Capital city in Islamabad Capital Territory, Pakistan
Healthcare in Islamabad: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Islamabad
The best healthcare in Pakistan outside Karachi. Ambulances (1122) respond fairly fast in the city.
Hospitals for foreigners in Islamabad
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Shifa International Hospital | H-8; the best private hospital for visitors |
| PIMS | Large public hospital; crowded, basic emergency care |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: Rs2,000–6,000 ($7–22) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Pakistan: Good private hospitals in Karachi (Aga Khan University Hospital), Islamabad (Shifa International) and Lahore; public hospitals are crowded. Mountain areas have basic care and slow evacuation.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies are common in cities and sell most drugs over the counter; carry essentials in the mountains.
- Health spending: US$30 per person a year (2023); 1.2 doctors per 1,000 people (2021), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 15 · Ambulance 1122 · Fire 16.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Pakistan, 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 Islamabad for foreigners?
Shifa International Hospital: H-8; the best private hospital for visitors
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Islamabad?
About Rs2,000–6,000 ($7–22) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Pakistan?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Pakistan expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Islamabad
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Pakistan
- Pakistan Online Visa System (NADRA)
- Islamabad International Airport (CAA)
- Shifa International Hospital
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 Spotted something out of date?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.