Morocco, a beautiful and diverse country in North Africa, has made significant strides in improving its healthcare system over the years. Healthcare in Morocco is provided through both public and private sectors, with the public sector offering services at no cost or very low cost for its citizens. However, a common question among foreign nationals is whether they can access these public healthcare services or if they are required to rely on private healthcare options. In this article, we will explore the healthcare system in Morocco, the rights of foreigners to access free healthcare, and whether they need to seek private health services.
The Moroccan Healthcare System
Morocco’s healthcare system is divided into two main sectors: public and private. The public healthcare sector is funded by the government and provides healthcare services at low or no cost to Moroccan citizens. This includes hospitals, health centers, and clinics spread across the country. The private healthcare sector consists of private hospitals, clinics, and healthcare providers that charge higher fees compared to public healthcare services.
The public healthcare system aims to serve the majority of the population, especially those who cannot afford private healthcare. However, there are challenges such as overcrowding, long waiting times, and sometimes a lack of modern equipment in public facilities, which is why many Moroccans and expatriates prefer private healthcare.
Access to Public Healthcare for Foreigners
In general, foreign nationals in Morocco are not eligible for the free healthcare services offered by the state in public hospitals and health centers. These services are primarily intended for Moroccan citizens or legal residents who are registered in the country’s health insurance system (CNSS – Caisse Nationale de Sécurité Sociale). Therefore, unless you are a legal resident with health insurance under the Moroccan social security system, you would not be entitled to use public healthcare services for free.
However, this does not mean that foreigners are entirely excluded from Morocco’s healthcare system. Foreign residents in Morocco who are working or have obtained legal residency may be eligible for state-run health insurance, which would allow them to access public healthcare facilities at a subsidized rate.
Health Insurance for Foreign Residents
For foreigners who have legal residency in Morocco, the government provides access to health insurance schemes that cover medical treatment and hospitalization. This insurance, known as RAMED (Régime d’Assistance Médicale), is designed for low-income individuals and is often extended to legal foreign residents who meet certain criteria.
For foreigners with work permits or business owners who contribute to the Moroccan social security system, they are entitled to social health insurance, which covers a variety of medical services in public healthcare institutions. This allows them to access public healthcare facilities at a significantly reduced cost or for free, depending on their coverage and eligibility.
For individuals who are not eligible for these insurance programs, healthcare in public hospitals is typically not free, and they would need to pay out-of-pocket for medical services. The cost of medical care in public facilities is still lower than in private institutions, but it can still be significant depending on the type of treatment needed.
Private Healthcare for Foreigners
Since many foreigners in Morocco are not covered under the public health system, they often choose to use private healthcare services. The private healthcare sector in Morocco is well-developed, with modern hospitals, clinics, and private doctors offering high-quality medical care. These private facilities tend to be more efficient, with shorter waiting times, and often have better access to the latest medical technologies.
The downside to private healthcare is the cost. Unlike public healthcare, which is subsidized by the government, private healthcare services come with higher fees. Foreigners who are not part of Morocco’s national health insurance system will need to pay the full cost of services, which can vary widely depending on the provider and the treatment required.
Medical Tourism in Morocco
In addition to offering healthcare services to its residents, Morocco has also become a popular destination for medical tourism. Many foreigners travel to Morocco for medical procedures such as dental work, cosmetic surgery, and elective surgeries due to the relatively affordable rates and high standards of care in private hospitals. Medical tourism has seen a steady increase in Morocco over the years, as the country offers quality medical care at a fraction of the cost compared to many Western countries.
While public hospitals in Morocco may not be an option for tourists or short-term visitors, private hospitals cater to medical tourists, providing specialized services to foreigners.
Conclusion
In conclusion, foreign nationals who are not legal residents or do not contribute to Morocco’s social security system are generally not eligible for free healthcare services provided by the government in public hospitals and health centers. However, foreigners who are residents and contribute to Morocco’s social security system may qualify for state-sponsored health insurance and subsidized healthcare. For those who are not eligible for public healthcare, private healthcare services are widely available but at a higher cost.
It is important for foreigners in Morocco to understand their rights and options regarding healthcare services. If you are planning to live or work in Morocco, it is advisable to obtain health insurance coverage to ensure that you have access to the best medical services, whether public or private, and to avoid unexpected medical costs.
M. Rami Maki,
Business Consultant