Vaccinations before leaving
You are likely to need treatment, or be prescribed medicine for Malaria and a yellow fever vaccination before leaving. It is important to check with your embassy or doctor back home which vaccinations or treatments you will need prior to leaving. It is recommended that this be done at least 8 weeks before your departure date.
What to do in an emergency
In case of emergency, you should call 112. Call 118 if you need an ambulance. Response to your call will not necessarily be quick, and emergency services are limited to Luanda.
Medical Rescue International does operate in Angola, and offers emergency transportation within and outside of Angola. The contact number for paramedics on-call is +244 912 500 965 or +244 912454281.
Insurance
Angola does not have a government sponsored health plan. It is therefore important to check if your employer offers health insurance, or whether you must purchase your own insurance back home. Health insurance is exceptionally important due to the the high fees of immediate medical treatments at hospitals. With good health insurance coverage, you should be reimbursed for these costs. You should also ensure that your health insurance covers medical evacuation to places such as South Africa and further afield, in the case that you require substantial medical treatment.
Work visa
You will need a full medical examination performed by your doctor back home, with a certificate proving that you have no infections or diseases, before you are allowed a work visa in Angola.
For more information on healthcare for expats in Angola, visit Expat Health Tips: https://expathealth.tips/