Living abroad comes with unique challenges, and one of the most critical aspects of settling in a foreign country is accessing healthcare services. Each country has its own healthcare system, which can be daunting to navigate, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local procedures. This guide is tailored for Nigerians living in the diaspora, or Nigerians intending to relocate abroad, as it offers offers tips on how to manage your health and access medical services in countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands.
1. Understanding the Healthcare System in Your Host Country
Before accessing healthcare abroad, it’s essential to understand how the system operates in your host country. This can vary significantly, especially in terms of costs, availability of services, and whether healthcare is public or private.
United States
In the U.S., healthcare is predominantly private and insurance-based. The cost of healthcare is often high, so having comprehensive health insurance is essential. Without insurance, a simple doctor’s visit or hospital stay can result in hefty bills.
What to Do: Secure health insurance as soon as possible, whether through an employer, a private plan, or government programs like Medicaid if you’re eligible. When choosing a plan, ensure it covers both emergency and routine care, as well as specialist services.
Canada
Canada operates a publicly funded healthcare system, also known as Medicare, which provides universal coverage for most residents. However, each province manages its healthcare independently, so the specifics can vary depending on where you live.
What to Do: You must register for a provincial health card to access medical services, as this will grant you coverage for most necessary healthcare. Be aware that while the public system covers many services, things like dental care and prescription drugs may not be included.
United Kingdom
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) provides healthcare to residents, funded through taxes. It offers a range of free services, from GP visits to hospital treatments. However, some services like dental care or certain prescriptions may require additional payment.
What to Do: As a resident, you can register with a local GP to access free healthcare. Make sure to register with the NHS upon arrival, as this will make accessing services more straightforward.
Netherlands
The Dutch healthcare system is a mix of public and private healthcare. Basic health insurance is mandatory for all residents, and this covers essential medical services such as GP visits, hospital care, and specialist treatments.
What to Do: You must take out a basic health insurance policy within four months of your arrival in the Netherlands. Make sure to compare different insurance providers and policies to find one that best suits your needs.
2. Securing Health Insurance
Having health insurance is crucial in most countries, but the type of insurance you need can vary.
United States
Employer-based insurance is the most common in the U.S., but if you’re self-employed or unemployed, you can purchase insurance through the government-run Health Insurance Marketplace. Plans come in different tiers (bronze, silver, gold, platinum), with varying levels of coverage and cost.
Canada
While healthcare in Canada is publicly funded, newcomers may experience a waiting period (up to three months) before they’re eligible for provincial health insurance. During this period, it’s advisable to get private insurance.
United Kingdom
The NHS offers free healthcare to UK residents, but it’s advisable to have private insurance if you want quicker access to specialists or private hospitals. Expats should also consider insurance that covers services not included in the NHS, like dental care.
Netherlands
Basic health insurance is mandatory, and you can add supplementary packages for things like dental care, physiotherapy, or alternative medicine. The government sets the price for basic coverage, but providers may vary in the quality of their services.
3. Finding Healthcare Providers
Locating a healthcare provider who meets your needs can be challenging, but it’s important to find a trusted doctor, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the system.
United States
Research online for reviews of local healthcare providers. Websites like Healthgrades or Zocdoc can provide patient reviews and ratings for doctors and specialists in your area.
Canada
Many Canadians find their doctors through referrals or online resources like the College of Physicians and Surgeons in each province. Since wait times for specialists can be long, it’s a good idea to consult with a family doctor first for a referral.
United Kingdom
Once you’ve registered with the NHS, you’ll need to find a GP in your local area. You can use the NHS website to find doctors who are accepting new patients. Keep in mind that GPs serve as gatekeepers to specialist care, so always consult them first.
Netherlands
After obtaining your health insurance, you’ll need to register with a huisarts (GP). The GP handles most health issues and refers you to specialists when necessary. Most expats find their GP through recommendations or online expatriate forums.
4. Handling Medical Emergencies Abroad
In a medical emergency, knowing what to do can save your life. Here are country-specific guidelines on how to handle emergencies:
United States
Call 911 for emergencies. Ambulance services and emergency room care can be expensive if you’re uninsured. Make sure your insurance covers emergency services.
Canada
Dial 911 for emergency medical assistance. Emergency room visits are covered by the public health system, but wait times can vary depending on the severity of the case.
United Kingdom
For emergencies, call 999. NHS emergency services are free at the point of care, but non-urgent issues may have long waiting times.
Netherlands
In case of an emergency, dial 112. Emergency care is covered by your basic health insurance, but non-urgent visits may require a referral from your GP.
5. Cultural Differences in Healthcare
As a Nigerian, it is very important to understand cultural nuances in healthcare when seeking treatment in a foreign country. These differences can affect how doctors interact with patients, how prescriptions are handled, and the overall approach to healthcare.
United States
Patient-driven care: In the U.S., doctors expect patients to be proactive and ask questions. You have the right to seek a second opinion and even switch doctors if you’re not satisfied.
Canada
Team-based care: Canadian healthcare often involves multiple professionals, including nurses, doctors, and specialists, working together. Don’t be surprised if a nurse or other healthcare worker is your first point of contact.
United Kingdom
Formal approach: UK healthcare can sometimes seem less personal compared to Nigeria, with a more formal interaction between doctor and patient. Specialists are often only accessible through GP referrals.
Netherlands
Direct communication: Dutch healthcare providers are known for being very direct and to-the-point, which may come off as blunt if you’re not used to it. They prioritize practical treatment plans and may not prescribe medication as often as doctors in other countries.
6. Telemedicine and Remote Healthcare
Telemedicine has gained significant popularity, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s a great option for immigrants including Nigerians in western countries such as the USA, Canada, UK and the Netherlands.
United States
Many private insurance companies cover telemedicine, and platforms like Teladoc offer 24/7 access to doctors for consultations.
Canada
Some provinces offer telehealth services for non-emergency medical advice. Websites like Maple allow patients to consult doctors online, sometimes free with provincial insurance.
United Kingdom
The NHS offers a 111 non-emergency helpline, and some GP practices offer online consultations for registered patients.
Netherlands
Many insurers include telemedicine services as part of their plans. You can access remote consultations for non-emergency care or follow-up appointments through platforms like Dokteronline.
7. Managing Pre-existing Health Conditions
If you have a pre-existing condition like diabetes or hypertension before migrating abroad, it is important to plan ahead.
United States
Make sure your health insurance covers pre-existing conditions. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) mandates coverage for such conditions, but you’ll want to verify your plan’s specifics.
Canada
Continuity of care is relatively easy in Canada. Most provinces cover ongoing treatments for pre-existing conditions, but check with your provincial health plan for details on medications and specialists.
United Kingdom
The NHS covers long-term conditions like diabetes or asthma. Register with a GP to ensure you receive routine check-ups and necessary medications.
Netherlands
You’ll need a referral from your huisarts to manage pre-existing conditions. Basic health insurance typically covers ongoing treatments, but you may need supplementary insurance for specialized services.
8. Conclusion: Your Health is a Priority
Navigating healthcare systems as a Nigerian immigrant in a foreign country can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with serious illnesses or health emergencies. It is very important to learn beforehand about processes and options available to you in the specific country you are because you never know when you might need urgent medical attention.
With the right knowledge and preparation, you can ensure you receive the care you need. Whether you’re living in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, or the Netherlands, understanding local healthcare practices and securing comprehensive insurance is essential. By staying informed and proactive, you can maintain your health and thrive as a Nigerian living abroad.
