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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Uganda | Expat Exchange
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15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Uganda

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 04, 2024

Summary: The quality of medical care in Uganda is generally lower than in the United States. Medical facilities are often understaffed and lack the necessary resources to provide adequate care. Emergency services are limited and often unreliable. To call for an ambulance, one must contact the local police station or fire department.

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How are healthcare services Uganda?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Uganda, they replied:

"Uganda has a public healthcare system that provides basic healthcare services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Uganda is generally considered to be low, with limited access to medical supplies and equipment, and a shortage of qualified medical personnel. Foreign residents in Uganda have limited access to the public healthcare system, and must often rely on private healthcare providers for medical care. Expats in Uganda may use the public healthcare system if they are able to obtain a valid health insurance card, however, the quality of care is often lower than that of private healthcare providers," remarked one expat in Uganda.

What are medical services in Uganda like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Uganda, they replied:

"Uganda 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 Uganda varies depending on the location and the resources available. In general, the public health system is underfunded and understaffed, leading to long wait times and limited access to specialized care. However, the country is making efforts to improve the quality of medical services, including increasing access to essential medicines and investing in training for healthcare workers," wrote one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Uganda?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Uganda can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by a government-sponsored health insurance plan. Private health insurance plans are available, but they can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, many healthcare facilities in Uganda are not well-equipped and may not provide the best quality of care. Furthermore, the cost of medications and treatments can be high, making it difficult for many people to access the care they need," mentioned one expat in Uganda.

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What are emergency services like in Uganda?

When we asked about emergency services, members in Uganda wrote:

"In Uganda, emergency services are provided by the Uganda Red Cross Society. They provide ambulance services, first aid, and other emergency services. To call for an ambulance, you can dial the Uganda Red Cross Society's emergency number, which is 112. The Uganda Red Cross Society also has a website where you can find more information about their services," remarked one expat living in Uganda.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Kampala is the largest city in Uganda and has the most comprehensive selection of medical specialists. Other cities with a good selection of medical specialists include Jinja, Entebbe, Mbale, and Mbarara. Additionally, the towns of Gulu and Arua in the northern part of the country have a good selection of medical specialists," commented one expat who moved to Uganda.

Are common prescription medications available in Uganda?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Uganda. However, the availability of certain medications may vary depending on the region. Generally, most medications used to treat common illnesses such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis are available in Uganda. Additionally, some medications used to treat chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and asthma are also available. However, due to limited resources, some medications may be difficult to find or may be of lower quality than those found in other countries," mentioned one expat in Uganda.

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Uganda?

"Medical facilities and medical care in Uganda are generally of a good standard. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by qualified medical professionals. The government has invested heavily in the health sector, and there are a number of initiatives in place to improve access to healthcare for all citizens. In addition, there are a number of international organizations and NGOs working in the country to provide medical assistance and support. Despite these efforts, access to quality healthcare remains a challenge in some parts of the country, particularly in rural areas," said one expat.

As a foreigner living in Uganda, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, foreigners living in Uganda have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the facility, but generally the public healthcare system is underfunded and understaffed, leading to long wait times and limited resources. However, there are some private healthcare facilities that offer better quality care," commented one expat living in Uganda.

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in Uganda if they have access to public healthcare in Uganda. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Uganda. Many healthcare facilities have had to reduce their services due to a lack of resources and staff, and the government has implemented strict measures to limit the spread of the virus. Despite these challenges, healthcare workers have continued to provide essential services to those in need. The government has also provided additional funding to support the healthcare system, and has implemented measures to ensure that vulnerable populations have access to healthcare. Additionally, the government has launched a number of initiatives to raise awareness about the importance of preventive measures, such as handwashing and social distancing," said an expat in Uganda.

"Uganda doesn't have the ability to sufficiently treat severely I'll patients. Most expats are flown to Kenya," commented one expat living in Jinja, Uganda.

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Uganda?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in Uganda about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Uganda before having a baby. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in Uganda. It is also important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Uganda. Additionally, it is important to be prepared for the cost of having a baby in Uganda, as medical costs can be high. Finally, it is important to build a support network of family and friends who can provide assistance during the pregnancy and after the baby is born," remarked one expat in Uganda.

Are healthcare services good in Uganda?

We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Uganda. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in Uganda are generally limited and of low quality. The country has a shortage of healthcare professionals, and many of the existing healthcare facilities are underfunded and lack basic medical supplies. Access to healthcare is also limited in rural areas, where many people lack the resources to travel to urban centers for medical care. Despite these challenges, the government of Uganda has made efforts to improve healthcare services, including increasing access to primary care and investing in health infrastructure," remarked one in Uganda.

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.

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