Healthcare in Cambodia
Cambodia's healthcare system ranges from basic public facilities to international-standard private hospitals. With proper insurance and knowledge of available services, expats can access quality medical care.
Healthcare Overview
Cambodia's healthcare system has improved significantly in recent years, particularly in Phnom Penh where several international-standard hospitals serve the expat community. However, healthcare quality varies dramatically between facilities, and understanding your options is essential.
For routine care and minor issues, private hospitals in Phnom Penh are adequate. For serious conditions, complex surgeries, or specialized treatment, most expats travel to Bangkok (1-hour flight) or Singapore, which is why medical evacuation coverage is crucial.
Essential Advice
Always have international health insurance with medical evacuation coverage.Even if you're healthy, accidents happen. Medical evacuation to Bangkok costs $10,000-20,000+.
Hospitals & Clinics
Private international hospitals are the go-to choice for expats. They offer English-speaking staff, foreign-trained doctors, modern equipment, and direct insurance billing.
| Hospital | City | Phone | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Phnom Penh Hospital | Phnom Penh | 023 991 000 | Best overall, 24/7 ER, foreign doctors |
| Sunrise Japan Hospital | Phnom Penh | 023 260 152 | Japanese standards, excellent diagnostics |
| Sen Sok International Hospital | Phnom Penh | 023 883 712 | Newer facility, good specialists |
| Royal Angkor International Hospital | Siem Reap | 063 761 888 | Best in Siem Reap, Bangkok Hospital affiliate |
| Sihanoukville International Hospital | Sihanoukville | 034 933 116 | Limited services, evacuation may be needed |
Public vs Private Healthcare
Public Hospitals
- • Very low cost or free
- • Often overcrowded
- • Limited English
- • Basic equipment
- • Long wait times
Private International
- • Higher cost (still affordable)
- • English-speaking staff
- • Modern facilities
- • Direct insurance billing
- • Shorter wait times
Health Insurance
Health insurance is essential for anyone living in Cambodia. Options range from basic local policies to comprehensive international coverage.
| Provider | Type | Coverage | From |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cigna Global | International | Worldwide | $150 |
| Allianz Care | International | Worldwide | $180 |
| LUMA Health | Regional | SE Asia + evac | $80 |
| Forte Insurance | Local | Cambodia only | $40 |
Insurance Tips
- • Get quotes from 3-5 providers before deciding
- • Ensure medical evacuation is included (to Bangkok/Singapore)
- • Check if pre-existing conditions are covered after waiting period
- • Verify direct billing with hospitals you plan to use
Medical Costs
Medical costs in Cambodia are significantly lower than Western countries, but vary dramatically between public and private facilities.
| Service | Local/Public | Private Int'l |
|---|---|---|
| GP Consultation | $5-15 | $40-80 |
| Specialist Visit | $10-30 | $60-150 |
| Blood Tests (basic) | $10-30 | $50-100 |
| X-Ray | $10-20 | $40-80 |
| MRI Scan | N/A | $300-500 |
| Hospital Room/Night | $20-50 | $100-300 |
| Minor Surgery | $100-300 | $500-2,000 |
Pharmacies
Pharmacies are abundant throughout Cambodia. Many medications available only by prescription in Western countries can be purchased over the counter here.
Key Points
- Quality varies: Stick to reputable pharmacy chains in cities
- Expiry dates: Always check—some stock may be old or improperly stored
- Counterfeits exist: Buy from established pharmacies, not street vendors
- Bring prescriptions: For controlled medications, bring prescriptions and original packaging
Medication Quality
For critical medications (heart, diabetes, psychiatric), bring a 6-month supply from home or source from reputable international pharmacies. Quality and authenticity of local medications can be inconsistent.
Emergency Care
In an emergency, head directly to a private hospital if possible. Public ambulance services are limited and slow. Many expats use taxis or tuk-tuks for faster transport.
Emergency Numbers
- Ambulance: 119 (limited service)
- Royal PP Hospital: 023 991 000
- International SOS: 023 216 911
What to Do
- • Go directly to nearest private hospital
- • Call your insurance emergency line
- • Have passport and insurance card ready
- • Consider evacuation for serious cases
Specialists & Dentists
Specialist care is available in Phnom Penh, including cardiologists, orthopedists, dermatologists, and gynecologists. Quality dental care is also widely available.
Dental Care
Cambodia has become a destination for dental tourism due to significantly lower costs. Quality clinics offer modern equipment and internationally trained dentists.
- Cleaning: $20-40
- Filling: $20-50
- Crown: $150-300
- Implant: $500-1,000
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Guides
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