What’s good to know about Healthcare in Zambia
I should probably start this with a bit of context…
Before moving to Zambia, my only “recce” trip had been a visit to Victoria Falls in my twenties. Fast forward a few years, and when we got the exciting news that we’d be relocating, I was just seven days out of hospital after having our second son.
What followed was, unsurprisingly, a slightly chaotic blur of newborn life, post-partum haze, and packing up an entire life to move countries.
Naturally, the “worry pot” in me went into overdrive. I packed what can only be described as a small pharmacy. At one point, I’m fairly sure I looked like I was attempting to smuggle penicillin across borders.
The reality once we arrived in Lusaka, however, has been very different and far less dramatic.
We’ve been very fortunate not to need any serious emergency care, but for day-to-day health needs, Zambia has been incredibly manageable. Pharmacies are widely available, and access to medication is generally straightforward. You may not always find the exact brand you’re used to, but there are good generic alternatives readily available. And if you’re set on something specific, it can usually be ordered in.
For general medical care, we’ve found great support locally. Our go-to GP is based at Mary Begg Health Services in Lusaka, and they’ve helped us with everything from malaria tests to stitching up our little boy’s eyebrow (never a dull moment…).
While I wouldn’t feel comfortable commenting on specialist care or more complex medical cases - everyone’s needs and experiences will differ - what I can say is that routine healthcare has been both accessible and very affordable.
Like many things here, it might not always look exactly like what you’re used to, but it works and often better than you expect.
Useful Healthcare Contacts in Lusaka
If you’re new to Zambia or just looking for options, here are a few helpful resources:
GP & Emergency Services: Mary Begg Health Services
Paediatric Clinic: Pendleton Children’s Clinic
Dentist: Aesthetic Dental Edge
Private Hospitals with emergency options:
