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Expat Exchange - How to Navigate the Health System in Kuwait
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Kuwait City


How to Navigate the Health System in Kuwait

By Joshua Wood, LPC

William Russell
William Russell

Summary: Learn about the health system in Kuwait: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Kuwait.

Kuwait 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 Kuwaiti citizens. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Kuwait, but they are required to pay for their medical care. The public healthcare system is used by foreigners, but it is not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery. Public hospitals in Kuwait are generally well-equipped and staffed, but the quality of care may not be as high as in private hospitals.

Kuwait's Private Healthcare System

Kuwait's private healthcare system is well-developed and provides a wide range of medical services. Private hospitals are typically more expensive than public hospitals, but they offer higher quality care and more modern facilities. Expats primarily use private hospitals, and they are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in Kuwait are well-equipped and staffed, and they offer a wide range of medical services.

Kuwait's Top Hospitals

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

  • Ahmadi Hospital (public, located in Ahmadi)
  • Farwaniya Hospital (public, located in Farwaniya)
  • Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital (public, located in Hawalli)
  • Al-Razi Hospital (private, located in Hawalli)
  • Al-Sabah Hospital (private, located in Hawalli)
  • Al-Adan Hospital (public, located in Kuwait City)
  • Al-Amiri Hospital (public, located in Kuwait City)
  • Al-Rashid Hospital (private, located in Kuwait City)
  • Al-Salam International Hospital (private, located in Kuwait City)
  • Al-Zahra Hospital (private, located in Kuwait City)
  • Al-Sabah Eye Hospital (private, located in Kuwait City)

Health Insurance Companies in Kuwait

The most popular private health insurers in Kuwait are Gulf Insurance Group, Warba Insurance, and Kuwait Insurance Company. These companies provide health insurance plans for individuals and families, and they are used by both Kuwaiti citizens and expats. Expats typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

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

"In Kuwait, medical services are generally of a high standard. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. Kuwait also has a number of specialized medical centers, offering treatments for a range of conditions. The government provides free healthcare to all citizens, and there are a number of private health insurance plans available for those who wish to purchase additional coverage. Kuwait also has a number of pharmacies, providing access to a range of medications," commented one member living in Kuwait.

"Healthcare services in Kuwait are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and foreign residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Kuwait can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, many expats opt to use private healthcare services, which offer more comprehensive coverage and better quality of care," commented one member living in Kuwait.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.


William Russell
William Russell

William Russell
William Russell

Kuwait City

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