Capital city in Western Area, Sierra Leone
Healthcare in Freetown: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Freetown
Private care is basic by international standards. Evacuation is required for serious cases; carry insurance with medevac.
Hospitals for foreigners in Freetown
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Choithram Memorial Hospital | Largest private hospital in Freetown |
| Connaught Hospital | Main public hospital; crowded |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: Le400–1,200 ($16–49) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Sierra Leone: Care is basic, with a few private clinics in Freetown. Malaria is a year-round risk; serious cases need evacuation, so insurance is important.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies are common in Freetown; check expiry dates and avoid street-sold medicine.
- Health spending: US$36 per person a year (2023); 0.1 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 999.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Sierra Leone, 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 Freetown for foreigners?
Choithram Memorial Hospital: Largest private hospital in Freetown
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Freetown?
About Le400–1,200 ($16–49) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Sierra Leone?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Sierra Leone expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Freetown
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Sierra Leone
- Sierra Leone National Tourist Board
- Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary
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 Spotted something out of date?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.