Madagascar Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in Madagascar

International health insurance ensures the quality and accessibility of healthcare services for expats in Madagascar. It serves as a key to unlock private-exclusive features such as medical evacuation and repatriation, shorter wait times, and advanced medical facilities.

Healthcare is affordable or even free for expats, depending on their residency status. Yet the system is underfunded and provides healthcare services that are often inadequate to meet expats' healthcare needs.

Those planning to travel or visit Madagascar will undoubtedly be interested in knowing more about the local healthcare system, and whether private health insurance is required. This short guide provides valuable information for expats to make informed decisions.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Madagascar

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

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AXA Global Health Insurance Plan

• Experienced Personal Support 24/7
• Easy Online Access
• Virtual Doctor Service
• Mind Health Support
• Maximum Annual Benefit Limit up to USD $8,000,000

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The Healthcare System in Madagascar

Madagascar's healthcare system comprises of western and traditional medicine practices. Madagascan traditional medicine is available throughout the country and practiced largely in rural provinces, featuring plant-based products for medicinal purposes.

Western medicine is available through public and private facilities. General hospitals are confined to the capital city Antananarivo. Other urban areas across Madagascar have hospitals, but rural areas largely lack medical facilities and that's why traditional medicine is largely practiced.

Madagascar's Public Hospitals

Madagascar's public health system is structured hierarchically, starting from basic health centers at the community level up to university hospitals in major cities. The Ministry of Public Health oversees the system, which is divided into central, regional, and district levels.

Despite government efforts to improve healthcare access, Madagascar still has poor healthcare infrastructure and services. The public system struggles with underfunding, insufficient staffing, and limited resources, resulting in only around one-third of residents accessing to services they need.

Basic Health Centers (CSB) form the foundation of public healthcare, providing primary care services in rural and urban areas. These centers typically offer:

• Basic medical consultations
• Maternal and child healthcare
• Vaccination programs
• Family planning services
• Treatment of common illnesses
• Basic first aid
• Health education

District and Regional Hospitals provide more comprehensive services including:

• Emergency care
• Surgery
• Obstetrics
• Pediatrics
• Internal medicine
• Basic diagnostic services
• Dental care

The best public hospitals and clinics in Madagascar include:

• Hôpital Joseph Ravoahangy Andrianavalona
  • Address: Route Nationale 1, BP 4150, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar
  • Contact Number: +261 20 22 279 79
• Hôpital Soavinandriana
  • Address: 6 bis, Rue du Dr Moss Antananarivo, Antananarivo 101, Madagascar
  • Contact Number: +261 20 23 397 51
• Hopital Philibert Tsiranana
  • Address: XXGJ+PFH, Taolagnaro, Madagascar
  • Contact Number: +261 20 92 212 58

Madagascar's Private Hospitals

The private sector is funded mainly through the Malagasy Lutheran Church and international bodies, the increased funding enables private facilities to acquire modern medical equipment, expand the scope of services, and hire more healthcare professionals.

Private healthcare services typically include:

• Advanced diagnostic services
• Specialized surgical procedures
• Modern medical equipment
• Private rooms
• International medical standards
• Specialist consultations
• Emergency services

The private healthcare sector in Madagascar has grown significantly, particularly in urban areas. Private facilities generally offer higher quality services but are accessible mainly to the wealthy urban population. Major private hospitals are concentrated in Antananarivo and other major cities.

The best private hospitals and clinics in Madagascar include:

• Care & Medical Assistance Hospital (CMA)
  • Address: Clinique et Maternité d'Anosibe, Immeuble, Antananarivo, Madagascar
  • Contact: +261 33 15 836 60
• Clinique Reine Marie
  • Address: 22 Lalana Pastuer, Antananarivo, Madagascar
  • Contact: +261 34 20 239 72
• Hopitaly Vaovao Mahafaly - The Good News Hospital
  • Address: 5RCH+VMJ, Mandritsara, Madagascar
• Institut Pasteur de Madagascar
  • Address: Antananarivo 101, Madagascar
  • Contact: +261 20 22 412 72

Health Insurance Options in Madagascar for Expats

The healthcare system in Madagascar consists of public and private insurance, each serving different needs and populations.

Public Insurance in Madagascar

The health sector is overseen by the Ministry of Health, which manages government-run healthcare programs. Numerous hospitals and health centers are available throughout the country, providing accessible specialized treatments to residents.

Public healthcare is available to all citizens, particularly in rural areas where public facilities are often the primary source of medical care. It covers essential and basic medical services, including outpatient care, hospitalization, maternal and child health services, and vaccinations.

Private Insurance in Madagascar

Private health insurance in Madagascar provides more comprehensive coverage that supplements the public system and provides faster access and higher quality care. Private hospitals and clinics cater to those who can afford the costs and pay for additional coverage.

Private plans typically cover treatments and services such as elective surgeries, specialist consultations, advanced diagnostics, and more. Most importantly, expats in Madagascar would want emergency evacuation and repatriation cover.

In the event of serious illness or accident, emergency evacuation to a hospital overseas, such as La Reunion Island, Mauritius, or South Africa, will be required to receive an adequate level of medical care. Air or waterway transportation is highly expensive in these locations.

Best Private Insurance Providers for Expats in Madagascar

With over two decades of presence in the insurance industry, Pacific Prime has been collaborating with reputed insurers from all over the world, including MSH International, April International, AXA, and Cigna, to provide comprehensive insurance solutions to expats in Madagascar.

MSH International

MSH International's international health insurance plan emphasizes flexibility and comprehensiveness. Expats in Madagascar can enjoy and use valuable resources such as medical provider locators, a streamlined claims process, and country guides on their user-friendly app.

• Inpatient treatment
• Hospitalization
• Cancer treatment
• Emergency evacuation

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April International

April International has over 30 years of experience offering quality and affordable international health insurance to worldwide expats, including those in Madagascar. Expats will find their fully paperless reimbursement system convenient, allowing hassle-free documentation and claims process.

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

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AXA

The highlights of AXA's international health insurance plan are the second medical opinion service they offer, the availability of evacuation and repatriation coverage across all plan levels, and the virtual doctor service and mind health support available anywhere in the world.

They have been offering insurance solutions to more than 95 million clients in over 50 countries. The five-tiered plan offers wide coverage and flexibility to expats in Madagascar, catering to individual needs and budgets.

• Hospital charges and surgery
• Virtual doctor service
• Mind health service
• Emergency coverage
• Medical evacuation and repatriation
• Wide range of cancer treatment
• Ambulance transport
• CT, PET and MRI scans

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Cigna

Cigna provides international health insurance for expats across more than 200 countries and jurisdictions. Their network of trusted hospitals and doctors, combined with 24/7 customer support and comprehensive health coverage has made it a popular choice for expats.

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

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Facts to Consider When Picking Insurance in Madagascar

When selecting international health insurance in Madagascar, expats should consider these essential factors to ensure they choose a plan that meets their needs:

• Coverage Scope
  • Ensure the plan covers essential services such as hospitalization, outpatient care, emergency medical treatment, maternity care, and prescription medications. Look for coverage options specific to your health needs.
• Network of Providers
  • Check the insurance provider's network of hospitals, clinics, and doctors in your area. A robust network can facilitate easier access to quality care and may allow for direct billing, reducing out-of-pocket expenses.
• Pre-existing Conditions
  • Understand how the insurance plan handles pre-existing conditions. Some policies may have waiting periods or exclusions, so it's crucial to clarify this before purchasing.
• Emergency Medical Evacuation
  • Given the potential limitations of local healthcare facilities, ensure that the plan includes coverage for emergency medical evacuation. This can be crucial for accessing specialized or necessary care in another country.
• Customer Support and Assistance
  • Look for insurance providers that offer 24/7 customer support. Having access to assistance during emergencies or when navigating healthcare can be invaluable.
• Claim Process
  • Review the claims process to determine how straightforward it is. A user-friendly and efficient claims process can save time and reduce stress when seeking reimbursement.
• Exclusions and Limitations
  • Carefully read the policy details to understand any exclusions or limitations. This includes services that may not be covered, which can vary significantly between plans.
• Renewability and Portability
  • Check if the policy is renewable and can be transferred or maintained if you move to another country. This is important for long-term expats.

Health and Safety Tips for Travelers in Madagascar

Communicable diseases are highly prevalent in Madagascar, including cholera, malaria, dengue, chikungunya fever, pneumonia, schistosomiasis (bilharzia), leprosy, rift valley fever, meningitis, and syphilis.

HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis are prevalent in Madagascar but are relatively low in comparison to countries within the African continent. Immediate medical attention is required to treat these potentially life-threatening illnesses.

Vaccinations and medication

Prior to departing for Madagascar, it is highly recommended that all travelers, or long-term visitors, consult a medical professional who specializes in travel medicine. There are a number of routine vaccinations which should be up to date before arriving in the country, including:

• Measles
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B
• Typhoid
• Rabies
• Malaria
• Yellow fever

Frequently Asked Questions

What coverage options are essential in international health insurance plans for expats in Madagascar?

Expats should prioritize comprehensive coverage that includes emergency medical services, hospitalization, outpatient care, and evacuation services. Given Madagascar's healthcare infrastructure, having access to quality medical treatment is crucial.

How do I choose a reliable international health insurance provider while living in Madagascar?

Look for companies with a strong reputation for customer service and a clear claims process. It's also important to check the provider's network of healthcare facilities in Madagascar, ensuring access to quality care.

What are the common exclusions or limitations in international health insurance policies for expats in Madagascar?

Common exclusions in international health insurance policies often include pre-existing conditions, routine dental and vision care, and coverage for specific high-risk activities. Some policies may limit coverage based on geographical areas or specific treatments.

Compare Plans and Quotes in Madagascar Now

It can be a challenging task to find the best private health insurance policy in Madagascar. One of the best decisions expats or travelers can make is to consult an experienced insurance broker, like Pacific Prime.

With two decades of experience matching expats with the most optimal health insurance solutions on the market, Pacific Prime leverages its close partnerships with all major insurers and has an extensive portfolio of all the best plans.

In addition to having the best health insurance policies, Pacific Prime also offers unparalleled service and outstanding claims support.

Contact Pacific Prime today to secure the best insurance solution with the help of consultants who provide impartial advice and support.