Health Insurance in Cameroon

The health system in Cameroon consists of both public and private medical facilities, and the Ministry of Health is responsible for setting policies and healthcare regulation.

State healthcare is financed through a mixture of government spending, out-of-pocket payments, international aid, NGOs, and public and private sector contributions.

Health insurance for expats in Cameroon

The health insurance system in Cameroon

Cameroon’s public healthcare system operates a decentralised system, which means that public healthcare services are managed and delivered at both a regional and district level.

Despite the launch of initiatives like the Health Sector Strategy (HSS) 2016 – 2027 that are designed to improve the quality of medical care in Cameroon, the public healthcare system still faces many challenges. These include:

• Underfunding

• A shortage of medical professionals

• Limited access in rural areas

• A high prevalence of infectious diseases

The Cameroonian government introduced its universal health cover program in April 2023, which is open to anyone living in the country. Its aim is to provide wider access to public health services for all its residents and citizens, though coverage is quite low currently as the program is still quite new.

Expats can also access state healthcare in Cameroon by paying out-of-pocket for their medical treatment. This can become quite costly and may cause financial stress, so it could be worth considering taking out a private health insurance plan.

For those looking to relocate to Cameroon, it can be a good idea to book a consultation with a doctor. They can provide guidance on things like medication planning, vaccination requirements and health risks in the region.

How to choose health insurance in Cameroon: local or international?

Expats could consider purchasing private health insurance to protect their health and wellbeing while living in Cameroon, and have two main options: local and international.

Choosing local private health insurance can mean that individuals avoid long waiting times for medical care and have access to more advanced medical treatment, but cover is generally limited to the country it was purchased in.

Another option is international private medical insurance (IPMI) cover, which can offer expats cover for a wider range of medical treatment than a traditional private health insurance plan. It also provides expats with a higher degree of flexibility, allowing them to access medical treatment at top medical facilities across the world within their chosen area of cover.

Click here to read more about the benefits of international health insurance.