Togo Health Insurance for Expats

International Health Insurance for Expats in Togo

International health insurance offers comprehensive and flexible coverage such as inpatient and outpatient care, preventive services, and sometimes additional benefits like dental and vision care for expats living and working in Togo. 

This short guide provides information about healthcare and health insurance in Togo for those planning to move or travel to Togo and empowers expats with the knowledge to make informed decisions on whether international health insurance is needed to meet their health needs.

Recommended International Health Insurance Plans for Expatriates Living in Togo

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

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

Plan Details Get a Quote

The Healthcare System in Togo

The healthcare system in Togo is a mix of public and private providers. The public healthcare system is primarily government-funded and operates through a network of hospitals and clinics at different levels, including regional and district hospitals.

Universal healthcare in Togo (l'assurance maladie universelle – AMU) has been partially rolled out in 2024, and the remaining is expected to be released by 2025. All residents would be covered by the system, which would be composed of two tiers. 

Public and private sector employees would be covered by the mandatory régime d'assurance maladie obligatoire de base (RAMO). A separate system would apply to the poor and other individuals on public assistance (régime d'assistance médicale – RAM).

Despite significant improvements over the years, the public sector often faces issues such as limited resources, inadequate infrastructure, and staffing shortages, which can affect the quality and accessibility of care, particularly in rural areas.

Togo’s Public Hospitals

Public hospitals in Togo are primarily government-funded and are intended to provide accessible healthcare services to citizens. They are organized into a tiered system, including regional hospitals, district hospitals, and health centers. 

While public hospitals aim to offer comprehensive medical services, they often grapple with challenges such as limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, and staffing shortages. As a result, patients may experience longer waiting times and variable quality of care. 

Nonetheless, public medical facilities are crucial for the majority of the population, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare is more limited.

The best public hospitals in Togo are:

• Hospital of Hope
  • Address: Mango, Togo
  • Contact: +228 93 15 53 03
• Hospital Dogta-Lafie
  • Address: Eyadema, Lomé, Togo
  • Contact: +228 22 53 50 50
• Bé Hospital
  • Address: Avenue Augustino De Souza, Lomé, Togo
  • Contact: +228 22 21 70 71

Togo’s Private Hospitals

Private hospitals in Togo offer an alternative to the public healthcare system, often attracting expatriates and those who can afford to pay for higher-quality services. These facilities typically provide better amenities, shorter waiting times, and a wider range of specialized medical services. 

Many private hospitals are equipped with modern technology and staffed by experienced healthcare professionals. However, the cost of care in private hospitals can be significantly higher, which may limit access for lower-income individuals. 

The best private hospitals in Togo include:

• Clinique du Golfe
  • Address: Route Nationale N°1, Non loin de la Station Total Agoè, En face de Diamond Bank, Houmbi, Agoè, Lomé , Togo
  • Phone Number: +228 90 02 40 92
• Polyclinique de l'Atlantique
  • Address: Baguida, bateauvi non loin de BKBG, Lomé , Togo
  • Phone Number: +228 22 71 70 39
• Clinique Saint Joseph
  • Address: Bd. du Haho, Tokoin Hédzanawoé, Lomé, Togo
  • Phone Number: +228 22 26 72 32

Health Insurance Options in Togo for Expats

Expats in Togo have two health insurance options—public insurance and private insurance. Due to the insufficiency of public insurance coverage in Togo, many expats have topped up their healthcare coverage with private insurance.

Public Insurance in Togo

The government has established the National Health Insurance Scheme (CNAMU), which aims to cover basic healthcare services for citizens. This scheme is designed to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for medical care, making healthcare more accessible. 

This scheme faces challenges such as limited enrollment, inadequate funding, and insufficient awareness among the population. Benefits typically include coverage for hospital stays, consultations, and essential medications, but the range of services is constrained to hospital resources.

Private Insurance in Togo

Private insurance companies offer various plans that provide more extensive coverage than public options, including access to private hospitals, specialized treatments, and quicker service. 

Emergency evacuation is usually required for situations requiring medical attention outside of emergency care; therefore it is advised that a Togo health insurance plan, providing an emergency medical evacuation benefit, should be purchased in advance of departure.

Note: Due to the very limited local private health insurance options, arrangements must be made before travel.

Best Private Insurance Providers for Expats in Togo

Pacific Prime has been standing in the insurance industry for over 20 years, leveraging our strong partnerships and close collaborations with reputed insurance companies including MSH International, AXA Global, April International, and GeoBlue to provide insurance to expats in Togo. 

MSH International

MSH International offers flexible and comprehensive coverage specifically designed for expats in Togo. Their innovative, user-friendly mobile app provides essential healthcare tools at your fingertips, allowing you to easily find nearby medical providers and submit and track claims in real time.

• Inpatient treatment
• Hospitalization
• Cancer treatment
• Emergency evacuation

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AXA Global

AXA Global’s international health insurance provides expats in Togo with a variety of plans featuring different coverage levels and customizable additional benefits. They offer both short-term and long-term options, ensuring comprehensive protection for all medical needs.

• 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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April International

April International offers high-quality, affordable international health insurance for expats around the globe, including in Togo. Expats will benefit from a completely paperless reimbursement system that simplifies documentation and streamlines the claims process, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

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

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GeoBlue

GeoBlue provides extensive international health insurance plans designed for expatriates, travelers, and global citizens. Their policies grant access to a broad network of healthcare providers around the world, ensuring high-quality medical care and support in multiple locations.

• Diagnostic lab work and X-rays
• Surgery
• Inpatient medical emergencies
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation
• Yearly physicals

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Facts to Consider when Picking Insurance in Togo

When selecting international health insurance in Togo, 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 understand the terms of 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 Togo

Regional and worldwide health concerns in Togo include Avian flu, Typhoid, Lassa virus, Polio, Tuberculosis, and HIV. Water filters and purification tablets, iodine pills, sunscreen lotion, latex condoms, anti-diarrheal pills, and alcohol-based hand sanitizer should be carried with you.

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

• Pertussis and Tetanus (DPT)
• Polio
• Measles Mumps and Rubella (MMR) 
• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid 
• Rabies

Travelers to Togo above one year of age are required to have a Yellow fever vaccination—without such a vaccination you may be refused entry into the country. Meningococcal diseases pose a threat throughout Togo, and as such, all travelers are advised to receive a vaccination against meningitis.

Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a serious problem in Togo, with 930 cases per 100,000 population. It is estimated that approximately 50% of tuberculosis cases in Togo go unreported or are not tracked and that many are drug-resistant strains of the disease.

Malaria 

Togo contains some tropical environments and outbreaks of malaria are common. Precautionary measures include bringing anti-malarial pills and DEET insect repellents, using mosquito nets at night while sleeping, and wearing long-sleeved clothing while outside during the day. 

Insect-borne diseases

Togo is prone to other insect-borne diseases aside from Malaria. River Blindness (Onchocerciasis), leishmaniasis, filariasis, and African sleeping sickness (African trypanosomiasis) are all concerns throughout the country. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of coverage are available in international health insurance plans for expats in Togo?

Expats often want to know if plans cover inpatient and outpatient services, emergency medical care, maternity care, and repatriation. Understanding the specific coverage options is essential for selecting the right plan.

How does the claims process work for international health insurance in Togo?

Many expats are concerned about the claims process, including how to submit claims, the documentation required, and the timeline for reimbursements. Clarity on this process can significantly impact their overall experience.

Are pre-existing conditions covered by international health insurance for expats in Togo?

Expats frequently ask whether their pre-existing medical conditions will be covered under their insurance plans and what waiting periods or exclusions might apply. Understanding this can help them make informed decisions about their health coverage.

Compare Plans and Quotes in Togo Now

If you are planning to visit West Africa and Togo is on your itinerary, Pacific Prime can assist with your Togo travel health insurance or Togo health insurance needs. Our experienced and capable teams worldwide will provide a free consultation anytime.

We have been established in the insurance industry for over two decades, closely working with insurance companies worldwide to provide tailored insurance solutions that cover medical services including dental, maternity, specialist consultation, transportation, inpatient services, and more.