You will have a multitude of options when it comes to both public and private healthcare in Cape Town. That said, government hospitals are largely understaffed and underfunded, so most expats use Cape Town's private healthcare facilities.

Basic consultations with general practitioners are generally affordable, but costs can quickly escalate with even the slightest complication.  For this reason, it's highly recommended that you take out private health insurance, which South Africans commonly call 'medical aid'. 

Various local and international service providers offer different schemes; some are completely comprehensive, while others provide basic hospital cover for emergencies. The cost of private health insurance varies depending on how comprehensive your coverage is and the number of dependents covered. 

Some medical aid schemes may have waiting periods during which you pay your monthly premium but cannot claim from the medical. This is usually three months but can go as long as 12 months depending on the reason for your waiting period. 

Below is a list of recommended hospitals in Cape Town.

Private hospitals in Cape Town

Healthcare banner

Mediclinic Constantiaberg

Website: www.mediclinic.co.za
Address: Burnham Road, Plumstead

Melomed Tokai

Website: www.melomed.co.za
Address: Corner Main & Keysers Road, Tokai

Netcare UCT Private Academic Hospital

Website: www.netcarehospitals.co.za
Address: D18 Anzio Road, Observatory

Mediclinic Cape Town

Website: www.mediclinic.co.za
Address: 21 Hof Street, Gardens

What do expats say about healthcare in Cape Town?

"I've experienced both the public and private healthcare systems in South Africa. To be honest, the service I received at a public hospital was much better than in the private sector. I probably only have experience of one of the better public hospitals though, I've heard horror stories from other people. It’s probably a good idea to have private health insurance." 

Read more about Shantalie's experience of life in the city in her expat interview about Cape Town. 

Further reading

►For more on the country's health system, see Healthcare in South Africa

Are you an expat living in Cape Town?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Cape Town. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute, or fill in our expat interview form to be featured.