How does the healthcare system work in Qatar, and which travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does the health and healthcare system work in Qatar?

Health care in Qatar is of excellent quality, perhaps one of the best in the world. The country has a modern healthcare system that is heavily funded by the government.
Doha has the most medical facilities, but care is also readily available in other parts of the country.

PHCC (Primary Health Care Corporation; the largest provider in Qatar) and HMC (Hamad Medical Corporation) provide the public health care system in Qatar. PHCC runs regional health centers, HMC runs public hospitals, clinics and provides ambulance services.
Due to government subsidies, the healthcare system has a relatively low premium for residents from Gulf countries. International visitors and expats do need to arrange their own health insurance before arrival through an (international) insurance provider accredited by the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH). You do need to ask the MoPH for permission in advance if you want, or need, to arrange this yourself.
If you are in Qatar for work, your employer must arrange health insurance for you and your family. Please note; even then you will always face care and other services that are not covered (think repatriation, wider treatment choices, etc.) Private (additional) coverage can fill in the gaps and offer a wider choice of coverage.

There are several private clinics and hospitals throughout the country.
Care is very expensive, so make sure you are properly insured.
You do often get help faster, the health care staff are more likely to speak English, and you sometimes have access to more specialized care services.

The first point of non-urgent care is your family doctor. You can find this at your local PHCC health center, of which there are several dozen scattered throughout Qatar.
You can use the Nar'aakom app to make an appointment. Opening hours are usually from early morning to late evening and from Sunday to Thursday.

You will also find the dentist in most PHCC health centers and in some public hospitals. There are also many private clinics that offer more extensive treatments, but the cost is higher.
Regular checks usually take place once a year.

In recent years, there has been more focus on mental health care.
There is a mental health helpline (16000) from the government, where you can get help and be referred.

Pregnancy outside a marriage is illegal - every year several expat women are arrested and imprisoned for this reason.
Abortion is allowed only under specific circumstances.
Pregnancy is totally related to hospital care, home birth is illegal.
Private hospitals have more staff and let you choose a specific doctor, but are more expensive. Public hospitals have better facilities for higher-risk pregnancies, but you come by appointment with whoever is available and they are busier. So be sure to ask advice from other expats about who or what they recommend.
Maternity care is not mandatory and check-ups are done at the hospital or a clinic.
Always bring your passport, marriage certificate, Qatar ID and insurance ID.
Breastfeeding in public is allowed, though it is advisable to have a covering cloth with you.

Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world for expats, provided you follow the rules - this is where you are most at risk.
However, there is risk of regional escalation and possible attacks from terrorist groups. So keep a close eye on the situation.
Be aware of the political situation and make sure you are aware of what is going on and what it is better not to say anything about (Dutch people can be quite opinionated which is not always appreciated). Also make sure you know the local traditions and religious rules well.
It is not common but there is a risk regarding sexual harassment for women. Subsequent care is not always good for women in Qatar.
There are also many rules regarding relationships. For example, public affection is not allowed, as is cohabitation if you are not married. In addition, homosexuality is also illegal.

The biggest risk is the extreme heat. So make sure you drink enough and don't stay too long in the sun.
The water is drinkable, yet many people drink bottled water because of taste and concerns about pipes in old buildings. You can also bring a water filter.

Traffic is not too safe in Qatar. Traffic discipline is few and far between, speeds are high and accidents are common.
Contrary to what you may be used to, flashing your front lights can mean that a car will go through instead of giving you the right of way.
If you go into the desert, always make sure you have plenty of water, drive in a convoy with other cars and leave your travel plans with friends or family.

Is the trip to Qatar and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

You are required to purchase your own medical/repatriation insurance if you are staying longer than one month, but note that it must meet local requirements. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.