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Seychelles General News |
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The Seychelles has developed a profitable tourist industry, derived from the natural gift the country has of golden beaches, blue sea, clear skies, lush mountains and array of wildlife. The country has steadily grown since the 1970's and is now opening up to non-millionaires; although still an expensive destination, it has become more accessible to more people.
The Seychelles is classed as an upper middle-income country and met most of the criteria for the UN Millennium Developments Goals. By the end of 2007, the literacy rate was 96% and the life expectancy averaged 72 years; these figures exceeded the majority of other African countries. However, the medical care facilities in the Seychelles are still limited and do not match those of more developed nations standards of healthcare. Nevertheless, over the last 30 years significant improvements have been made to the healthcare system for the Seychelles, both in terms of better standards and affordability.
The Ministry of Health is a governmental organization with the goal to provide Seychellois with affordable and accessible healthcare service. Seychellois will receive free primary healthcare, with the government and healthcare system providing measures to prevent and treat diseases, endemic and epidemic in the country. The government has improved the healthcare facilities in the country for its citizens, but still lacks the standards normally expected in more developed nations. The healthcare is only available for Seychellois who are registered citizens; all non-residents will need to pay for treatment received, while in the Seychelles.
In the capital Victoria, there is a referral hospital which provides the best healthcare facilities in the country. However, it cannot be compared to developed nations hospitals as the facilities are only able to meet medical treatment to a certain level. If you were to need vital medical care the main hospital will be able to handle certain medical needs, however international governments strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive medical insurance cover to safeguard against medical treatment you may require and ensure that any policy obtained is able to provide emergency evacuation to a country that can provide a center of medical excellence.
With the Seychelles comprising 115 islands scattered in the Indian Ocean, it means that the healthcare availability across the country is restricted in some areas. In some parts of the country, there is no medical care and no physicians available to assist patients. It is important to ensure you take measures to protect yourself from becoming ill, thus lowing the risk of requiring medical treatment. This includes; only drink bottle or boiled water, avoid ice in drinks, use protection against mosquitoes and be diligent when swimming in the sea. Also prior to your trip to the Seychelles, it is important to consult a doctor to ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date, if any outbreaks of contagious illness has occurred, and details any other health risks you may be exposed to while in the country. It is important to ensure all prevention measures are taken to keep you from potential risk.
As an expatriate or holidaymaker to the Seychelles, you are responsible for any medical treatment you may receive while in the country. It is important you take out full comprehensive cover including medical cover, which includes emergency medical evacuation, as the cost for these services can amount to thousands of dollars, and the patient is liable for payment.
Key points to note regarding the medical care system in the Seychelles is that the main hospital in Victoria is government run and the treatment is free for Seychellois who hold residency in the country; there are several private clinics across the county. All tourists and expatriates will need to pay for treatment received in private or public healthcare. Mosquito-borne Chikunguya virus was reported to be present in the country in recent years although there is no vaccination to counteract this. However, you should take preventative measures to lower the risk from mosquito bites. Another source of illness is via infected contaminated water; therefore, ensure you only drink water that is sanitized.
If you are looking for peace-of-mind knowing that medical costs will be covered in case of an accident or illness, to yourself and your family, while traveling to Seychelles, an international medical insurance will be the optimal solution for you. Policies can be tailor-made to ensure all your needs are met, giving you flexibility while in the Seychelles. Should you require further information on the Seychelles, global medical insurance, or receive a free consultation, please do not hesitate to call one of our expert advisers now. |
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