Liberia Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in Liberia

Expats who travel or relocate to Liberia are recommended to have international health insurance secured for peace of mind. Liberia’s healthcare system is one of the worst in the world, lacking in medical and human resources for effective, quality care for residents.

If you are traveling to Liberia, you will surely have many questions concerning their healthcare system, healthcare for expats, and local health risks.

This short overview below provides a practical summary of healthcare and insurance in Liberia, as well as options from health insurance companies for expats living and working there.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Liberia

Allianz Care Health Insurance

• World-leading Health Insurance Provider for Expats
• Extensive Network With Over 1.9 Million Medical Providers
• Quick and Efficient Claims Process
• Maximum Plan benefit up to USD $5,000,000

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Cigna Global Insurance Plan

• Worldwide Coverage (excluding the US)
• Access to Cigna's trusted network of hospitals and doctors
• Numerous Deductible Options
• 24/7 Customer Support
• 4 Core Insurance Plans

Plan Details Get a Quote

The Healthcare System in Liberia

The healthcare system in Liberia is divided mainly into two systems, public and private. Both public and private healthcare services are almost exclusively found in Monrovia, with little access outside this capital city.

Public Healthcare in Liberia

The public healthcare system in Liberia is primarily managed by the Ministry of Health, which oversees a network of hospitals, clinics, and health posts across the country. Healthcare services are provided at various levels, including:

• Primary Care: Offered at community health centers and clinics, focusing on preventive care, maternal and child health, and basic treatments.
• Secondary Care: Provided by district hospitals, which handle more complex medical cases and referrals from primary care facilities.
• Tertiary Care: Available in specialized hospitals, including the John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Monrovia, which is the main referral hospital.

Liberia’s healthcare system, since the civil war and ebola outbreak, is challenged with the issues of:

• Limited Resources: The healthcare system struggles with inadequate funding, leading to shortages of medical supplies, equipment, and trained personnel. Many facilities lack basic infrastructure and essential medicines.
• Human Resource Constraints: There is a significant shortage of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and specialists. Many trained healthcare workers have emigrated, seeking better opportunities abroad.
• Infectious Diseases: Liberia has faced outbreaks of diseases such as Ebola and malaria, which strain the healthcare system. The Ebola outbreak in 2014 highlighted the vulnerabilities in the public health response and the need for stronger disease surveillance and control measures.
• Access and Equity: Rural areas often have limited access to healthcare services, with many communities lacking nearby facilities. Geographic and socioeconomic disparities hinder equitable healthcare delivery.

Hospitals and healthcare services in Liberia are confined to the capital Monrovia, with virtually no medical services outside of the city. All of these hospitals provide basic healthcare and non-specialized medical services within Monrovia. Some of the best ones include:

• John F. Kennedy Hospital (Public and Private Services Available)
  • Address: 5th Street, Sinkor, Monrovia, Liberia
  • Contact: +231 77 785 836 / +231 88 021 4222
• Redemption Hospital
  • Address: 2nd Street, New Kru Town, Monrovia, Liberia
  • Contact: +231 88 606 4424 / +231 77 533 2442
• ELWA Hospital
  • Address: ELWA Junction, Paynesville, Monrovia, Liberia
  • Contact: +231 77 872 2092 / +231 88 634 1403
• St. Joseph Catholic Hospital
  • Address: 8th Street, Sinkor, Monrovia, Liberia
  • Contact: +231 77 889 4285 / +231 88 045 1097
• Seventh Day Adventist Hospital
  • Address: Banjul Street, Monrovia, Liberia
  • Contact: +231 77 769 7273 / +231 88 668 2727

Private Healthcare in Liberia

Private hospitals and clinics in Liberia offer a range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialty care, diagnostic services, and inpatient treatment.

Private pharmacies and laboratories play a crucial role in providing medications and diagnostic services to patients across the country.

Some private healthcare facilities in Liberia offer specialized services such as dental care, eye care, maternity services, and mental health services.

Note that the quality of care in private healthcare facilities in Liberia can vary widely. Some facilities may have modern equipment, well-trained staff, and high standards of care, while others may face challenges related to infrastructure and staffing.

John F. Kennedy Medical Center (JFKMC) is regarded as the best private hospital in Liberia. The private hospital provides diagnostic, radiology, general surgery, inpatient and outpatient services. The hospital reopened in 2008 after the suspension of its license in 2004.

With support from private investors, the JFKMC is a modern referral center, equipped with adequate medical equipment with plans to expand its medical staff and healthcare services shortly.

Health Insurance Options in Liberia for Expats

Expats in Liberia have two health insurance options—public and private. Public healthcare is funded by the government and other non-profit organizations; whereas private healthcare is self-funded by securing private health insurance or funded by out-of-pocket payments.

Public Insurance in Liberia

The government has been working to expand access to healthcare services through various initiatives, including the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and Social Security and Welfare Programs.

• National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS): The NHIS was established to provide a framework for universal health coverage in Liberia. It aimed to pool resources to ensure that all citizens have access to essential health services without facing financial hardship.
• Social Security and Welfare Programs: Public sector employees might have access to health insurance through social security and welfare programs provided by the government.

Private Insurance in Liberia

Some private insurance companies in Liberia offer health insurance packages to individuals and groups, usually providing coverage for medical expenses, hospitalization, and sometimes specialized treatments.

Patients are generally required to pay cash before consultation and hospital admission in Liberia.

Because Liberia’s healthcare is limited, the value of private insurance is the option to get coverage for medical evacuation and repatriation. This allows expats to be transported to the nearest facilities with the ability to treat their conditions.

Best Private Insurance Providers for Expats in Liberia

Pacific Prime has partnered with multiple international private insurance providers such as Cigna, April International, and Allianz to offer expats in Liberia a range of insurance options to match their diverse needs. Here are some notable features of these insurers.

Cigna

Cigna offers international health insurance to expats from over 200 countries and jurisdictions. Their trusted network of hospitals and doctors and 24/7 customer support have made it a safe and reliable option for expats in Liberia.

• Hospitalization
• Inpatient and daypatient treatments
• Cancer treatments
• Physiotherapy
• Accidental death or total permanent disability compensation

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April International

April International has over 30 years of experience in providing expats from around the world with quality and affordable international health insurance. Their fully paperless reimbursement system made documenting and making a claim fully digital and convenient for many.

• Inpatient treatment
• Outpatient treatment
• Emergency repatriation
• Emergency evacuation
• Maternity coverage
• Vision and dental coverage

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Allianz

Allianz offers international health insurance to millions of expats worldwide, including Liberia. Allianz Care’s Care, Care Plus, and Care Pro medical plans allow flexibility so that expats can customize the plan concerning their healthcare needs and requirements.

• Inpatient costs
• Diagnostics and laboratory tests
• Surgeries
• Ambulances transport
• Cancer treatment

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MSH International

MSH International offers flexible and comprehensive health insurance plans for worldwide expats, including those in Liberia. They also feature a convenient app that helps provide medical provider locators, easy claims process, and country guides which can come in handy when needed.

• Inpatient treatment
• Hospitalization
• Cancer treatment
• Emergency evacuation

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IMG Global

IMG Global features highly customizable, emergency medical evacuation-inclusive health insurance plans to ensure expats’ peace of mind wherever they are. Along with quality member support, it is a cost-effective and flexible option for expats in Liberia.

• Inpatient treatment
• Surgery
• Labs and diagnostics
• Physical therapy
• Cancer treatment

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Facts to Consider When Picking Insurance in Liberia

To obtain adequate insurance coverage in Liberia, we recommend you consider the following factors:

• Network of Providers: When selecting a private health insurance plan, expats should consider the network of hospitals and clinics available. Many private insurers have partnerships with specific healthcare providers in Liberia, which can affect accessibility.
• Pre-existing Conditions: Expats should be aware of how their insurance plan handles pre-existing conditions, as coverage may vary significantly from one provider to another.
• Medical Evacuation: Given the limitations of local healthcare facilities, many expats prioritize plans that include medical evacuation coverage. This provides access to higher-quality care in other countries if necessary.

Health and Safety Tips for Travelers in Liberia

During your time abroad, the last thing you want is to fall sick. The following health and safety tips can help you avoid potential health hazards and maximize your health condition.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are recommended for expats and travelers to Liberia, to protect against common communicable diseases such as Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Polio, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, and Tetanus-diphtheria.

A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory upon entering Liberia.

Personal and Property Safety

Although the political situation in Liberia has mostly settled, violence and corruption continue to occur throughout the country, particularly in the capital Monrovia. Protestor-led demonstrations and public riots are frequent as well as criminal acts and sexual violence.

Expats should avoid walking alone, particularly during the night. Due to high levels of poverty in Liberia, acts of muggings are common. As such, expats should not carry valuables.

Emergency Phone Number

Emergency protocols should be adopted by residents and expats living in Liberia during the event of an accident or serious illness. The emergency contact number for Liberia is 9-1-1 or 3-5-5. That said, call your private medical facility directly for a faster and more reliable service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does international health insurance typically cover for expats in Liberia?

International health insurance for expats in Liberia usually covers a range of services including hospitalization, outpatient care, emergency medical treatment, maternity care, and sometimes dental and vision care. Expats should review their specific policy terms to understand coverage limits.

Is international health insurance mandatory for expats living in Liberia?

While international health insurance is not legally required for expats in Liberia, it is highly recommended. Given the challenges in accessing quality healthcare and the high cost of medical services, having insurance provides financial protection and access to better healthcare options.

How can expats choose the right international health insurance plan for their needs in Liberia?

Expats should consider factors such as coverage options, a network of healthcare providers, premium costs, medical repatriation, and specific needs (e.g., pre-existing conditions). Comparing insurance providers and seeking professional recommendations can help in making an informed decision.

Compare Plans and Quotes in Liberia Now

Liberia is still recovering from its long civil war and its healthcare system is still undeveloped. Because of these issues, it’s best to obtain a robust international health insurance plan.

It allows you to go to the doctor or hospital of your choice so that you will always be able to receive the highest standard of care available regardless of where in the world you are, and even be repatriated back to your home country for further treatment in an emergency.

With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, we understand your healthcare needs. No matter what your budget is or what your requirements are, our professional insurance specialists can match you with a plan that best fits you or your group.

Our policies can cover a plethora of services with optional benefit packages including outpatient, inpatient, maternity, dental, specialist consultations, and many more. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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