Healthcare in Jordan

Public healthcare in Jordan is primarily available to citizens and permanent residents, although expats can also access care if they hold the appropriate long-term visa or are enrolled in the national health insurance scheme. You should check your visa or residency status to confirm eligibility for treatment in public hospitals or clinics.

The quality of care in public facilities can vary. In major cities such as Amman and Irbid, hospitals and clinics are generally staffed by qualified doctors and nurses, and many facilities have modern equipment. However, wait times can still be long, particularly for non-emergency services. Rural areas tend to have more basic facilities with fewer specialised services.

Healthcare costs in the public system are typically low, with many services subsidised or involving a small copay. Expats who aren’t covered by the national scheme might need to pay out-of-pocket fees, particularly for specialist care or certain medications.

Accessing public healthcare usually requires registration or presenting identification, such as a residence permit or visa. Requirements can differ by facility, so it’s advisable to confirm in advance.

There are some limitations of the public healthcare system to be aware of. English is widely spoken in major hospitals, but language barriers might exist in smaller towns. Overcrowding is common in urban hospitals, which can affect waiting times and the level of attention received. Coverage gaps for certain treatments or specialised care can also occur, which is why many expats consider private  international health insurance for more comprehensive protection.

Private healthcare in Jordan offers a number of advantages over the public system, particularly for expats. You will generally benefit from shorter wait times, higher levels of comfort, and widely available English-speaking staff, which can make navigating medical care much easier. Private facilities are often better equipped, provide more readily available specialist services, and maintain a more consistent standard of care.

Costs in private healthcare are higher than in public facilities and can vary depending on the service and location. Routine consultations typically range from 20 to 50 JOD, while specialist treatments, diagnostic tests, or hospital stays can be significantly more expensive.

Popular private hospitals and clinics are mainly located in Amman and other major cities. Well-known facilities include King Abdullah University Hospital, Al Khalidi Hospital and Medical Center, Jordan Hospital, and The Specialty Hospital, which are often preferred by expats due to their high service standards and familiarity with international patients.

Having private health insurance is strongly recommended, as it ensures you can access the full range of services without high out-of-pocket costs. Many expats opt for international health insurance plans that cover both routine care and emergency treatment in Jordan.

Health insurance is not mandatory for expats in Jordan, but it is often recommended. Having coverage will ensure you can access high-quality care, particularly in private hospitals, without facing significant out-of-pocket costs.

You can choose between local and international health insurance plans. Local plans are often more affordable but might have limited coverage and fewer English-speaking providers. International plans, on the other hand, generally offer broader protection, including hospitalisation, outpatient care, emergency evacuation, and repatriation, which can make them a safer option for expats who want more comprehensive coverage.

Typical coverage includes doctor consultations, hospital stays, diagnostic tests, and emergency care. Exclusions often include pre-existing conditions, elective cosmetic procedures, and some specialised treatments. Costs vary depending on age, coverage level, and provider, but a typical international plan for a healthy adult can range from a few hundred to over a thousand US dollars per year. Policies can usually be purchased directly from insurance providers or through brokers specialising in expat coverage.

A number of private hospitals in Jordan meet international standards and maintain strong reputations among expats for quality care. Public hospitals provide competent medical staff, but equipment and facilities can vary between locations. Major urban centres generally offer the best standards of care.

English-speaking staff are widely available in private hospitals, and many larger public hospitals in cities also have English-speaking personnel. In smaller towns or rural areas, communication can be more challenging, so it can be best to confirm language support in advance of treatment where possible.

Some of the leading private hospitals in Jordan include King Abdullah University Hospital, Arab Medical Centre, Jordan Hospital, and Specialty Hospital, all located in urban areas, including Amman and Ar-Ramtha. These facilities are often preferred by expats due to their high service standards and familiarity with international patients.

Hospitals in Jordan provide emergency care, specialist consultations, surgery, maternity services, and diagnostic testing. Many private hospitals also offer private room options for added comfort.

Private hospitals often accept walk-ins for general consultations, although referrals may be needed for specialised care. It’s also important to note that, often, getting a consultation from a clinic is better to avoid high hospital costs. Public hospitals typically require a referral from a local doctor. In emergencies, patients can access either public or private facilities directly.

Outpatient consultations in private hospitals typically range from 20 to 50 JOD, while inpatient care costs vary depending on the facility and services required. Public hospital services are usually subsidised for residents but can involve fees for expats who aren’t covered by national health insurance.

Private hospitals in Jordan generally offer private rooms with modern amenities. Public hospitals usually provide standard wards with basic facilities, which can be crowded at times.

Most private hospitals accept international or local health insurance, although some might require upfront payment before reimbursement later. Public hospitals typically do not accept foreign insurance directly, so coverage should be confirmed in advance.

Jordan does not require any specific vaccinations for entry for most travellers, but certain vaccines are recommended depending on your activities or length of stay. These can include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies if you plan to spend time in rural areas or have close contact with animals. You should also ensure you are up to date on routine vaccinations such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza. While

You should consult a travel health clinic or your doctor well in advance so you can obtain tailored advice based on your health history, travel plans, and any underlying conditions. Carrying a personal record of your vaccinations can also be helpful if you need to access healthcare services while in Jordan.

In Jordan, the main health concerns for residents and travellers are generally related to food, water, and seasonal illnesses. Gastrointestinal issues, including food poisoning, diarrhoea, and hepatitis A, can occur, especially if consuming undercooked food, street food, or untreated water. Respiratory infections such as colds, seasonal flu, and other viral infections are also common, particularly in crowded urban areas.

Other health considerations include heat-related illnesses during the summer months, such as dehydration or heat exhaustion, particularly if you spend long periods outdoors. Road safety is another important factor, as traffic accidents are a notable cause of injury.

Preventive measures include practising good hand hygiene, drinking bottled or treated water, avoiding raw or poorly prepared food, and keeping up to date with routine vaccinations. During hot weather, you should wear light clothing, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged sun exposure to help reduce the risk of heat-related issues.