Finance: This is how much Africa spent for seeking medical treatment abroad last year

Cures for ailing health system found in foreign lands?

Africa is estimated to lose billions a year on medical tourism abroad, that is according to a report by Uncova.

The continent keeps exporting money and patients to Europe, America and the Middle East etc.

But why are people of power flying overseas to seek medical attention at the expense of a crippling local health system

Uncova reports that Africa spent over USD$6 billion on outbound treatment in 2016 with Nigeria being a major contributor.

Its citizens spend over USD$1 billion annually on medical tourism.

READ ALSO: S.A health minister slams African leaders for medical tourism

Arguably, private citizens opting to seek medical assistance abroad may not be a source of worry because their expenses are catered for by themselves.

However medical tourism among Africa’s political elite is a completely different bone of contention since they are responsible for the development of proper health care for the citizens of their countries.

READ ALSO: Why 'ailing' African leaders won't open up about their health

It is public knowledge that politicians across the African continent travel abroad for medical treatment. The reasons for exercising this choice are obvious: they lack confidence in the health systems they oversee, and they can afford the trips given that the expenses are paid for by taxpayers.

It’s estimated that in Uganda, the funds spent to treat top government officials abroad every year could build 10 hospitals.

Cures for ailing health system found in foreign lands? Read Full Story