How are healthcare services in Dar es Salaam?

"Healthcare services in Dar es Salaam, are a mix of public and private facilities, with the public sector being the primary provider of healthcare. The city is home to several major hospitals, including Muhimbili National Hospital, which is the largest referral and teaching hospital in the country. There are also numerous smaller hospitals, health centers, and dispensaries scattered throughout the city, providing various levels of care. The quality of healthcare services in Dar es Salaam varies significantly, with public facilities often being overcrowded and under-resourced, leading to long waiting times and limited access to specialized care. In contrast, private hospitals and clinics generally offer better quality services, with more modern equipment and well-trained staff, but at a higher cost. Primary healthcare services, such as vaccinations, maternal and child health, and basic medical care, are provided at the community level through health centers and dispensaries. However, these facilities often face challenges such as inadequate staffing, lack of essential medicines, and poor infrastructure. In recent years, there have been efforts to improve healthcare services in Dar es Salaam, with the government investing in infrastructure development, staff training, and public-private partnerships. Additionally, non-governmental organizations and international donors have played a significant role in supporting healthcare initiatives in the city, particularly in areas such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and maternal and child health. Despite these efforts, many residents of Dar es Salaam still face challenges in accessing quality healthcare services, particularly those living in informal settlements and rural areas. Issues such as affordability, transportation, and lack of awareness about available services continue to be barriers to accessing healthcare for many people in the city," explained one expat living in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.