How does the healthcare system work in Eswatini?

What is the quality of healthcare in Eswatini?

• Eswatini has made great strides in health care, but the country faces many challenges.
• Life expectancy is quite low at 57 years for men and 61 years for women, and maternal and infant mortality rates are very high.
• Medical facilities are very limited, especially in the area of ​​emergency care. Accessibility is also a major problem for the local population.
• The best care can be found in the Mbabane Clinic in the capital, but many people are referred to South Africa for care.
• The country receives a lot of help from foreign aid organizations.

How does the public healthcare system work in Eswatini?

• Public health care is largely funded by the government (and some international donors), and is in principle available to everyone. In theory it is free, but in practice there are quite a few obstacles.
• People generally have poor access to health care in Eswatini. There are only a few doctors, people have no money, or the distances are too far.
• There are also long waiting times, shortages of staff and equipment and you may have to bring your own medical supplies (bandages, gloves, etc.).
• Nobody generally do not opt ​​for public healthcare unless there is no other choice.

How does the private healthcare system work in Eswatini?

• The private sector is better equipped, friendlier in terms of service and faster. Doctors often speak English, and hygiene is usually better.
• Many people choose the private sector as an option – and for good reason.
• Disadvantage? The costs. You usually have to pay immediately (sometimes in cash), so good health insurance is not an unnecessary luxury.
• A well-known hospital is the Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital in Manzini, which also offers partly private care.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Eswatini?

• They do not have a GP system. In general, you just go to the nearest doctor.
• Tip: ask local foreigners or hotel staff for recommendations for a good doctor.

How is the dentist arranged in Eswatini?

• In urban areas you can find reasonable dentists, especially in private clinics. Outside the cities, they are hard to find.
• If you need a dentist, check the options in Mbabane and Manzini.

How is pregnancy care arranged in Eswatini?

• Pregnant in Eswatini? Then a good plan and health insurance are crucial. There are midwives and maternity wards, but the quality varies.
• The best care can be found in the private sector.
• In rural areas, traditional midwives are often still used.
• For Western standards, many expats recommend going to neighboring South Africa for the birth - there are many modern private hospitals there that are ready for babies and mothers.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Eswatini?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Eswatini?

• In general, Eswatini is a fairly safe country to live in. In the urban areas of Manzini and Mbabane, petty crime such as pickpocketing and sometimes even robbery occurs. But the chances are quite small. Protect yourself by storing expensive items properly!
• Walking around after dark is not recommended, especially if you are alone.
• Flooding can occur during the rainy season.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Eswatini?

• Eswatini has the (or one of the) highest rate of HIV infections in the world. Thanks to good campaigns, treatment is widespread.
• Malaria Is prevalent in low-lying areas, especially in the east of the country and along the border with Mozambique.
• Swimming pools and rivers can be contaminated with parasites. Swim in areas declared safe (and better not take a sip of the river).
• As in many countries in southern Africa, tap water is not always safe to drink. Go for bottled water, even when brushing your teeth. Avoid raw food, unwashed vegetables and questionable meats.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Eswatini?

• Driving in Eswatini is a greater risk to your safety than anything else. Don’t expect traffic rules to be followed at all times and drunk drivers are a problem.
• Also be prepared for unexpected pedestrians such as goats, children and cows in the middle of the road.
• The main roads are reasonably good, especially between Mbabane and Manzini. Driving at night can be difficult due to poor lighting and road hazards.
• Off the main roads, a 4x4 is sometimes a must – especially after rainfall.
• Minibus taxis are cheap, but chaotic and not always safe.
• For comfort (and safety) it is better to take a taxi through the hotel reception or arrange a reliable driver.

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Eswatini?

• Is the trip to Eswatini 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.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Eswatini if you are going to live there for a while?

• Since there is a good chance that you will be referred abroad for medical care, good international health insurance is important.
• Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.