Healthcare readiness, country by country (Africa)
Healthcare access and quality across Africa vary widely. Major cities often have capable private hospitals, while rural areas may have limited emergency response, intensive care, and specialist services.
Emergency care
- Ambulance response and dispatch systems are variable and often limited.
- Private hospitals generally provide faster access to imaging, specialists, and ICU beds.
- Upfront payment is common; travel insurance and evacuation cover are strongly advised.
Typical gaps travellers should plan for
- Limited trauma systems outside major capitals.
- Restricted availability of advanced imaging (CT/MRI) in regional centres.
- Variable blood product availability and laboratory turnaround.
- Medical evacuation may be required for severe trauma, stroke, complex cardiac care, or neurosurgery.
Examples (high-level)
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| Country | Typical traveller experience |
|---|---|
| South Africa | Strong private sector in major cities; public sector under strain in some areas. |
| Egypt | Good private hospitals in Cairo/Alexandria; variable outside large cities. |
| Morocco | Reasonable private care in major cities; rural gaps. |
| Kenya | Good private hospitals in Nairobi; more limited outside major centres. |
| Ghana | Variable quality; private options in Accra are typically best. |
| Ethiopia | Most specialist capability concentrated in Addis Ababa; limited elsewhere. |
Practical advice: Carry insurance details, know your evacuation provider, and keep critical medical information available on your phone (e.g., via Anonamed) in case you cannot speak for yourself.