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

How does the healthcare system work in Ghana?

Healthcare in Ghana faces many challenges. There are many illnesses and many conditions are increasing, and there is also a shortage of staff and infrastructure, especially outside the cities.
Healthcare consists of five different levels, from basic care at local health posts to highly specialized care in places like Accra. Care is also spread across the national, regional, and district levels.
Generally, healthcare in urban areas is reasonable, and most facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, are located there. However, healthcare is still quite limited and does not meet the standards you might be used to.
In rural areas, things are different. Here, modern healthcare is virtually non-existent, and traditional medicines are mainly used. Ghana has the NHIS – National Health Insurance Scheme, which has been in place since 2003 and covers part of the population.
The Ministry of Health sets the framework; implementation is handled by the Ghana Health Service (GHS).
English is the official language in Ghana, which makes communication with healthcare workers (at least in the cities) easier.
The range of medicines is greater in specialized care than in primary care. Medicines are also more readily available in cities and at private pharmacies.
There is a National Ambulance Service (NAS) operating out of Accra and Kumasi. The national emergency number is 112.

Public healthcare is publicly funded, usually free or affordable through the NHIS – provided you are a cardholder.
The cost of NHIS is determined by income. It is free for children under 18 years, people over 70 years, and pregnant women. There are large hospitals such as EFSTH (Banjul equivalent) and Kanifing General, plus regional Brong-Ahafo hospitals (e.g., Tetteh Quarshie Hospital) and Kumasi (West End Hospital). Healthcare is available, but there are insufficient beds, medications, or staff.
NHIS covers basic care – but even then, you can expect additional costs for labs, medication, or ambulance services after the consultation.

The private sector accounts for approximately 40% of the healthcare market and is growing.
These institutions are mainly found in cities and urban areas. Fancy clinics in Accra or Kumasi are for those who can afford them.
The care is generally better than in the public sector, but also more expensive. Nevertheless, the majority of the population who use healthcare choose the private sector.
Some institutions include Trust Hospital (Accra), West End Hospital (Kumasi), and St. Dominic Hospital. These offer what you are used to in the EU – including air conditioning, but at prices that will raise eyebrows.

The first point of contact for care can be found in community clinics, where you usually speak with nurses. So, not a real GP, but they can be a lifesaver for malaria or diarrhea in the bush.
In cities, you see private GPs and walk-in clinics, which often seem faster and more professional. You pay a premium outside the NHIS. No waiting list, just a bill.
For complex cases, you'll be referred to hospitals like West End or EFSTH.

In the public system, basic dental care is available in hospitals. In rural areas, you'll likely have to endure a toothache for a bit longer.
The vast majority of dentists work in Accra or Kumasi.
There are a few relatively modern, private dental clinics available in Accra or Kumasi.

Maternity care in Ghana has improved over the years, resulting in a decrease in maternal and infant mortality rates. However, the numbers remain high, and many challenges remain, especially in rural areas.
Traditionally, pregnancy and childbirth in Ghana are accompanied by many rituals and spiritual practices. During this period, women are considered vulnerable to evil spirits and sorcery, making spiritual protection through traditional caregivers important. Mothers also often play a significant role in their daughter's pregnancy. The birth itself is a joyous occasion!
Since 2008, all basic maternity care in public hospitals has been free for Ghanaians through the NHIS.
However, the most comprehensive care is available in private institutions, where the wait time is often shorter.
For high-risk pregnancies, it's best to look for a good clinic in Accra or Kumasi.

In general, most of Ghana is relatively safe. Expats often mention the friendliness of the people, and it is considered one of the safer countries in Africa.
However, it's best to avoid the border with Burkina Faso and the surrounding region. Attacks and kidnappings sometimes occur there.
It's also always good to remain cautious and avoid remote or dark areas in cities, especially as a woman.
It's also recommended to use cash as much as possible. Ghanaians are notorious for their credit card fraud.

Malaria is prevalent throughout the country, and other mosquito-borne diseases are also common. So make sure you're well-protected.
Other infectious diseases, such as those caused by foodborne illnesses, are also present. So make sure food is thoroughly cooked and drink bottled water.
Ghana has one of the highest rates of HIV/AIDS.

Traffic is quite chaotic. Important things to keep in mind: drive on the left, wear a helmet on your scooter, and be alert for bush taxis.
Outside the city, roads are often unlit and bumpy.
Oh, and forget about street names. They exist, but in practice, nobody uses them. It's better to memorize the major landmarks; they usually indicate directions.

Is the trip to Ghana 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.

Without health insurance, things can get pretty tough in Ghana. Therefore, good international insurance is essential when visiting Ghana. Private healthcare costs can be high, and it's also good to be covered for repatriation and medical evacuation.
When you have private insurance, you can choose your own doctor in Ghana.
Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.

Access:

Public

Check related region !