Healthcare in Libya
As a result of international sanctions, only lifted in 2004, healthcare in Libya has had to evolve almost entirely independently of international influence. Though these public and private sectors have managed without the help of a global presence thus far, the absence of aid has left plenty of room for improvement. It is highly likely that healthcare in Libya will be considered sub-par by many expats.
The system remains mediocre predominately due to the fact that Libya is a low-middle income country. According to statistics, Libya only spends 3.3 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on healthcare. This ranks the nation 170 out of 185 countries where data was collected – lower than nearly all North African countries.
Even Libyan locals often pursue medical facilities abroad for the more chronic conditions that plague the country’s population – such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
Thus, it is highly recommended that expats consider medical options abroad if a serious condition arises. That means your medical insurance package should provide for emergency repatriation.
The system remains mediocre predominately due to the fact that Libya is a low-middle income country. According to statistics, Libya only spends 3.3 percent of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on healthcare. This ranks the nation 170 out of 185 countries where data was collected – lower than nearly all North African countries.
Even Libyan locals often pursue medical facilities abroad for the more chronic conditions that plague the country’s population – such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
Thus, it is highly recommended that expats consider medical options abroad if a serious condition arises. That means your medical insurance package should provide for emergency repatriation.
Medical facilities in Libya
Medical facilities in Libya are limited and it is essential for expats to become a member of a private clinic.
The Medilink Clinic in Tripoli is staffed by English-speaking expat doctors, and is a popular choice of those accustomed to Western standards of healthcare. The clinic offers family services, ER services and is equipped with modern ambulances to boot. Medilink is a “members only” private clinic that functions according to either a basic membership and pay-as-you-go service fees, or all-inclusive style membership. Many of the oil company and other corporate employees and their families are known to be paying members.
Health insurance in Libya
I's important that expats have private health insurance while in Libya, but nonetheless, many times doctors will expect payment in cash immediately. Still, private healthcare provides superior service and shorter waiting times compared to the erratic public services.
Make sure that a private health insurance provider is negotiated as part of your contract.
Soon after arrival in Libya you should register yourself at a clinic of your choice. Carry the clinic card on your person as a means of identification in case of an accident.
Recommended heathcare facilities in Libya
Medilink International
Tripoli Clinic
Shara Hasi Messaoud
Suq El Gbub, Ghirgharesh
Tripoli
Tel: (+218) 483 7292
Fax: (+218) 483 0491
Swiss Diagnostic Clinic
Jraba Street
Ben Ashour Area
Tripoli
Tel: (+218) 91 320-5816
Fax: (+218) 21 361-9692
Saint James Hospital
Wesayat El Beideri
Ben Ashour Area
Tripoli
Tel: (+218) 21 362-0242
Fax: (+218) 21 362-0241
Tripoli Clinic
Airport High Way Road, KM 10
Nearby Briqa Oil Company
P.O Box 1070
Tripoli
Tel: (+218) 21 360-8402
Jraba Street
Ben Ashour Area
Tripoli
Tel: (+218) 91 320-5816
Fax: (+218) 21 361-9692
Saint James Hospital
Wesayat El Beideri
Ben Ashour Area
Tripoli
Tel: (+218) 21 362-0242
Fax: (+218) 21 362-0241
Tripoli Clinic
Airport High Way Road, KM 10
Nearby Briqa Oil Company
P.O Box 1070
Tripoli
Tel: (+218) 21 360-8402
