Healthcare in Morocco for expats
The Moroccan social security system covers the salaried for illness, maternity, disability, pensions, and death, as well as offering family benefits.
Civil servants are taken care of by the “Caisse nationale des organismes de prévoyance sociale” (CNOPS). Those in the private sector are covered by the “Caisse nationale de sécurité sociale” (CNSS) and are obliged to sign up to the “Assurance maladie obligatoire” (AMO). The funding of this system is paid through contributions made by both the employer and the employee.
Those of a lower income are covered by the “Régime d’assistance médicale aux personnes économiquement démunies” (RAMED).
What does the compulsory Moroccan health insurance cover?
The compulsory medical insurance covers maternity, costs incurred in relation to children under 12 years old, the follow-up of chronic conditions, diagnostic tests, x-rays, hospitalisation, outpatient surgery, dental, optical, and paramedical treatment as well as other medical cover.
The State covers between 70% – 90% of costs (depending on the treatment); the rest is paid by the patient.
The Moroccan health care system only covers costs incurred within the public sector. However, this sector can be dysfunctional and the quality of care is dependent on the hospital in which you are treated. This is why it is advisable, if possible, to be treated within the private sector for which a private medical insurance can be indispensable.
The limits of the Moroccan healthcare system
The Moroccan healthcare system is theoretically universal and comprehensive, however in reality having access to a high quality of care is not guaranteed. Overall, Morocco lacks doctors and equipment meaning that certain emergency services are severely impaired. There are also significant inequalities between the health infrastructure between the large towns and the more rural areas. It is recommended to always seek a second opinion before any important surgery.
For these reasons, it is recommended where possible to be treated within the private sector or abroad for certain treatments, for which an adapted international health insurance for Morocco would be advised.
International health insurance for expats in Morocco
If you decide to sign up for a private medical cover, an international health insurance for Morocco is more suited to the expat lifestyle than a local health insurance.
An international health insurance gives you the opportunity to seek treatment in the medical facilities or with the doctors of your choice, whether in Morocco or abroad. Choosing an international insurance with a coverage area beyond Morocco is the best option for people preferring to seek treatment abroad or in their country of origin in case of a specific medical problem.
Moreover, if you leave Morocco and move elsewhere, your international health insurance may be able to follow you, unlike a Moroccan health insurance which is only valid locally.
It is important to note that an expat insurance in Morocco will not exempt you from subscribing to the Moroccan healthcare system if it is obligatory for you.
Please note that expat health insurance plans are more expensive than local insurance plans. For people over 60 years, private health insurance becomes extremely expensive and international insurers don’t accept new clients over 70 years old (for some insurers, the age limit for the application is 65 years old).
Related publications
YOUNA IHS helps you decide the most appropriate global health insurance tailored to your situation and needs. Don’t hesitate to contact us for your personalized health benefits solutions.
