Essential Guide to the Health System in Lebanon

Lebanon has a public and private healthcare system, both of which are available to foreigners. The public healthcare system is called the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health and is free for Lebanese citizens. Expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system, but it is not typically used by foreigners. Public hospitals are generally not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery, as they are often overcrowded and lack the necessary resources.

Lebanon's Public Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Lebanon is provided by the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health. It is free for Lebanese citizens, but expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system. However, it is not typically used by foreigners due to the overcrowding and lack of resources. Public hospitals are not recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgery.

Lebanon's Private Healthcare System

The private healthcare system in Lebanon is more expensive than the public system, but it is generally of higher quality. Expats primarily use private hospitals, as they are more reliable and have better resources. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they are better equipped to handle such cases. Private hospitals in Lebanon are typically well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals.

Lebanon's Top Hospitals

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

• American University of Beirut Medical Center (private, Beirut)
• Rafik Hariri University Hospital (private, Beirut)
• Hotel Dieu de France Hospital (private, Beirut)
• Saint George Hospital University Medical Center (private, Beirut)
• Hôtel-Dieu de France Hospital (private, Beirut)
• Lebanese American University Medical Center (private, Beirut)
• Lebanese University Medical Center (public, Beirut)
• Rizk Hospital (private, Beirut)
• Hôpital Sacré Coeur (private, Beirut)
• Hôpital Notre Dame des Secours (private, Jbeil)

Health Insurance Companies in Lebanon

The most popular private health insurers in Lebanon are Libano-Suisse, Medgulf, and Berytech. These companies provide health insurance to both Lebanese citizens and expats. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies, although some may opt for specialized expat health insurance providers.

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

"Lebanon has a well-developed healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals and clinics providing a range of medical services. The country has a number of highly-trained medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and specialists, who are able to provide quality care to patients. Lebanon also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer treatment centers, fertility clinics, and mental health facilities, which offer specialized services to those in need. In addition, Lebanon has a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores, which provide access to a wide range of medications and medical supplies," commented one member living in Lebanon.

"Healthcare services in Lebanon 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 varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a good standard. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, however, they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Lebanon 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 are generally of a higher quality than the public system," commented one member living in Lebanon.