International Health Insurance for Expats in Morocco

Have you thought about your health insurance for your expatriation to Morocco? While the Cherifian Kingdom’s healthcare system does not (yet?) shine on the global stage, it is true that it has gone through significant improvements over the past two decades, promising further progress alongside the development of medical tourism. How the system works, access for expatriates, healthcare costs, best hospitals… Global Health offers you an overview of Morocco’s healthcare system.

A mixed healthcare system undergoing improvement

Morocco’s healthcare system is a mixed system: managed and regulated by the State, the public sector coexists with a rapidly expanding private sector, especially in urban areas. The public system, universal in scope, is managed by the Mandatory Health Insurance scheme (AMO), the basic public health insurance that covers employees, retirees, and self-employed workers residing in the country.

To be covered by the AMO, residents must affiliate either with the Moroccan Health Insurance Fund (CMAM) (for public-sector employees) or with the National Social Security Fund (CNSS) (for private-sector employees or self-employed workers). Employers generally take care of the enrolment procedure.

There are also local private health insurance companies offering more comprehensive and flexible coverage than Morocco’s public health insurance.

As a resident in the country, you are required to affiliate with the AMO. However, like many expatriates, you may also take out additional international health insurance, or – like locals with sufficient financial resources – a local private insurance policy for better coverage, particularly in the private sector.

In terms of medical infrastructure, public and private hospitals and clinics coexist, particularly in urban areas. They offer varying levels of quality and cater to different purposes and patient groups.

What quality of healthcare can you expect?

The quality of healthcare services varies greatly depending on the type of infrastructure. In public medical facilities, whose mission is to provide universal access and treat as many patients as possible, the quality of care can vary significantly depending on the provider. Facilities suffering from operational issues often face severe staff shortages, outdated medical equipment, and limited financial resources. That said, there are public university hospitals that are well known for their expertise and the quality of care provided in several specialties.

In the private sector, which is expanding rapidly, the quality of medical services is generally very good, supported by modern technical facilities and high-performing teams. These factors enhance the fluidity of the patient journey and the efficiency of healthcare.

Disparities also exist between large cities and rural areas. While in urban centers such as Rabat or Casablanca medical services are easily accessible and of good quality, access to care in disadvantaged regions such as Drâa-Tafilalet remains difficult. These remote areas are, however, experiencing gradual modernization of infrastructure and initiatives aimed at bringing medical services closer to populations to improve access to healthcare.

How much does healthcare cost in Morocco?

The cost of healthcare services depends on the type of provider (public or private), the healthcare professional, and the health coverage available to the patient. As an indication, the cost of a consultation with a general practitioner ranges between 150 and 300 MAD, and between 250 and 400 MAD for a specialist. One day of hospitalization costs on average between 1,500 and 3,000 MAD, and the price of childbirth in a private clinic can reach 15,000 MAD. (1 MAD = 0.09 EUR)

Even for those affiliated with the AMO, healthcare is not free; out-of-pocket costs may be more or less significant depending on the reference reimbursement rates (which are not systematically updated). The AMO generally covers at least 70% of routine care and hospitalization costs based on Moroccan reference tariffs.

It is important to note that in the public sector, healthcare costs are very affordable, whereas in the private sector, depending on the establishment and the type of care provided – particularly specialized services – costs can rise quickly. Prices reflect the quality of medical care provided.

Where can you go for healthcare?

You will be able to find a local or internationally renowned healthcare provider that meets your needs, depending on the medical specialty you are looking for, in both the public and private sectors.

Public sector:

• Mohammed VI International University Hospital in Bouskoura (multi-site, multi-specialty facility)
• Ibn Rochd University Hospital Centre in Casablanca (large multi-specialty university hospital)
• Ibn Sina University Hospital Center in Rabat (the largest university hospital in Morocco), comprising 10 medical facilities, some grouped by specialty

Private sector:

• Cheikh Khalifa International University Hospital in Casablanca (multi-site facility welcoming an international patient base)
• Tangier Private Hospital (a very large hospital offering many specialized services)
• Marrakech International Clinic (a highly renowned multi-specialty facility, particularly known for its expertise in cardiology and its emergency department)

What is the health situation in Morocco?

The Land of the Rising Sun presents no particular health risks. While there are no mandatory vaccines, it is recommended to update your vaccination schedule before

departure and, for long-term expatriation, to receive vaccinations against hepatitis A and B. As in other countries in Asia, South America, and the Middle East, it is advisable to avoid drinking tap water.

The pros of getting international health insurance:

• Better reimbursement of healthcare costs in both public and private sectors
• Freedom to choose the healthcare provider of your choice
• It covers your health beyond Morocco’s borders
• You get faster medical care from the very beginning of your expatriation to Morocco
• Peace of mind – sounds good, doesn’t it?

Choosing Global Health for your expatriation to Morocco

Global Health’s specialty? Covering the health of expats all over the world. We provide solutions tailored to your profile, lifestyle, and plans, offering you and your loved ones comprehensive, flexible, and effective coverage in Morocco, in your home country, and worldwide, across a wide range of healthcare services. Not only are you free to choose the practitioner or healthcare facility that suits you, but you also benefit from medical assistance 24/7.

To find out more and discover which health coverage plan is right for you, please contact our team of experts now! For a worry-free relocation, they will help you find the one best suited to your project.