Public health care is in principle, widely available to all Namibians. In Namibia, approximately 85 percent of the population is covered by public health insurance, while the remaining 15 percent have private insurance plans.

Both public and private medical providers within Namibia have publicly committed themselves to successful public-private partnerships in the country’s healthcare sector.

Medical facilities comparable to international standards can be found in the Namibian capital, Windhoek, and in other large towns.

There are state run hospitals in all major towns, and the majority of medical practitioners are educated to international standards. Healthcare centres and mobile clinics operate in smaller towns, villages and rural settlements.

Windhoek boasts two public, three private hospitals and approximately 80 percent of Namibia’s medical specialists are based in the city. Many doctors, hospitals and private clinics will expect up-front payment in cash, regardless of whether or not you possess health insurance covering Namibia.

A wide range of medicines and drugs can be purchased in Windhoek and pharmacists strictly adhere to the standards set by the American Food and Drug organisation with all imported medication controlled for distribution by the local Drug Control Board.

A sparse and widespread population has resulted in considerably more air evacuation than in most other countries. Medical emergency evacuation services extend to all corners of Namibia.

They are supported by a well-developed air industry, landing strips and a well-maintained road network. Serious medical problems that cannot be treated in Windhoek require a short air-evacuation to South Africa.

Namibia suffers from three major diseases HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. The HIV/AIDS epidemic is a major problem in Namibia. Although infection rates are much lower than most of its neighbours in Sub-Saharan Africa, approximately 13 percent of the population is infected by HIV.

Malaria is prevalent throughout northern half of the country, with the general rule being to take adequate precautions against the disease when traveling to any area north of the capital Windhoek.

The issue of malaria appears to be directly connected to the AIDS epidemic. Researchers have shown that in Namibia the risk of contracting malaria is 14.5 percent greater if a person is also infected with HIV.

The risk of death from malaria is also raised by approximately 50 percent with a simultaneous HIV infection.

With HIV/Aids infection rates so high in Namibia, coupled with a growing malaria problem, a large proportion of the government health budget is set aside for HIV/AIDS and malaria treatment.

Individuals requiring emergency services should dial 211-111. The International SOS (ISOS) operate a 24-hour emergency centre in Windhoek, including a fleet of air ambulances and dedicated road response vehicles. 

If you will be living in Windhoek, anti-malarial medication is not required, but it is recommended for anyone living north of this point — especially in the peak malaria season between November and June.