How does healthcare work in Cape Verde, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the healthcare system work in Cape Verde?

Medical care in Cape Verde is limited and consists of both public and private options. In recent years, the quality and coverage of healthcare have improved significantly, as has life expectancy. Still, healthcare remains limited.
The largest hospitals are located in Praia and Mindelo. There are also hospitals in São Filipe and Fogo. In the rest of the country, you’ll mostly find smaller medical facilities.
For serious medical issues, you often need to travel to Portugal or at least to a larger island.
Pharmacies (farmácias) can be found in towns and on most islands. For basic medication you’re usually fine, but for specific or chronic medicines you may face long waiting times. Opening hours are fairly standard (daytime); on Sundays or holidays you may need to search a bit more.
It can be useful to learn some basic Portuguese phrases for better communication with medical staff.
The general emergency number is 130.

The public system is accessible and inexpensive. Suitable for simple issues, but not for extensive care.
Cape Verde has a national health insurance system: the National Institute of Social Security (INPS). Working residents and citizens pay contributions to this.
You typically start at a health center; with a referral you can then go to a regional hospital.
Around 70% of costs are often covered under the national scheme, but tourists/expats are usually not included.
Downsides: limited equipment, medicines not always in stock, long waiting times, and unstable basic services (water, electricity).

Private care is available in Praia and Mindelo, with better-trained doctors and somewhat more modern facilities.
It is generally faster, cleaner, and more efficient than public care, but naturally more expensive. Still, it is often cheaper than Western Europe.
For complex surgeries or long-term treatment, most expats opt for evacuation to Portugal.

There’s no traditional GP system, but you can find general doctors at health clinics.
Expats often find a fixed private doctor in Praia or Mindelo.

Dentists are mainly located in the larger cities.
Fine for cavities, cleanings, and basic care. Costs are usually lower than in Europe.
For serious procedures or oral surgery, many people travel abroad, often to Europe.

Maternity care has improved significantly in recent years. Facilities are still limited, though.
Hospital Agostino Neto is the most popular hospital for deliveries.
Giving birth in public hospitals can be risky: little equipment, staff shortages, and sometimes insufficient medication.
Private clinics offer better conditions, but quality varies widely.
Many women (especially expats) plan to give birth in Portugal, particularly in case of medical complications.

Cape Verde is relatively safe, with a stable political situation compared to the region.
Pickpocketing and petty theft occur in cities and tourist areas. Serious violent crime is less common.
Power outages are fairly common.
Going for a swim? Watch out for strong currents.

Mosquito-borne diseases are present.
Other infectious diseases occur; always drink clean bottled water and eat well-preserved food.
HIV/AIDS is present.

Driving isn’t always easy due to poorly maintained or unpaved roads. Drivers can be reckless.
Taxis are plentiful in cities and cheap, but make sure to use reliable ones and agree on the fare in advance.
Ferries are unreliable (in terms of schedule and safety). Flights are sometimes more reliable.
Driving at night is risky: animals on the road, potholes, and no lighting.

Is the trip to Cape Verde and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.