City in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Healthcare in Durban: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Durban
Good private hospitals; pay or show insurance. Public hospitals are crowded. For emergencies call 112 or ER24.
Hospitals for foreigners in Durban
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Netcare Umhlanga Hospital | Private hospital with emergency unit in Umhlanga |
| Life Entabeni Hospital | Private hospital in Berea with emergency department |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: R500–1,000 ($30–60) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In South Africa: Private hospitals (Netcare, Mediclinic, Life) are excellent but costly without insurance; public hospitals are overstretched. Malaria risk around Kruger and the far northeast.
- Pharmacies: Clicks and Dis-Chem are everywhere, many with nurse clinics; antibiotics and many medicines need a prescription.
- Health spending: US$537 per person a year (2023); 0.8 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 10111 · Ambulance 10177 · All emergencies 112.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter South Africa, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Durban for foreigners?
Netcare Umhlanga Hospital: Private hospital with emergency unit in Umhlanga
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Durban?
About R500–1,000 ($30–60) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for South Africa?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in South Africa expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Durban
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: South Africa
- Airports Company South Africa
- eThekwini Municipality
- Durban Tourism
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.