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

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 01, 2024

Summary: The quality of medical care in Somalia is generally lower than in the United States. Somalia has limited access to medical supplies, equipment, and trained medical personnel, and the quality of care is often inadequate. Emergency services are limited and unreliable, and it can be difficult to call for an ambulance. In some cases, people must rely on private transportation to get to a hospital.

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How are healthcare services Somalia?

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

"Healthcare services in Somalia are limited and vary greatly in quality. The public healthcare system is largely inadequate and underfunded, with limited access to basic medical supplies and equipment. The quality of public healthcare is generally poor, with limited access to specialized care and treatments. Foreign residents do not have access to the public healthcare system, and must rely on private healthcare providers. Expats in Somalia typically use private healthcare providers, as the public healthcare system is not equipped to meet their needs," commented one expat living in Somalia.

What are medical services in Somalia like?

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

"Medical services in Somalia are limited due to the ongoing conflict and lack of resources. Access to healthcare is often difficult, especially in rural areas, and many medical facilities lack basic supplies and equipment. The majority of medical care is provided by private clinics and hospitals, which are often expensive and beyond the reach of many people. In addition, there is a shortage of qualified medical personnel, and many medical professionals have left the country due to the conflict. Despite these challenges, some organizations are working to improve access to healthcare in Somalia, such as the World Health Organization and the International Committee of the Red Cross," commented one expat who moved to Somalia.

The TEFL Institute of Ireland

The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.

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The TEFL Institute of Ireland

The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Somalia?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Somalia are generally quite expensive. Many people in Somalia are unable to afford the cost of healthcare and health insurance, and as a result, they are unable to access the necessary medical care. The cost of healthcare and health insurance is further exacerbated by the lack of infrastructure and resources in the country, which makes it difficult for people to access quality healthcare. Additionally, the lack of a functioning government in Somalia has led to a lack of regulation and oversight of the healthcare system, which has resulted in higher costs for healthcare and health insurance," mentioned one expat in Somalia.

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The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.

The TEFL Institute of IrelandThe TEFL Institute of Ireland

The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.
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What are emergency services like in Somalia?

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

"Emergency services in Somalia are limited and vary depending on the region. In some areas, there are no emergency services available. In other areas, there are limited ambulance services and medical facilities. To call for an ambulance, one would need to contact a local hospital or clinic, or contact a local government office. In some cases, it may be necessary to contact a private ambulance service," said one expat living in Somalia.

The TEFL Institute of Ireland

The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.

Learn More

The TEFL Institute of Ireland

The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, 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. Additionally, the city is home to a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Somali National University Hospital, which offers a range of specialized medical services. Other cities in Somalia that offer a good selection of medical specialists include Hargeisa, Garowe, and Bosaso. These cities are home to a number of hospitals and clinics that offer a wide range of medical services. Additionally, these cities are home to specialized medical centers, such as the Hargeisa Group Hospital, which offers a range of specialized medical services," said one expat living in Somalia.

Are common prescription medications available in Somalia?

"Prescription medications are available in Somalia, but the availability and quality of these medications can vary. In some areas, medications may be difficult to find or may be counterfeit. In other areas, medications may be available but may be of lower quality than those found in other countries. Additionally, the cost of medications can be high, making them unaffordable for many people," mentioned one expat in Somalia.

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

"The quality of medical facilities and medical care in Somalia is generally poor. Access to medical care is limited, and the majority of medical facilities are under-equipped and understaffed. Many medical professionals lack the necessary training and resources to provide adequate care. Additionally, the cost of medical care is often prohibitively expensive for many people, making it difficult for them to access the care they need," remarked one expat living in Somalia.

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

"As a foreigner living in Somalia, access to public healthcare is limited. The quality of healthcare available is generally poor, with limited access to medical supplies and equipment. Many hospitals and clinics lack basic medical supplies and are often overcrowded. In addition, there is a lack of trained medical personnel, and many medical professionals have left the country due to the ongoing conflict. As a result, access to quality healthcare is often difficult to find," said one expat living in Somalia.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a devastating impact on Somalia's healthcare system, which was already struggling with limited resources and infrastructure. Many healthcare facilities have been overwhelmed by the influx of patients, leading to long wait times and overcrowding. The lack of access to medical supplies and protective equipment has also put healthcare workers at risk of infection. In addition, the pandemic has caused a shortage of medical personnel, as many have been forced to stay home due to the risk of infection. The Somali government has taken steps to address the crisis, including providing additional funding for healthcare facilities and increasing access to medical supplies. However, the situation remains dire, and more needs to be done to ensure that the healthcare system can adequately respond to the pandemic," remarked one expat living in Somalia.

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

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

"It is important to research the healthcare system in Somalia before having a baby there. Make sure to find a reputable doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in Somalia. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and expectations surrounding childbirth in Somalia. Make sure to have a support system in place, such as family or friends, to help you through the process. Lastly, it is important to be prepared for any unexpected medical costs or complications that may arise during the pregnancy and delivery," said one expat in Somalia.

Are healthcare services good in Somalia?

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

"Healthcare services in Somalia are limited due to the ongoing conflict and lack of resources. Access to healthcare is often difficult for many people, especially those living in rural areas. The majority of healthcare services are provided by the government, but there are also some private clinics and hospitals. The quality of care varies greatly, and many facilities lack basic medical supplies and equipment. In addition, there is a shortage of qualified medical personnel, and many healthcare workers are not adequately trained. Despite these challenges, there are some efforts to improve healthcare services in Somalia, such as the establishment of mobile clinics and the training of healthcare workers," remarked one expat in Somalia.

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.

The TEFL Institute of Ireland
The TEFL Institute of Ireland

Ranked The No. 1 TEFL Provider in Ireland. The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online.
Learn More

The TEFL Institute of IrelandThe TEFL Institute of Ireland

Ranked The No. 1 TEFL Provider in Ireland. The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online.
Learn More

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