Healthcare for Expats in Morocco

Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias

Morocco is becoming an increasingly popular destination for expatriates, particularly the French, drawn by its pleasant climate, affordable cost of living, and cultural richness. However, before settling in a new country, it is essential to learn about the local healthcare system and the options available to expatriates. Here is a comprehensive guide to healthcare in Morocco for expatriates.

A Healthcare System Undergoing Significant Change

In recent years, Morocco has made significant investments to modernize its healthcare system. The country now has over 140 public hospitals and 400 private clinics, offering a capacity of more than 15,000 beds.

The Booming Private Sector

There is strong growth in the private healthcare sector in Morocco. Between 2017 and 2022, the number of beds in private clinics increased by 50%, while it decreased by 1% in public hospitals. This trend is partly explained by the adoption in 2015 of “Law 131-13,” which opened up clinic ownership to private investors.

Persistent Disparities

Despite these advances, inequalities remain between major cities and rural areas in terms of access to care. The public system still suffers from a shortage of staff and equipment in some regions.

Good to know:

Morocco is becoming a popular destination for medical tourism, particularly for dental care or cosmetic surgery, thanks to attractive prices and modern clinics.

Quality of Care: Can You Get Good Treatment in Morocco?

The quality of care in Morocco varies considerably between the public and private sectors.

The Public Sector: Challenges to Overcome

  • Shortage of qualified medical staff
  • Sometimes outdated equipment
  • Long waiting lines
  • Uneven quality of service depending on the facility

The Private Sector: A Quality Alternative

  • Modern, well-maintained equipment
  • Highly qualified medical staff
  • Reduced waiting times
  • Better patient comfort

For expatriates, it is generally recommended to favor the private sector to benefit from higher quality care. Some private clinics in Morocco even rival European standards in terms of equipment and medical expertise.

Good to know:

For major or specialized procedures, it may be wise to seek a second medical opinion, or even consider a medical evacuation to France or another European country.

Healthcare Budget: How Much to Plan for Medical Care in Morocco?

Healthcare costs in Morocco are generally more affordable than in Europe, but can vary considerably between the public and private sectors.

Some examples of prices:

– General practitioner consultation: 150-200 dirhams (about 14-19 euros) – Specialist consultation: 250-350 dirhams (about 23-32 euros) – Day of hospitalization: from 300 dirhams in the public sector, up to 1500 dirhams or more in the private sector

The Importance of Health Insurance

Although prices are lower than in Europe, costs can quickly add up in the event of hospitalization or serious illness. It is therefore highly recommended for expatriates to take out international health insurance offering comprehensive coverage.

The cost of international health insurance for an expatriate in Morocco can vary depending on age and the level of coverage chosen. As an indication, for a 65-year-old, you should budget from 314 euros per month.

Good to know:

Some international health insurance plans also allow you to receive treatment in France or other countries, offering valuable flexibility for expatriates.

Top 5 Best Private Clinics in Morocco

Here is a selection of reputable private clinics in Morocco, particularly appreciated by expatriates:

1. Clinique Averroès (Marrakech): A multidisciplinary facility with 48 beds, offering specialized medical care for nearly 40 years.

2. Hôpital Privé Casablanca Ain Sebaa: A modern facility with over 220 beds, offering a wide range of medical and surgical services.

3. Centre International d’Oncologie de Casablanca: Specializing in cancer treatment, this center offers a multidisciplinary approach with state-of-the-art equipment.

4. Clinique Longchamps (Casablanca): Part of the Akdital Group, specializing in neurocardiology and offering an extensive range of medical specialties.

5. Clinique Agdal (Rabat): A modern facility offering a variety of medical and surgical services, appreciated for the quality of its care.

These clinics are recognized for their level of equipment, the quality of their medical staff, and their patient-centered approach.

Good to know:

Before choosing a clinic, don’t hesitate to ask the local expatriate community for feedback and experiences.

Tips for Getting Good Medical Care in Morocco as an Expatriate

To optimize your medical care in Morocco, here are some recommendations:

1. Take out international health insurance: This is the best option for comprehensive and flexible coverage.

2. Favor the private sector: For higher quality care and reduced waiting times.

3. Build a network of trusted doctors: Ask for recommendations from other expatriates or your insurance provider.

4. Budget for medical evacuations: In case of a serious condition requiring repatriation.

5. Stay vigilant about hygiene: Particularly regarding water and food to avoid certain common illnesses.

6. Get vaccinated: Make sure your vaccinations are up to date before settling in Morocco.

By following these tips and choosing suitable health coverage, you can enjoy your expatriation in Morocco with peace of mind while benefiting from quality care.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. We encourage you to consult qualified experts before making any investment, real estate, or expatriation decisions. Although we strive to maintain up-to-date and accurate information, we do not guarantee the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the proposed content. As investment and expatriation involve risks, we disclaim any liability for potential losses or damages arising from the use of this site. Your use of this site confirms your acceptance of these terms and your understanding of the associated risks.

About the author
Cyril Jarnias

Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.

On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.

Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.

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