The Healthcare System in Sri Lanka
An effective, universally applicable, and low-cost healthcare system has been put in place by the Sri Lankan government for its citizens. Its USP is its prompt public delivery which gives curative and preventive therapy for all. The Ministry of Health runs the healthcare system.
General Practitioner/Doctor
In case of minor ailments and illnesses, medications over the counter are available and self-treatment is often enough. However, it would be prudent to check the expiry date on all medicines before purchasing it.
In case the illness is of a severe nature, like malaria, it is advisable to seek professional medical help. Major operations and emergencies are treated in Colombo.
Private clinics and hospitals like Colombo's Nawalok Hospital are better equipped to deal with expats as the doctors speak English. Most embassies and consulates also give references of medical practitioners suitable for foreign residents of Sri Lanka.
How to Find a DOCTOR?
The easiest way to locate a doctor is by consulting the listings below:
- lankainformation.lk/directory/top-listings/professions/doctors/
- lankadoctor.com
- www.echannelling.com/Echannelling/index
As always, it is helpful to get personal recommendations for contacts in Sri Lanka. Embassies and consulates also give references of medical practitioners suitable for foreign residents of Sri Lanka.
One must get an appointment to meet the doctor for a consultation. Prior registration is not required with private practitioners.
If you need to ask about what kind of medical help you need, you can ask online at:
www.mydoctor.lk/.
Dentists in Colombo
Dental care is generally good in Sri Lanka. It has even become a destination for dental tourism.
To find a dentist you can look up the following listings:
- www.slda.lk/public/find-a-dentist
- lankainformation.lk/directory/health/doctors/dental-surgeon
- http://rainbowpages.lk/health/dental-specialists/
Update 22/07/2018
Expatriate health insurance in Sri Lanka
With so much to deal with before leaving your home country, (taxes, moving house, paperwork etc.) the careful planning of your expatriation to Colombo is an essential step. As far as healthcare is concerned, your local social security scheme won’t be accompanying you to your host country and, once abroad, you might be surprised by the care system you find in Sri Lanka So, before leaving, make sure you have appropriate cover!
Cigna is one of the world's biggest international insurers with more than 30 years' experience in providing global health insurance across 200 countries and territories. They have access to more than 1.65 million hospitals, physicians, clinics and specialists worldwide.
Cigna Global's flexible plans are specifically designed for expats and globally mobile individuals who move to Sri Lanka. All their plans can be tailored to your individual requirements in Sri Lanka, always finding the right healthcare solution, whatever the situation and budget.
Getting a health insurance quote
Create your perfect plan with Cigna and combine the reassurance of comprehensive inpatient cover with the flexibility of optional extra benefits.
Click on the button to access the online tool and get a quote in 2 minutes.