Capital city in Kabul Province, Afghanistan
Healthcare in Kabul: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Kabul
Very limited facilities and frequent shortages. Carry medication and have full medical evacuation insurance, which many insurers exclude for Afghanistan.
Hospitals for foreigners in Kabul
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Emergency NGO Surgical Centre | Free trauma and war surgery; not general care |
| French Medical Institute for Children (FMIC) | Pediatric and some adult care; limited |
| Wazir Akbar Khan Hospital | Public hospital; limited supplies |
Key facts
- In Afghanistan: Very limited facilities; Kabul's few private clinics handle basics only, and ambulances may demand payment first. Evacuation insurance is essential.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies exist in cities, but shortages and counterfeits are common; bring all your medication.
- Health spending: US$59 per person a year (2023); 0.3 doctors per 1,000 people (2023), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 119 · Ambulance 102.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Afghanistan, 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 Kabul for foreigners?
Emergency NGO Surgical Centre: Free trauma and war surgery; not general care
Do I need travel insurance for Afghanistan?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Afghanistan expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Kabul
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Afghanistan
- UK FCDO: Afghanistan travel advice
- US State Department: Afghanistan advisory
- Ariana Afghan Airlines
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 Spotted something out of date?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.