Egypt Health Insurance

The Arab Republic of Egypt is located in North Africa and shares its borders with Sudan, Libya, Israel and the Gaza Strip. It is also boarders the Red Sea to the east and the Mediterranean Sea to the north. With a population of approximately 80 million people, Egypt is one of Africa’s most populous nations, and over half of this number lives in the Nile Delta region, which includes the capital city Cairo. Its economy is one of the most diverse in the region with the tourism, services, industry and agriculture sectors all contributing an almost equal percentage to the country’s GDP. Egypt is famous for its numerous national monuments, artifacts and sites of historical interest, attracting millions of tourists each year. In January 2011, nationwide protests began which were designed to oust President Mubarrak from power. He resigned the following month and the country is currently being governed by the military with democratic elections scheduled to take place within the first six months of 2012.

Egypt Health Care and Insurance

The provision of health care services falls under the remit of the Ministry of Health and Population (MOHP). The Ministry’s main policy goal is the ongoing development of an affordable and accessible health care system for all citizens. The Egyptian health care system has undergone significant reform since the declaration of the Republic in 1953. Additional funding of the public health system and the creation of health insurance schemes and taxes has allowed the government to develop a large network of primary health care clinics and hospitals. In conjunction with public health facilities, a small but impressive private health care system operates in the most populated cities, particularly Cairo and Alexandria. Despite the higher costs, many affluent Egyptians and expatriates use private health facilities. Expatriates and tourists wishing to use private facilities should note the additional costs involved. Purchasing an international Egypt health insurance policy is therefore strongly advised.

Although considerable funding has been allocated towards the development of health care and its various reform programs, concerns have begun to surface over whether this can be maintained in the long term. At present, the government contributes approximately 35 percent of the total health care spending; social insurance and private insurance contribute 6 and 8 percent respectively. The remaining 51 percent is comprised of out of pocket payments from individuals. This imbalance has created an unfair burden on ordinary citizens, many of whom survive on low to moderate incomes. Egypt has for decades received significant financial assistance from the United States, European Union and the World Bank. The continued global financial crisis may mean a decline in these contributions, putting further pressure on the Egyptian government to provide the finance required.

Public health sector clinics are the first point of contact for citizens seeking medical assistance. In urban areas, these clinics operate in close cooperation with hospitals and are generally staffed by a team of doctors and nurses. Treatments available include immunization, vaccinations, out-patient, dental and general practice health services. Hospitals can provide a wide range of secondary and tertiary health services and it is now estimated that 98 percent of the population has access to public health services. Private health facilities are generally better equipped with modern technology and are adequately staffed by highly trained personnel who have a good command of English. Expatriates and visitors in possession of an international Egypt health insurance policy are encouraged to use private health facilities where available.

Egypt Travel Insurance Concerns

Despite an increase in the number of public health facilities, the condition of these buildings has been described as basic and dilapidated. Health facilities in the sparsely populated areas of Egypt are only capable of providing simple treatment and care. There are insufficient numbers of health personnel to cater to an increasing population and there are currently 2 doctors for every 1,000 people, far below the doctor patient ratio of more developed countries. Staff shortages have resulted in long waiting times at clinics and hospitals. Moreover, morale amongst health staff is low which further compounds administrative problems at these facilities.

Poor sanitation and hygiene problems remain an obstacle to raising the health care standards of the Egyptian population. Access to clean and safe drinking water is only available to 70 percent of the population. Approximately 60 percent of domestic residences are not connected to the national sewage system and a similar number do not have a working plumbing system. Outbreaks of water borne diseases such as Cholera and Schistosomiasis are common throughout the year while other diseases such as Polio, Rabies, Typhoid, Meningitis, Hepatitis A and B are endemic. Expatriates and tourists visiting the region for the first time should consult with a travel health specialist and receive the required vaccinations. Being in possession of an Egypt health insurance policy will ensure rapid access to medical assistance should the need arise.

In light of the current political uncertainty, expatriates and non-nationals should avoid large scale political demonstrations and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent. There is an increased security presence in many large cities and foreign nationals are advised to carry their passports or other forms of photo identification at all times. Recent terrorist attacks in the Sinai area and border with Israel resulted in a number of Israeli and Egyptian security forces being killed. The area remains tense and all but essential travel to the area is advised. Egypt is a Muslim majority nation and local customs, traditions and religious beliefs should be respected at all times.

Egypt Expat Health Insurance

Expatriates and visitors to Egypt who require medical assistance can expect moderate standard of treatment. Private health facilities can provide health care more comparable with international standards, although at an increased cost. Holding an international Egypt health insurance policy can help reduce exposure to high medical costs. Expat Medical Insurance can help you determine which policy best suits your particular requirements. For more information on international Egypt health insurance, global health insurance policies or for a free quote, please contact one of our advisors today.