15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Angola
Last updated on Mar 23, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Angola is generally lower than in the United States. Medical facilities are often understaffed and lack the necessary equipment and supplies 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.
How are healthcare services Angola?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Angola, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Angola are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is largely underfunded and is characterized by inadequate infrastructure, limited access to medical supplies, and a shortage of qualified medical personnel. The quality of public healthcare is generally poor, with many facilities lacking basic medical equipment and supplies. Foreign residents do have access to the public healthcare system, but the quality of care is often substandard. Expats in Angola typically use private healthcare services, which are more expensive but offer better quality care," said an expat in Angola.
What are medical services in Angola like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Angola, they replied:
"Angola has a limited number of medical facilities and services, with most of the country's medical infrastructure concentrated in the capital city of Luanda. The majority of medical services are provided by the public sector, with a few private clinics and hospitals available. The quality of care varies greatly, with some facilities lacking basic medical supplies and equipment. Access to medical care is often limited due to a lack of resources and infrastructure, and many rural areas have limited access to medical services. The government has made efforts to improve the healthcare system, but much work remains to be done," commented one expat living in Angola.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Angola?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Angola are generally considered to be expensive. The cost of medical care is high, and the quality of care is often not up to international standards. Additionally, health insurance is not widely available, and those who do have it often find that the coverage is inadequate. As a result, many people in Angola are unable to access the healthcare they need due to the high cost," remarked one expat living in Angola.
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What are emergency services like in Angola?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Angola wrote:
"Emergency services in Angola are limited and vary in quality. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 112, the national emergency number. This number is free to call and connects to the national emergency services. However, due to the limited resources available, response times can be slow and the quality of care may not be up to the standards of other countries," wrote an expat living in Angola.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"The cities of Luanda and Benguela generally offer the most comprehensive selection of medical specialists in Angola due to their proximity to major hospitals and renowned physicians. Additionally, in areas such as Huambo, Huila, and Cabinda, medical specialists can also be found with a wide selection of expertise," said an expat in Angola.
Are common prescription medications available in Angola?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Angola. However, the availability of certain medications may be limited due to the country's limited resources and infrastructure. Additionally, the cost of medications may be higher than in other countries due to the lack of competition in the market. As a result, it is important to check with a local pharmacy or doctor to determine the availability and cost of medications before purchasing them," remarked one expat living in Angola.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Angola?
"The quality of medical facilities and medical care in Angola varies depending on location. Basic medical supplies and equipment are available in urban areas, while rural areas often lack essential medical equipment, medicine and skilled medical personnel. In general, access to quality medical care is limited, as medical facilities are often overcrowded and understaffed. Consequently, some patients may not be able to get the medical care they need," remarked one expat in Angola.
As a foreigner living in Angola, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Angola have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the region, but generally the public healthcare system is underfunded and understaffed. Many people opt to use private healthcare facilities, which are more expensive but offer better quality care," remarked one expat living in Angola.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Angola if they have access to public healthcare in Angola. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Angola. The country has seen a shortage of medical supplies, including masks, gloves, and other protective equipment, as well as a lack of testing kits. This has made it difficult for healthcare workers to provide adequate care to those in need. Additionally, the country has seen a decrease in the number of healthcare workers available due to the pandemic, as many have been forced to stay home to protect themselves and their families. This has further exacerbated the already limited access to healthcare in the country. Despite these challenges, the government has taken steps to improve the healthcare system, including increasing the number of healthcare workers and providing additional resources to those in need," wrote an expat living in Angola.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Angola?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Angola about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"Have it abroad...or choose carefully the place...Clinica Girassol is the best for it. It can be quite expensive, but at least you won't regret like I did!!!," said one person in Luanda.
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Angola before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in Angola. It is also important to ensure that you have access to quality medical care in case of any complications during the pregnancy or delivery. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Angola, and to be prepared to follow them. Finally, make sure to have a support system in place, such as family or friends, to help you during the pregnancy and delivery," remarked one expat in Angola.
Are healthcare services good in Angola?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Angola. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Angola are limited due to a lack of resources and infrastructure. The country has a high rate of infant mortality and a low life expectancy. Access to healthcare is limited, particularly in rural areas, and the quality of care is often inadequate. The government has made efforts to improve healthcare services, but progress has been slow. The majority of healthcare services are provided by the public sector, with a small number of private clinics and hospitals. The government has also implemented a number of initiatives to improve access to healthcare, such as providing free healthcare to pregnant women and children under five," remarked one expat in Angola.
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.
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