Healthcare System in Morocco: everything you need to know

How does the Moroccan healthcare system operate?

The healthcare system in Morocco consists of a public sector with universal care and a private sector. The state is responsible for the majority of health care expenditures in public hospitals, which account for 85% of all local health service. The remaining 15% are private hospitals financed mainly by payments from affiliates.

The main hospitals and clinics are located in the larger cities such as Rabat, Casablanca and Tangier. There is a compulsory health plan for state employees and those of private companies. If you work for the state, you must register with CNOPS and employees of private companies with CNSS.

Although the country offers universal health care to its residents, the quality of service is not very good and people often have many problems receiving care. Government coverage, which covers between 70%-90% of treatment, only covers those who receive care in the public system. The remaining percentage must be paid out of pocket by the patient.

Compulsory insurance provides coverage for the following services: maternity, medical treatment for children under 12, chronic diseases, paramedical diagnostic tests, X-rays, hospitalization, outpatient surgery, dental and optical treatments.

How does the system work for foreigners?

As a foreigner, if you are going to live in Morocco, the recommendation is to join the private health system. Although the prices may be high, there you will receive the best care and will have the best doctors and facilities available in case you require medical attention.  

It is possible that because of your job, you may be obliged to pay a fee to the mandatory public health system. However, you should hire private insurance additionally. A good option may be an international health insurance with coverage in Morocco. This will allow you to be treated in the best clinics and not have to deal with the waiting times and low quality of the local public system.

On the other hand, if you are traveling to Morocco for tourism, it is very important that you hire travel insurance in case you suffer any medical emergencies during your trip. This will offer you a reimbursement for the services you receive in a private clinic.

To purchase the best medical insurance for your stay in Morocco, visit InternationalHealth.com, where you can compare, quote and purchase insurance at no additional cost and completely online. 

What do I do if I have an emergency in Morocco?

For medical or fire assistance in Morocco, you can call 150. If you need police assistance, dial 190 from any local phone.

It is important to have the number of the embassy of your country of nationality at hand. They will also be able to assist you and help you with various formalities if required.

In the following link you will find a series of telephone numbers for different embassies in Morocco. 

How do pharmacies operate in Morocco?

If you are entering the country with medication, it is advisable to bring a doctor's prescription in case you are asked for it at customs.

Most over-the-counter medications are readily available in the large number of pharmacies throughout the country, especially in the major cities. Morocco has the second largest pharmacy network in Africa.

If you are affiliated with the local system, you will have to pay a small fee for prescription drugs. And if you are not affiliated with the local system, you will still be able to get the drugs at a much lower price than in Western countries.

Entry requirements

There are no restrictions to enter Morocco as a result of Covid-19. You will be asked to fill out a health questionnaire upon entry.

The World Health Organization recommends travelers to have the following vaccinations before traveling to Morocco: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, polio and tetanus.