You know the saying "health is wealth" probably the most important saying ever. Prioritizing your well-being should always come first, but it’s not always easy especially if you’re in a new country. As an expat in Addis Ababa, trying to stay on top of your health while trying to understand a new system can feel overwhelming. You may be wondering: Where do I go if I feel sick? Is the care reliable? Will they speak English?
Don’t worry we’ve put together a guide to help you find some of the best hospitals and clinics in Addis Ababa so you can stay healthy and feel at ease in your new home.
Top Private Hospitals and Clinics in Addis Ababa
St. Gabriel General Hospital
- Location: Hayahulet
- Why Expats Love It: English-speaking doctors, modern equipment, and reliable emergency services.
- Specialties: General medicine, maternity, pediatrics, surgery.
Addis Cardiac Hospital
- Location: Bole
- Why It’s Notable: Best known for heart care in Ethiopia with international-standard cardiologists.
- Good for: Individuals with chronic heart conditions or those in need of regular checkups.
Myungsung Medical Center (Korean Hospital)
- Location: Gerji
- Why It’s Popular: International-standard facilities, Korean-run, with multilingual staf
- Bonus: Great reputation for surgery, internal medicine, and diagnostics.
Hayat Hospital
- Location: Bole
- Why It Stands Out: 24/7 emergency services, clean environment, affordable care.
- Good For: Walk-in patients, urgent but non-life-threatening care.
Bethzatha General Hospital
- Location: Meskel Square area
- What to Know: Offers a full range of services with good outpatient care and a pharmacy onsite.
- Ideal for: Anyone looking for a reliable, family-friendly hospital they can depend on long-term.
If you don’t need a full hospital and just want to consult a general physician, these clinics are a great place to start:
- Washington Medical Center – Known for professional service and English-speaking doctors.
- Swedish Clinic (near Kebena) – Well-established clinic with years of trusted service.
- Prime Care Diagnostic Center – Great for lab work, imaging, and quick consultations.
Pharmacies and Health Support
Most hospitals have pharmacies, but for reliable over-the-counter meds or prescriptions:
- Belay Zeleke Pharmacy – Centrally located and well-stocked.
- MediCare Pharmacy – Known for imported medicine and staff that can help in English.
Final Tips for Expats
- Always check if your health insurance covers private hospitals.
- Keep copies of your passport and any health history during your first visits.
- Learn basic Amharic medical terms or have a local friend assist for the first few appointments.
- For emergencies, save the numbers of your nearest hospital and local ambulance service.
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