How does the healthcare system work in Djibouti?

What is the quality of healthcare in Djibouti?

• Djibouti is one of the poorer countries in Africa and unfortunately this is reflected in the healthcare system. Trauma care? Doesn't exist. Ambulances? Nope. So in the event of a serious accident, a medical evacuation to a neighbouring country or even Europe is not an unnecessary luxury, but a life-saving plan B.
• Outside the capital, there are only a few places where you can get care. And if you do find something, the infrastructure and staff are often not very good.
• In general, you have to pay in advance and in cash if you need medical treatment. So make sure you always have money on you.
• There are no emergency services in Djibouti.

How does the public healthcare system work in Djibouti?

• The public healthcare system consists of three levels: some 39 primary care dispensaries, five health districts with hospitals and medical centres and the central level with several larger and specialist hospitals.
• The most important hospital is the Hospital Generele Peltier, which offers primary and secondary care.

How does the private healthcare system work in Djibouti?

• Foreigners usually opt for private clinics in Djibouti city. Sounds luxurious, but that is disappointing: here too, resources are scarce, doctors are overworked, and medical records are sometimes still on a notepad.
• There are a few private hospitals in the capital, but for serious complaints, the rule is: book a ticket abroad.

How is the general practitioner arranged in Djibouti?

• There is no GP system in Djibouti, but there are a few private centres where you can go if you need a GP.

How is the dentist arranged in Djibouti?

• Dental care is even more limited than regular care. There are a few clinics in the capital, but don't expect too much from them.
• Most foreigners opt for dental care somewhere not in Djibouti, abroad or their home country.

How is pregnancy care arranged in Djibouti?

• The maternal and infant mortality rates have decreased in recent years, but are still quite high. This is partly due to outdated and limited equipment and poor procedures.
• Women in rural areas are very dependent on their community and local, older women for maternity care.
• Good maternity care for expats is hard to find. It may therefore be wise to think about a pregnancy abroad.

How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Djibouti?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Djibouti?

• The safety situation in Djibouti varies. The people are incredibly friendly, but there are several risks to take into account.
• There is a risk of terrorist attacks.
• Landmines can be found on and around the roads in the north.
• Petty crime is relatively rare (at least less than in surrounding countries), but it is there. 
• It is better to avoid traveling alone during daytime and when it is dark, especially in Dorale and Khor Ambado. 
• Be prepared for an earthquake. 

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Djibouti?

• Like most countries in Africa, Djibouti also has quite a few health risks. 
• Malaria and dengue are common in Djibouti. 
• There are also many cases of HIV/AIDS.
• Other risks include hepatitis, cholera, chikungunya, rabies, tuberculosis, etc.
• Due to the heat, you run the risk of dehydration and heat stress. 

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Djibouti?

• Driving in Djibouti is not the least challenging. There are various dangers on the road, including people and cattle that can just walk on the street. Driving outside Djibouti city at night is especially discouraged because the roads are of extremely poor quality.
• And if you do venture out onto the roads outside Djibouti city, make sure you have a four-wheel drive car!
• Many drivers drive too fast, chaotically and ignore traffic lights…
• Unlike diesel, gas is not easy to get outside Djibouti city.
• The use of buses and taxis is often discouraged for safety reasons. 

What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Djibouti?

• Is the trip to Djibouti 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.

What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Djibouti if you are going to live there for a while?

• For a (long) stay in Djibouti, good international health insurance is an absolute must because you run a high risk of needing medical evacuation or repatriation.
• Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.