When you are in need of medical treatment on holiday in another country it can be stressful and confusing. Fortunately, the standard of healthcare in Kuwait is excellent and is comparable to that received in the US and Europe.
The topic of how much foreigners should pay for medical treatment in Kuwait is highly topical. In October 2017 the Kuwaiti Government introduced new charges for foreigners receiving medical care.
The government believe that their healthcare system has been exploited by foreigners looking for cheap and free medical services. The higher fees make it even more important for visitors to to get medical insurance when traveling to kuwait as well as a Kuwait visa.
What to do in an emergency in Kuwait
The phone number for emergencies in Kuwait is 112, like in many countries, and the operators can speak English. Ambulances are only used in genuine emergencies and most people make their own way to the hospital if they can. Ambulances are normally only used for road accidents, it is generally quicker to go by taxi or car.
Medical insurance for Kuwait
If you go on holiday there make sure you get private health insurance for Kuwait. The charges for receiving medical treatment are very high whereas the cost of a policy for a short trip is relatively low.
Do not take the risk of going there without Kuwait medical insurance. Unless you are from a non visa-exempt country it is also necessary to obtain travel authorization to enter the country. The Kuwait online visa application only takes a few minutes to complete.
Getting medical treatment in Kuwait
Healthcare in Kuwait is regulated by the Ministry of Public Health (MOH).
There are public and private health care providers which offer excellent treatment.
Primary health care is provided by clinics which are usually found in community centers. For more serious cases or if you need a more specific type of medical test in Kuwait, the clinic doctors refer patients to the hospital. These clinics deal with routine matters, for emergencies in Kuwait dial 112 or go directly to a hospital.
Non-residents can visit any of the clinics. It is important to bring your passport and a copy of your insurance policy. For a list of clinics contact your nearest embassy or consulate.
Buying medicine in Kuwait
You can buy basic non-prescription medicines like cough syrup in supermarkets. However, other medicines and drugs which are widely available in the US and Europe, such as sleeping pills, are prohibited in Kuwait. Visitors should bring the medicine they need with them, along with a prescription and a letter from their doctor.
Medical tourism in Kuwait
As part of an effort to crackdown on medical tourism in Kuwait, the government has increased the costs of healthcare for foreigners. It is now much more expensive to pay for medical care if you need it while on a trip there.
Before October 1 last year it was possible to receive many treatments for free or for a small cost, it no longer is. Make sure you get medical insurance for kuwait before you set off.
Watch out for the heat
Kuwait’s climate is very hot and it can be dangerous. Try not to spend long periods in direct sunlight and stay hydrated. If you are not from a hot country, heat stroke and dehydration are real possibilities if you are not careful.
