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Healthcare and Health Insurance in Kuwait | Expat Exchange
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Kuwait City

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Kuwait

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 10, 2024

Summary: The quality of medical care in Kuwait is generally considered to be good, although it may not be on par with the standards of medical care in the United States. Emergency services are generally reliable and efficient, and ambulances can be called by dialing 112.

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

How are healthcare services Kuwait?

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

"Healthcare services in Kuwait 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 is generally good, with a wide range of services available, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Kuwait 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 offer more comprehensive coverage and better quality of care," commented one expat who moved to Kuwait.

What are medical services in Kuwait like?

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

"In Kuwait, medical services are generally of a high standard. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. Kuwait also has a number of specialized medical centers, offering treatments for a range of conditions. The government provides free healthcare to all citizens, and there are a number of private health insurance plans available for those who wish to purchase additional coverage. Kuwait also has a number of pharmacies, providing access to a range of medications," mentioned one expat in Kuwait.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Kuwait?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Kuwait can be expensive. The cost of medical care is generally higher than in other countries, and the cost of health insurance can be quite high. Additionally, the cost of medications can be quite high, and many people find it difficult to afford the necessary treatments. However, the government does provide some subsidies for healthcare, and there are also some private health insurance plans available," wrote one expat.

What are emergency services like in Kuwait?

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

"Emergency services in Kuwait are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial 112, which is the emergency number for Kuwait. The ambulance service is free of charge and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The ambulance service is staffed by trained medical personnel who are able to provide medical assistance and transport to the nearest hospital," remarked one expat living in Kuwait.

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Kuwait City is home to some of the best medical specialists in the country. The Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital, located in the city, is one of the most renowned medical facilities in the region, offering a wide range of medical services and specialists. Other areas in Kuwait with a good selection of medical specialists include Hawally, Salmiya, and Fahaheel. These areas are home to several private and public hospitals, as well as a number of specialized medical centers. Additionally, the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital in Jahra is another excellent option for those seeking medical specialists in Kuwait," said one expat living in Kuwait.

Are common prescription medications available in Kuwait?

"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Kuwait. Most pharmacies in Kuwait carry a wide range of medications, including those used to treat common illnesses such as colds, flu, and allergies. Many pharmacies also carry medications for more serious conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. In addition, Kuwaiti pharmacies often carry medications for mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety," said one expat.

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

"Medical facilities and medical care in Kuwait are of a high standard. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of modern medical facilities and highly trained medical professionals. Kuwait has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, offering a range of treatments and services. The country also has a number of specialized medical centers, providing specialized care for a variety of conditions. Kuwait also has a number of private medical facilities, offering a range of services and treatments. In addition, Kuwait has a number of pharmacies, providing a range of medications and other health-related products," commented one expat living in Kuwait.

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

"Yes, foreigners living in Kuwait have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Kuwait is generally considered to be of a high quality, with a wide range of services available. The government provides free healthcare to all citizens and residents, including foreigners, and there are a number of public hospitals and clinics throughout the country. The public healthcare system is well-funded and well-equipped, and the quality of care is generally good. However, there can be long waiting times for appointments and some services may not be available in all areas," commented one expat living in Kuwait.

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

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

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Kuwait. The government has implemented strict measures to ensure the safety of citizens, including the closure of some medical facilities and the introduction of telemedicine services. The healthcare system has also been strained due to the influx of patients seeking treatment for COVID-19. Despite the challenges, the healthcare system has been able to provide quality care to those in need. The government has also provided financial support to healthcare workers and medical facilities to help them cope with the increased demand," commented one expat who moved to Kuwait.

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

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

"I would recommend my favorite books, because there are not prenatal classes for first time parents. I would recommend delivering at Royale Hayat because they are the most natural-birth-friendly," said one person in Kuwait City.

View More Answers

Are healthcare services good in Kuwait?

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

"Healthcare services in Kuwait are generally of a high standard. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals and clinics providing a range of medical services. Kuwait has a number of specialized medical centers, such as the Kuwait Cancer Control Center, the Kuwait Cardiac Center, and the Kuwait Diabetes Center. Kuwait also has a number of medical universities and research centers, which are dedicated to providing quality healthcare services. In addition, Kuwait has a number of health insurance companies that provide coverage for medical expenses," said one expat in Kuwait.

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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