City in Eastern Cape, South Africa
Healthcare in Port Elizabeth: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Port Elizabeth
Good private hospitals; public hospitals are crowded. For emergencies call 112 or ER24.
Hospitals for foreigners in Port Elizabeth
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Netcare Greenacres Hospital | Private hospital with emergency unit in Greenacres |
| Life St George's Hospital | Private hospital in Central with emergency care |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: R450–900 ($27–54) 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 Port Elizabeth for foreigners?
Netcare Greenacres Hospital: Private hospital with emergency unit in Greenacres
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Port Elizabeth?
About R450–900 ($27–54) 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 Port Elizabeth
- Healthcare & insuranceacross South Africa
- Safetyin Port Elizabeth
- Cost of livingin Port Elizabeth
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- Solo travelin Port Elizabeth
Going to Port Elizabeth solo?
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: South Africa
- Airports Company South Africa
- Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism
- South African National Parks
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.