jordan Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Jordan
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Jordan
- Best Places to Live in Jordan
- Guide to Real Estate in Jordan
- Pros & Cons of Living in Jordan
- Cost of Living in Jordan
- Having a Baby in Jordan
- Health Insurance in Jordan
- Best Places to Visit in Jordan for Christmas Cheer
- Christmas in Jordan
- Pros and Cons of Living in Jordan 2024