South Africa Health Insurance

The Republic of South Africa is located on the southern tip of Africa with coastlines on both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Once considered an international pariah and banned from several international organisations and sporting competitions due to its apartheid regime, the election of Nelson Mandela in 1994 represented a sea change in South African history and was the final step in dismantling the legal segregation of the white and black populace. Today, South Africa still suffers from major social problems, but also boasts a strong emerging economy based on modern services and commodity exports. South Africa has a temperate climate, with four distinct seasons in some areas, but climatic zones vary from desert to subtropical.

Although South Africa has experienced strong economic growth in recent years, rampant social problems and HIV/AIDS continue to depress health care indicators. Average life expectancy is only 54 years for males and 55 years for females, far below that of more developed countries. While average annual per capita health expenditure is high by the low standards of sub-Saharan Africa, USD862 is a very low amount, especially in combating South Africa’s myriad health crises. Similarly, although South Africa’s health care workforce numbers are above the regional average, local hospitals and health clinics are still woefully understaffed. There are only 7.7 doctors per 10,000 people. South Africa is heavily reliant on overseas and bilateral aid for the provision of health, and health care for the majority of the population is provided by the public sector. Private South Africa health insurance is used by wealthier South Africans and expatriates.

South Africa Health Insurance and Health Indices

Communicable diseases like HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis make up the largest proportion of South Africa’s burden of disease. According to WHO figures, nearly four fifths of years of life lost in South Africa can be attributed to communicable disease. HIV infection rates in South Africa are twenty-two times the global average, and are nearly quadruple the already high African regional average. Tuberculosis rates are also four times the global average, and malaria is highly prevalent in rural lower altitude areas. Investment in public infrastructure has increased access to clean drinking water and sanitation facilities over the past two decades, but these have only slowed the rate of increase of the spread of communicable disease.

As an emerging economy, South Africa has at the same time seen an increase in the burden of non-communicable diseases associated with more affluent countries. High rates of smoking and obesity have led to predictable increases in cancer, diabetes and heart disease. These conditions are expensive to treat and have led to gains in the costs of health care in South Africa, putting a strain on South Africa health insurance; Ministry of Health budgets; and hospitals and clinics. The World Health Organisation has set out a series of guidelines in its Country Cooperation Strategy with South Africa for the years 2008 – 2013. The six point plan includes: reducing the burden of communicable disease; combating AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis; reduction of non-communicable disease, injury and accidents; improve maternal, infant and sexual health; reduce inequality in the provision of care; and address social determinants of health on the poor.

South Africa Health Insurance and Expatriate and Tourist Care

South Africa is full of natural beauty and economic opportunity, with much to offer tourists as well as business travellers and expatriates. But there are serious health risks involved in any trip to sub-Sahran Africa, and South Africa is no exception. The main health risks are HIV/AIDS and malaria. Always use a latex condom before sexual intercourse in order to prevent the spread of HIV. To prevent malaria in at-risk areas, sleep in an air-conditioned room or under a mosquito net; always wear long-sleeved clothing if possible; use insect repellent with DEET; and use anti-malarial pills under a physician’s supervision.

Before visiting South Africa, visiting a travel health clinic is strongly recommended to update routine immunisations. As of October 1, 2011, all travellers coming from a country at risk of yellow fever will be required to show proof of vaccination, regardless of the duration of their visit. Due to the limitations of the public health care system in South Africa, health insurance is strongly recommended, preferably from a reputable international health care provider.

Care provided in hospitals and clinics catering to expatriates in major cities in South Africa are of a high standard and probably the best in Africa. There is a highly regarded ambulance system, and medicines are much more affordable than in most developed countries. Expatriates and retirees relocating to South Africa report few problems and overall satisfaction with the level of health care provided. However, in most clinics payment or proof of insurance is required in advance of care, so an international health insurance plan is strongly recommended.

South Africa Expat Medical Insurance

International travellers and expatriates are often overwhelmed by the broad range of choices available for those seeking international health care plans. Of course everyone wants to ensure the best level of care possible for themselves, their family, their colleagues or their tour group. Using a trusted advisor like Expatriate Medical Insurance will help you make sure that your needs are covered. Our experienced team of advisors is available around the clock to assist you in selecting the best international medical insurance plan for your needs. Don’t hesitate to give yourself and your family the peace of mind you deserve. Contact Expatriate Medical Insurance today for more information.