Health Insurance in Kenya for Expats
Kenya is one of the most popular destinations for expats in Africa. Even expats who don’t live there will still find themselves visiting occasionally. Kenya is a hub of commerce, transportation, and, yes, healthcare for East Africa.
In recent years, Kenya’s healthcare system has seen significant improvement. Nairobi, in particular, has several well-regarded hospitals. According to the 2021 Global Health Security Index, Kenya placed 84th among 195 countries. However, those without health insurance in Kenya often struggle to receive timely and comprehensive care.
The 2021 GHS Index Country Profile for Kenya ranked Kenya at 84 out of 195.
For global nomads considering a move to Kenya, prioritizing their health should be at the forefront of their minds. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind before you go.
Find the Best International Medical Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes from top insurers
- Get expert advice at no additional cost
- Find the right plan for your needs and budget
Overview of Kenya’s National Health System
Kenya’s healthcare system combines government-funded public services, services funded by charities, and private services funded by for-profit organizations. Although Kenya has not yet achieved universal healthcare, the government is making progress on its primary goal of expanding universal healthcare coverage on key services, including maternal, neonatal, and child health services.
On the public side, the Kenyan healthcare system is administered by the National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF). The NHIF is funded primarily through compulsory payments by those employed in the formal employment sector, like civil servants. It also has a membership option for those in the informal or self-employed sector and options for retirees.
Patients receive healthcare through clinics, hospitals, or dispensaries. Dispensaries are much more than pharmacies. Run by nurses, they provide free services to those with uncomplicated medical conditions, like malaria, dermatological problems, and colds. Patients are referred to a community clinic or a district hospital for more serious conditions.
Things You Need to Know When Considering Insurance in Kenya
Nearly all international citizens in Kenya opt to carry private health insurance. While the country has many good hospitals, the overall standards of comfort and cleanliness fall short of what expatriates are used to. Opting for private coverage means shorter wait times to see specialists and being treated in more modern facilities.
Many expats in rural Kenya opt to sign up for a membership with a “flying doctor” organization if it’s not already included in their main insurance policy. Organizations like AMREF (African Medical and Research Foundation) Flying Doctors operate throughout Kenya and eastern Africa. They can provide on-the-spot treatment or arrange urgent transportation to a hospital as needed.
Benefits of a Private Global Medical Insurance Plan
A private global medical insurance plan with evacuation coverage can save tens of thousands of dollars in a medical emergency. Serious medical problems in Kenya often require medical evacuation. Injured or sick people in rural areas could require an airlift to Mombasa or Nairobi. Additionally, a further airlift to South Africa would be necessary if appropriate specialist care isn’t available in Kenya’s major cities.
Best Health Insurance Plan for Expats and Visitors in Kenya
William Russell Health Insurance
- Worldwide coverage with access to private hospitals and trusted medical networks.
- Comprehensive benefits, covering inpatient care, outpatient treatment, mental health, and emergency evacuation.
- Flexible plan levels that let expats choose the coverage and budget that fit their lifestyle.
IMG Global Prima Medical Insurance
- Five flexible plan levels with optional add-ons
- Choose your coverage area based on where you live or travel
- Freedom to select your healthcare provider anywhere in the world
Best Health Insurance Plans for US Expats in Kenya
BCBS Global Solutions Worldwide Premier
- Unlimited annual and lifetime coverage
- Pre-existing conditions covered with prior insurance
- For U.S. citizens abroad or foreign nationals in the U.S.
Pros and Cons of Using Public Health Services in Kenya
Kenya’s public medical services are affordable and staffed with English-speaking professionals. However, for most, the quality of care and facilities falls short of the standards they’re used to. There is a severe shortage of physicians and other healthcare professionals in Kenya. This causes significant waiting times. Outdated equipment and limited supplies are other ongoing problems for the healthcare system.
The standards of private clinics and private hospitals vary. In some, especially those that cater to wealthy expatriates, diplomats, and tourists, the quality of care is excellent. In others, the care is adequate and above the standards found in the public services. However, it may be lacking in some regards.
The wait times may be longer than what’s found at most private facilities. As well, the diagnostic equipment might be older. While public healthcare is generally very affordable in Kenya, private healthcare is comparatively costly. Global medical insurance is critically important.
Public Health Concerns in Kenya
Kenya is home to some severe health concerns. Both expats and tourists should be aware of the risks and take appropriate precautions. For instance, anyone moving to Kenya must have a yellow fever vaccination. They must carry their certificate at all times when traveling in or out of the country. Visitors and residents should visit a travel clinic before departure to ensure they are current on all routine and travel-specific vaccines.
Other preventative measures include protection from mosquitoes. Malaria is a deadly concern in Kenya, especially in rural areas. Another serious concern is HIV and AIDS. Kenya is home to one of the most serious HIV epidemics in the world. However, encouraging progress has been made with a government-led retroviral program and widespread testing.
How to Qualify for Healthcare in Kenya
Civil servants in Kenya are required to join the National Hospital Insurance Fund. However, you don’t have to be working for the government in order to take advantage of NHIF’s services. Expats in both formal and informal employment and retirees are eligible to join.
How to Apply for the National Hospital Insurance Fund
Kenya’s National Hospital Insurance Fund, or NHIF, offers well-organized online services for local and foreign residents. Foreign residents who want to join the NHIF must bring copies of their passport and work permit, plus colored passport photos, to their local NHIF office.
For global nomads who have private medical insurance, signing up for the NHIF is of little benefit. On the odd occasion where it might be quicker and easier to have a simple consultation at a community dispensary, paying in cash is affordable. However, as Kenya’s healthcare system slowly improves and universal healthcare expands, the NHIF could be attractive.
How Routine Medical Visits Work
Dispensaries serve as the first point of contact for many Kenyans seeking healthcare. Staffed by qualified nurses, they handle non-urgent medical issues and provide trusted advice on everyday health concerns.
While expatriates typically find greater comfort in private facilities, connecting with a neighborhood dispensary has distinct advantages. Local nurses often share community updates and important health information, and in rural areas, they may be the only source of medical support. Visiting your local dispensary is usually the quickest and most convenient option for minor issues.
One thing that all expats will want to avoid, however, is the informal network of roadside-style pharmacies, which dispense medication – real and fake – with little if any qualified healthcare advice. The government-run dispensaries are the best choice.
Online healthcare is growing in popularity in Kenya, which is especially beneficial for people who live in rural areas. My 1Health is an online platform that helps users search for doctors and specialists, compare options, and conveniently book appointments online.
Find the Best International Medical Insurance
- Compare multiple quotes from top insurers
- Get expert advice at no additional cost
- Find the right plan for your needs and budget
Joe Cronin, President of ICI, is a leading expert in international health, life, and travel insurance. An MBA and founder of multiple global businesses, he helps expatriates and travelers access trusted, comprehensive insurance solutions worldwide.
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