Doctors & Clinics in South Sudan
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Capital: Juba
Population: 12.58 million
Official language: English
Time zone: East Africa Time
Emergency #: 999
Vaccinations required: Yes
Risk of malaria: Yes
Due to ongoing conflict, non-essential travel to South Sudan is not advised. South Sudan is known as the world’s newest country. Natural landscapes and wildlife are popular attractions, including Bahr El Jebel Safaris.
The standards for patient care and medical services in South Sudan may differ from your home country. South Sudan has a public, decentralized healthcare system. Healthcare is regulated on a state level, so the quality and availability of care varies by region. Healthcare is extremely limited and generally does not meet international standards. Many healthcare facilities lack skilled healthcare personnel as well as modern equipment and medical resources. NGOs also offer many healthcare services in South Sudan.
In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals and private practitioners in South Sudan typically require upfront payment, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Evacuation – possibly to Kenya or South Africa – will be required for medical emergencies. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance. Coverage for medical evacuation is a high priority. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in South Sudan.
There is limited access to pharmacies in South Sudan and the sector is largely unregulated. The quality of any medications that are available cannot be guaranteed, and many pharmacists are untrained. Travellers should pack a sufficient supply of essential medication for the duration of their trip.
If you are travelling with medication, check with South Sudan’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.
Most roads in South Sudan are unpaved and in poor condition. Vehicles may be poorly maintained and overloaded. Driving at night may be dangerous as many roads are unlit and many vehicles do not have working lights. Traffic moves on the right side but many vehicles have steering wheels on the left. Seat belts and must be worn by drivers and passengers of vehicles at all times. Motorcycle drivers and passengers must wear helmets for safety.