15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Rwanda
Last updated on Jan 03, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Rwanda is generally considered to be lower than in the United States. Rwanda has a limited number of medical facilities and a shortage of medical personnel, which can lead to long wait times and limited access to specialized care. Emergency services are available in Rwanda, but they are not as comprehensive as those in the US. To call for an ambulance, one can dial the emergency number 112.
How are healthcare services Rwanda?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Rwanda, they replied:
"Rwanda has a public healthcare system that provides basic healthcare services to its citizens. The quality of public healthcare in Rwanda is generally good, with a focus on preventive care and primary care services. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Rwanda can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, there are private healthcare providers in Rwanda that offer more comprehensive services, including specialist care. Expats in Rwanda may choose to use private healthcare providers for more specialized services," remarked one expat living in Rwanda.
What are medical services in Rwanda like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Rwanda, they replied:
"Rwanda has made significant progress in improving access to healthcare services in recent years. The government has invested in expanding the number of health centers and hospitals, as well as training more health professionals. Primary healthcare services are available in most parts of the country, and specialized services are available in larger cities. The government also provides free healthcare for pregnant women, children under five, and people living with HIV/AIDS. Additionally, the government has implemented a health insurance scheme to help cover the cost of medical services for those who cannot afford them," said an expat in Rwanda.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Rwanda?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Rwanda are generally considered to be affordable. The government has implemented a number of initiatives to make healthcare more accessible and affordable for all citizens, including the introduction of a national health insurance scheme. This scheme provides access to basic healthcare services for all citizens, regardless of their income level. Additionally, the government has also implemented a number of subsidies and tax incentives to make health insurance more affordable for low-income households. As a result, healthcare and health insurance in Rwanda are generally considered to be affordable and accessible," remarked one expat in Rwanda.
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What are emergency services like in Rwanda?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Rwanda wrote:
"Emergency services in Rwanda are provided by the Rwanda Ambulance Service, which is a public-private partnership between the Rwandan government and the private sector. The service provides emergency medical care, including ambulance services, to the public. To call for an ambulance, one can dial the emergency number 112, which is toll-free and available 24 hours a day. The ambulance service is free of charge and is available throughout the country," said an expat in Rwanda.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country. The city is home to a number of hospitals and clinics that offer a wide range of medical services, including specialized care. Additionally, the city is home to a number of medical research centers and universities that provide access to the latest medical technologies and treatments. Other cities in Rwanda that have a good selection of medical specialists include Butare, Gisenyi, and Ruhengeri. These cities are home to a number of hospitals and clinics that offer specialized care and access to the latest medical technologies," said an expat in Rwanda.
Are common prescription medications available in Rwanda?
"Prescription medications are available in Rwanda, although the availability of certain medications may vary depending on the region. Many of the medications available are generic versions of brand-name drugs, and some medications may be imported from other countries. The government of Rwanda has implemented a number of initiatives to improve access to essential medicines, including the establishment of a national drug policy and the introduction of a national essential medicines list. Additionally, the government has implemented a system of price regulation to ensure that medications are affordable for all citizens," said one expat living in Rwanda.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Rwanda?
"Rwanda has made significant strides in improving the quality of medical care and facilities in recent years. The government has invested heavily in the health sector, and the country now has a network of modern hospitals and clinics that provide quality medical care. The country also has a number of specialized medical centers that offer advanced treatments and services. In addition, the government has implemented a number of initiatives to improve access to healthcare, including free healthcare for pregnant women and children under five. Overall, the quality of medical care and facilities in Rwanda is steadily improving," remarked one expat living in Rwanda.
As a foreigner living in Rwanda, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, foreigners living in Rwanda have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the facility, but generally the public healthcare system is well-equipped and staffed with knowledgeable and experienced medical professionals. The government has invested heavily in the healthcare system in recent years, and the country has made great strides in improving access to healthcare for all citizens, including foreigners," wrote one expat.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Rwanda if they have access to public healthcare in Rwanda. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Rwanda. The government has implemented a number of measures to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare workers, including the introduction of telemedicine services, the provision of protective equipment, and the implementation of social distancing protocols. Despite these measures, the healthcare system has been strained due to the increased demand for services. Many healthcare facilities have had to reduce their services or close altogether due to a lack of resources. Additionally, the cost of healthcare has increased, making it difficult for many people to access the care they need. Despite these challenges, the government has continued to prioritize the health and safety of its citizens, and the healthcare system has been able to adapt to the changing circumstances," mentioned one expat in Rwanda.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Rwanda?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Rwanda about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Rwanda before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reliable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in Rwanda. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Rwanda. It is also a good idea to connect with other expat parents who have had babies in Rwanda to get advice and support. Finally, make sure to take time to relax and enjoy the experience of having a baby in Rwanda," wrote a person living in Rwanda.
Are healthcare services good in Rwanda?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Rwanda. They wrote:
"Rwanda has made significant progress in improving access to healthcare services in recent years. The government has invested heavily in healthcare infrastructure, including the construction of new hospitals and health centers. Primary healthcare services are available in most parts of the country, and the government has also implemented a national health insurance scheme to make healthcare more affordable for all citizens. Rwanda also has a number of specialized healthcare facilities, such as the Rwanda Military Hospital and the University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, which provide advanced medical care. Additionally, the government has implemented a number of initiatives to improve the quality of healthcare services, such as training programs for healthcare workers and the introduction of new technologies," said one expat in Rwanda.
About the Author
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.