In Saudi Arabia, health insurance can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. However, for a resident, an expat, or planning to visit, understanding how the healthcare system works is key. You must know how insurance fits into the picture to ensure you get the care you need when you need it.
For instance, the good news is healthcare is free for Saudi citizens and public sector workers. It doesn’t mean that non-nationals can’t access it, most non-nationals arrange private health coverage. If you’re one of them then arranging health insurance is integral to your move to the Kingdom as some kind of health insurance is obligatory for everyone in Saudi Arabia.
This guide is a perfect example of the ins and outs of health insurance in Saudi Arabia. You’ll learn:
- How healthcare works in the Kingdom
- The types of health insurance available,
- Your eligibility to apply for it, and
- How Company Formation Saudia helps you
Make informed decisions about your health and peace of mind as we’re going to break down everything in detail.
Overview of Healthcare Facilities in Saudia Arabia
Saudi’s public and private healthcare offers good quality. The health care system of the kingdom serves over 31 million residents, including millions of visitors during Hajj and Umrah through:
—> Medical Cities
—> University and military hospitals
—> Specialized hospitals
—> Primary care centers, and
—> Other facilities
Here’s a table summarizing the key facts about healthcare and health insurance in Saudi Arabia:
| Key Fact | Details |
| Ministry of Health’s Contribution | Provides 60% of healthcare services in Saudi Arabia |
| Government Healthcare and Social Development Spending (2022) | $36.8 billion, 14.4% of the Kingdom’s annual budget |
| Health Care Index Score | 61.4 (measuring the quality of healthcare infrastructure, services, and resources) |
| Number of Health Insurance Firms | 26 health insurance companies operating in Saudi Arabia |
Health insurance is obligatory for everyone whether it be a resident or non-resident. The Council for Cooperative Health Insurance (CCHI) oversees the Saudi insurance system. According to them, all private sector companies provide health insurance coverage for their workers and dependents. Luckily, Saudi Arabia offers free healthcare to its citizens and public sector workers, while expats use private healthcare. Valid health insurance is a key to your residence permit. You can take out additional private policies as desired or required.
Registration Process for Private Healthcare
To register, it is a simple and straightforward process. It should be done through your employer. A health insurance card will be granted that you can use for private healthcare services and facilities. These may include doctors, hospitals, and therapists..There is no standard procedure to follow, just gather and submit the following details.:
- A passport or other valid photo ID
- Proof of address
- Residence permit or visa
Health insurance cardholder receives shorter waiting times. They can better access English-speaking staff. Plus, insurance premiums plans available for under $2000 per year. They can get heavily subsidized medications.
How to Check Health Insurance in Saudi Arabia
The steps given to check the status and expiry date of your Saudi health insurance are:
- Firstly, visit the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance (CCHI) website.
- Then, enter your Iqama/Border number in the Identity Number section.
- Now, enter the verification code on the image.
- Lastly, click on ‘OK’ to continue.
Finding Healthcare Providers in Saudi Arabia
Locating doctors in Saudi Arabia is not as hard as a needle in a haystack. Several doctors and specialists are available in the Kingdom. Some of the popular specialisms are cardiology, ear, nose, and throat specialists, ophthalmologists, orthopedics, urologists, and others.
However, to find a doctor, you can use your country’s embassy or health insurance firm or you can check on the CCHI website.
How Private Healthcare Works in Saudi
Typically, health insurance provided by an employer is based on a co-payment system. It means you’re expected to pay something toward your treatments. The policy you use decides the amount. The health plans vary in terms of comprehensiveness and price. It is advisable to check yours carefully. It must cover everything you anticipate, such as:
- Dental work or
- Maternity costs, and
- Your financial contribution will be what you expect.
Mostly, affordable policies may not be entertained by reputable hospitals and clinics. Double-check this aspect of your health insurance coverage to avoid any disruption. In case your insurance package doesn’t cover all your needs, you need to negotiate a more tailored package. You can buy add-on coverage to fill any gaps.
Well-known Health Services across the Kingdom
Saudi Arabia takes their resident’s health seriously. For this, they deliver varied health services across various initiatives. We have shared some of the most well-known and widely used health services, including:
1. Sehatty App
Ministry of Health (MOH) introduced Sehatty. The platform facilitates secure information sharing. It’s a great platform to access various health sector entities in Saudi Arabia.
2. 937 & 997
937 is a free direct line that will provide you with:
- Health information
- Medical advice, and
- Instructions, as well as medical consultations.
Additionally, a 997 is the primary number for emergency ambulance services. The number provides rapid response and free emergency transportation.
Citizens can book appointments for coronavirus testing at fixed or mobile locations via the Sehhaty app. Through the app, you can register to receive the coronavirus vaccine once you become a resident.
4. Medical Consultation & Mental Counseling
Medical consultations are just at your fingertips by using the Sehatty app. You can access to medical, mental, and psychological advice and consultations from experienced doctors working 24/7. Furthermore, the National Center for Mental Health Promotion provides supervised, specialized counseling. It is provided via the Qareebon app.
5. Treatment for Outsiders
The MOH is responsible for patients’ and their companion expenses. The Ministry of Health takes care during their treatment period if undergoing domestic or abroad patient treatment transfer. The service facilitates:
- Inquiring about abroad treatment requests, or
- Following up on this transaction.
6. Medicine Dispensation
The Ministry of Health approves some commercial pharmacies. They may distribute medicines via the Wasfaty electronic prescription service.
Hire Company Formation Saudia To Acquire Cheapest Health Insurance in Saudi Arabia
Hiring a Company Formation services in Saudi Arabia can be a smart move for you! Especially, if you’re looking to secure health insurance for your business or employees. Our services help from scratch to the end. From streamlining the process of establishing a company to ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Not only this, our dedicated team offers guidance on the best health insurance plans for your needs. They take close notice of the requirements and thus deliver customized solutions. So, whether you’re setting up a new venture or expanding an existing one, a professional service can assist you in smoothly passing on Saudi Arabia’s insurance market. The aim behind this is to make it easier to acquire the right coverage for your team and ensure their well-being is prioritized from day one.