Healthcare system Zambia

Zambia’s public healthcare system is very basic by first-world standards and suffers from inadequate funding and a lack of infrastructure and facilities, especially in rural areas. There are good private hospitals in Livingstone and Lusaka and if you have any kind of medical emergency you’ll be transferred there as soon as possible. For very serious or on-going treatment, patients may require evacuation to South Africa which has the best medical facilities in the region. Treatment and evacuation costs are expensive, however, so comprehensive healthcare insurance is essential.

For less serious medical issues, pharmacies can be found in the major cities, but are extremely scarce in rural areas. Even in the cities, the range of drugs and supplies can be limited and very few are open on Sundays. Ensure you have a comprehensive first-aid kit before travelling into remote areas.