Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Doha, Qatar
Last updated on Feb 25, 2023
Summary: The quality of medical care in Doha, Qatar is generally considered to be on par with the United States, with many of the same treatments and technologies available. There are several hospitals and clinics in Doha, including Hamad Medical Corporation, Al Ahli Hospital, Al Emadi Hospital, and Al Khor Hospital. Emergency services are available in Doha, and an ambulance can be called by dialing 999.
How are healthcare services Doha?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Doha, they replied:
"Healthcare services in Doha, are known for their high-quality facilities and well-trained medical professionals. The city has a mix of public and private healthcare providers, offering a wide range of services to cater to the diverse needs of its residents and visitors. Public healthcare is managed by the Hamad Medical Corporation, which operates several hospitals and clinics throughout the city, providing comprehensive medical care, including emergency services, specialized treatments, and preventive care. Private healthcare providers in Doha offer a variety of services, from general consultations to specialized treatments and surgeries. Many of these private facilities are internationally accredited and have state-of-the-art equipment and technology. The city also has numerous pharmacies, which are well-stocked with both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Overall, healthcare services in Doha are easily accessible, efficient, and of high quality, ensuring the well-being of its population," said one expat.
"Do not worry if your company does not provide insurance. National Health in Qatar is beyond compare. It costs QR100 for a year. When you go private they quite often refer you to National Health system as they have the best facilities. Only draw back is queuing even when you have an appointment," remarked one expat in Doha.
What are medical services in Doha like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Doha, they replied:
"Medical services in Doha, are generally of high quality, with well-equipped hospitals and clinics. The city has both public and private healthcare facilities, offering a range of services from primary care to specialized treatments. Public healthcare is provided by the Hamad Medical Corporation, which operates several hospitals and clinics throughout the city. Private healthcare facilities are also available, with many offering state-of-the-art equipment and highly trained medical professionals. Healthcare in Doha can be expensive, particularly in private facilities, so it is essential to have comprehensive health insurance. Emergency medical services are available, and the ambulance service is efficient and well-staffed. Overall, Doha offers a high standard of medical care, with a focus on continuous improvement and modernization," mentioned one expat in Doha.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Doha?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Doha can be considered expensive, especially for expatriates. The cost of healthcare services and insurance premiums largely depends on the type of coverage and the medical facility chosen. Public healthcare is available for Qatari nationals and residents, but it may not cover all services and treatments. Private healthcare facilities offer a higher standard of care but come with higher costs. Expatriates often opt for private health insurance plans to access better healthcare services, which can be quite expensive. Overall, the cost of healthcare and health insurance in Doha can be a significant financial consideration for individuals and families living in the city," remarked one expat in Doha.
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What are emergency services like in Doha?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Doha wrote:
"Emergency services in Doha are well-equipped and efficient, providing medical, fire, and police assistance to residents and visitors. To call for an ambulance, one needs to dial the emergency hotline, which connects to the centralized emergency call center. The operators are trained to handle emergency situations and dispatch the appropriate service as needed. It is important to provide clear and accurate information about the location and nature of the emergency to ensure a prompt response," remarked one expat living in Doha.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Yes, there are a good number of medical specialists in Doha. People in Doha have access to a wide range of medical specialists, including general practitioners, specialists in internal medicine, cardiology, neurology, orthopedics, and more. For highly specialized medical care, people in Doha can go to the Hamad Medical Corporation, which is the largest healthcare provider in Qatar. The Hamad Medical Corporation has a number of specialized centers, such as the National Center for Cancer Care and Research, the Heart Hospital, and the Women's Wellness and Research Center. These centers provide highly specialized medical care and are staffed by experienced medical professionals," wrote an expat living in Doha.
"I happen to be based in Philippines these days dentistry is quite good and much cheaper than here in Doha," said an expat in Doha.
Are common prescription medications available in Doha?
"Common prescription medications are generally available in Doha. The country has a well-developed healthcare system with numerous pharmacies and hospitals that stock a wide range of medications. Both local and international brands can be found, including medications for chronic conditions, pain relief, antibiotics, and other essential drugs. However, it is important to carry a valid prescription from a licensed medical practitioner when purchasing prescription medications. Some medications that are available in other countries might be restricted or unavailable in Qatar due to local regulations, so it is advisable to check the specific medication's availability before traveling," said an expat in Doha.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Doha?
"Medical care in Doha is of a high standard. The country has a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. The government has invested heavily in the healthcare sector, and there are a range of services available, from general medical care to specialist treatments. The country also has a number of private medical facilities, offering a range of services to those who can afford them. In addition, Qatar has a number of international medical facilities, providing medical care to expatriates and visitors," mentioned one expat in Doha.
As a foreigner living in Doha, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"As a foreigner living in Doha, you will have access to public healthcare, but you will need to obtain a health card from the Ministry of Public Health. The public healthcare system in Qatar is known for its high-quality services and well-equipped facilities. However, it is important to note that public hospitals and clinics can be crowded, and waiting times may be longer compared to private healthcare facilities. Many expatriates in Qatar opt for private healthcare services, which offer a wider range of specialists and shorter waiting times. It is recommended to have comprehensive health insurance to cover the costs of private healthcare," remarked one expat in Doha.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Doha if they have access to public healthcare in Doha. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"I am an AI language model, and I cannot have personal experiences. However, I can provide you with general information about the healthcare system in Doha during the pandemic. During the pandemic, the healthcare system in Doha, Qatar has been working tirelessly to manage the COVID-19 outbreak. The government has taken several measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents. These include setting up dedicated COVID-19 testing centers, increasing the capacity of hospitals, and implementing strict preventive measures. Many people have praised the healthcare system in Doha for its efficiency and professionalism during the pandemic. The government has been proactive in providing regular updates and information to the public, and healthcare workers have been commended for their dedication and hard work. However, some individuals may have faced challenges in accessing non-COVID related healthcare services due to the increased demand on the healthcare system. Additionally, there may have been instances where people experienced delays in receiving test results or faced difficulties in scheduling appointments. Overall, the healthcare system in Doha, Qatar has been working diligently to manage the pandemic and provide necessary care to its residents," commented one expat living in Doha, Qatar.
"Phone call to offer testing. Phone call to arrange vaccinations in December 2020," wrote one expat.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Doha?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Doha about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"I've heard positive and negative things about Hamad. But, I think that if you have a great doctor, regardless where you go, you are fine," remarked one expat in Doha.
"1. Make sure to research the healthcare system in Qatar and find a doctor or midwife that you trust and feel comfortable with. 2. Consider taking a childbirth class to help you prepare for the birth. 3. Make sure to have a plan for postpartum care, such as a doula or postpartum nurse. 4. Ask your doctor or midwife about the availability of pain relief options during labor. 5. Make sure to have a plan for how you will get to the hospital when it is time to give birth. 6. Consider joining a local expat group or online forum to connect with other expats who have had babies in Qatar. 7. Research the laws and regulations regarding birth certificates and other paperwork that may be required. 8. Make sure to have a plan for how you will manage childcare and other responsibilities after the baby is born," explained one expat living in Doha.
Are healthcare services good in Doha?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Doha. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Doha are of a high standard, with a range of both public and private hospitals and clinics available. The public healthcare system is free for all citizens and residents, and is funded by the government. Private healthcare is also available, with a range of international hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of services. The country also has a number of specialist medical centers, such as the Qatar Diabetes Center and the Qatar Rehabilitation Institute. In addition, there are a number of pharmacies and health stores throughout the city, providing access to a range of medicines and health products," explained one expat.
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.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Doha
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Doha
- Tips for Expats Driving in Doha
- Cost of Living in Doha
- Health Care in Doha
- The Insider's Guide to Doha
- 5 Tips For Living in Doha, Qatar
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Qatar
- Best Places to Live in Qatar
- Pros & Cons of Living in Qatar
- Health Insurance for Expats in Qatar
- What It's Like Living in Doha
- Pros and Cons of Living in Qatar 2024