15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Laos

"Healthcare services in Laos are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is largely funded by the government and is available to all citizens of Laos. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of a lower standard than in other countries. Foreign residents do have access to the public healthcare system, but the services are limited and the cost of treatment can be expensive. Expats in Laos often use the public healthcare system for basic medical needs, but they may also opt to use private healthcare services for more specialized treatments," remarked one expat in Laos.

"Medical services in Laos are generally limited, with most of the country's medical facilities located in the capital city of Vientiane. The majority of medical care is provided by the government, with a few private clinics and hospitals available. The quality of care varies, with some facilities providing basic services while others offer more advanced treatments. In rural areas, access to medical care is often limited, and many people rely on traditional medicine for their health needs. In general, medical services in Laos are not up to the standards of other countries in the region," said one expat.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Laos can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government's health insurance scheme. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the cost of medical care in Laos is generally higher than in other countries in the region, making it difficult for many people to access quality healthcare," said an expat in Laos.

"Emergency services in Laos are limited and vary in quality depending on the region. In general, medical care is not as advanced as in other countries. To call for an ambulance, it is best to contact the local police station or hospital. In some areas, it is possible to call a private ambulance service. However, these services may not be available in all areas," remarked one expat in Laos.

"Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is home to a wide variety of medical specialists, including general practitioners, specialists in internal medicine, cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics. The city also has a number of hospitals and clinics that offer a range of services, including emergency care, diagnostic imaging, and laboratory testing. Other cities in Laos with a good selection of medical specialists include Luang Prabang, Savannakhet, and Pakse. Additionally, the provinces of Champasak and Xieng Khouang have a number of medical specialists, including general practitioners, obstetricians, and gynecologists," remarked one expat living in Laos.

"Prescription medications are available in Laos, although the availability of certain medications may vary depending on the region. Many pharmacies in Laos carry a wide range of medications, including antibiotics, painkillers, and other common medications. However, some medications may not be available in Laos, and it is recommended to check with a local pharmacy before travelling to ensure that the necessary medications are available," remarked one expat in Laos.

"Medical facilities and medical care in Laos are generally of a lower standard than in many other countries. The availability of medical services is limited, particularly in rural areas, and the quality of care is often inadequate. The country has a shortage of qualified medical personnel, and the equipment and medicines available are often outdated or of poor quality. Despite these challenges, the government is making efforts to improve the quality of medical care in the country, including increasing access to healthcare and investing in medical infrastructure," wrote one expat.

"Yes, foreigners living in Laos have access to public healthcare. The quality of care varies depending on the location, but generally the public healthcare system is adequate for basic medical needs. The public healthcare system is largely funded by the government and is free or low cost for citizens and foreigners alike. However, it is important to note that the public healthcare system may not be able to provide the same level of care as private healthcare facilities. Additionally, some medications and treatments may not be available in the public healthcare system," commented one expat living in Laos.

"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Laos. Access to healthcare has become more difficult due to the closure of many health facilities and the limited availability of medical supplies. The government has implemented a number of measures to help mitigate the impact of the pandemic, including providing free testing and treatment for COVID-19, as well as providing financial assistance to those affected by the pandemic. Despite these efforts, the healthcare system in Laos is still struggling to cope with the increased demand for medical services. Many people are unable to access the care they need due to the lack of resources and the limited number of healthcare professionals. Additionally, the cost of healthcare has increased significantly, making it difficult for many people to afford the necessary treatments," commented one expat living in Laos.