Living as an expat in the Middle East can be an exciting and enriching experience. With access to new cultures, foods, and opportunities, many expats find themselves thriving in this region. However, one area where the Middle East falls short is in providing adequate primary healthcare for expats.
What is Primary Healthcare?
Primary healthcare is defined as the first level of healthcare that is delivered to patients. It encompasses preventive and curative care for a variety of conditions and is typically the first point of contact for patients seeking medical attention. In many countries around the world, primary healthcare is easily accessible and affordable for both locals and expats alike. However, in the Middle East, this is often not the case.
The Challenge.
In many Middle Eastern countries, the healthcare system is still developing, and resources are limited. As a result, there is a shortage of general practitioners and primary care physicians, making it challenging for expats to find a doctor who can provide them with comprehensive care. Instead, many expats end up going to emergency rooms or specialist clinics for their medical needs, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
It can also be challenging for expats to find a doctor who speaks their language. Many expats come from countries where English is the primary language, and they may struggle to communicate effectively with doctors who speak Arabic or another language. This can make it difficult for expats to understand their diagnosis and treatment options, which can lead to further complications down the line.
Furthermore, the lack of primary healthcare can also be a barrier to preventive care. Expats may face difficulties in access to routine check-ups and screenings that can detect health issues before they become more severe. This can lead to a higher risk of chronic diseases and other health problems in the long run.
What to do.
So, what can you do to overcome these obstacles? One option is to do your research before moving to the Middle East. Make sure you have access to comprehensive health insurance. Additionally, you can look for doctors who specialize in treating expats or who have experience working with patients from different countries. In terms of research and information, personal impressions come first: 56% and 55% of study participants trust the experiences of acquaintances or Google reviews – recommendations from insurance companies and social media fall significantly short.
Stranzinger, Z., 2020. Perception of Healthcare in Dubai. Dissertation
Another option is to take advantage of telemedicine services. Many healthcare providers in the Middle East now offer virtual consultations, which can be a convenient way for expats to receive medical advice and treatment without having to leave their homes.
MEED, 2019.
In conclusion, the lack of general practitioners and primary healthcare can be a significant obstacle for expats living in the Middle East. However, with some careful planning and research, expats can find ways to overcome these challenges and access the care they need to stay healthy and happy abroad.
GCC healthcare news:
BAH: The five-star 125 bed King Hamad American Mission Hospital was officially launched on 14 March, 2023 in A` Ali.
QAT: Qatar's Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has opened its 31st facility: The Al Sadd Health Center in Doha which is set to serve 35,000 patients.
KSA: Saudi German Health has inaugurated their 300 bed hospital as part of Makkah's Batterjee Medical City. The facility features an ICU, surgery rooms, a dialysis center with 30 chairs and 100 outpatient clinics.