Jordan (JO)
Jordan is a stable, welcoming Hashemite Kingdom at the crossroads of the Middle East — home to Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the legendary Wadi Rum desert, and the mineral-rich Dead Sea.
Healthcare in Jordan
Jordan has a mixed public-private healthcare system. The Ministry of Health (MoH) operates public hospitals and clinics, while the private sector is extensive and widely used by expatriates. Jordan has earned a strong regional reputation for medical tourism — its hospitals attract patients from across the Arab world. Quality in the private sector in Amman is generally high; rural public facilities vary considerably. Most expats use private health insurance and access private hospitals.
Ranked among the top medical tourism destinations in the Middle East. Jordan was ranked 4th globally for medical tourism quality by the Medical Tourism Association in recent surveys. King Hussein Cancer Center is internationally accredited (JCI). Many Amman private hospitals hold JCI accreditation.
Public healthcare: Ministry of Health (MoH) Public Healthcare
Wizarat al-Sihha
- GP and specialist consultations at government clinics (very low cost)
- Emergency treatment at public hospital emergency departments
- Essential medications at subsidised rates through the Jordan Medical Complex
- Maternal and child health services
- Vaccination programmes
- Most dental care (not covered in public system)
- Specialist surgeries without long waiting times
- Mental health services (very limited)
- Most diagnostic imaging outside emergency
Private healthcare: Private Hospitals and Clinics
Accessing care
Jordan does not have a formal GP referral system — you can go directly to any specialist. Most expats choose a private clinic or family medicine practice. Many private hospitals have outpatient departments with same-day appointments. Key clinic areas in Amman: Abdoun, Sweifieh, Shmeisani, 4th and 5th Circle areas.
Direct access to specialists without GP referral. Book directly by phone or via clinic websites. Popular platforms: Doctori.jo, Shifaa.jo for online bookings. Many specialists also receive walk-in patients.
For emergencies, call 911 or go directly to the nearest private hospital emergency department. Jordan Hospital (Amman) and The Specialty Hospital have 24/7 emergency departments with English-speaking staff. Government hospitals (Al-Bashir, Queen Alia Military Medical Complex) also have 24/7 emergency departments.
Private hospital emergency departments are the most reliable after-hours option. Jordan Hospital emergency: +962 6 5607005. The Specialty Hospital emergency: +962 6 5007100. Dial 911 for ambulance — response times in Amman average 10–20 minutes.
Prescriptions are written by the doctor and filled at any private pharmacy (Saydaliyyah). Many medications available over the counter in Jordan that are prescription-only in Europe. Bring a supply of regular medications plus the international generic name as brand names differ. Pharmacy hours: typically 9am–10pm, with rotating 24-hour pharmacies in each neighbourhood.
Private dental care in Jordan is high-quality and affordable by international standards. Basic consultation: JD 15–25. Cleaning: JD 30–60. Fillings: JD 20–60. Implants: JD 500–1,200 (significantly cheaper than Europe). Not covered by most basic insurance plans — check your policy.
Mental health services are expanding in Jordan but still limited. Private psychiatrists and psychologists are available in Amman (JD 40–80/session). Al-Rashid Psychiatric Hospital is the main public mental health facility. IMC (International Medical Corps) and other NGOs offer free mental health support services, primarily for refugees. Online therapy platforms (BetterHelp, etc.) are used by many expats.
Maternity care in Jordan is well-developed in the private sector. Most expats use private hospitals for delivery. Normal delivery at a private hospital: JD 800–1,500. C-section: JD 1,500–3,000. Jordan Hospital, Istishari, and Luzmila are popular choices. Prenatal care: gynaecologist appointments every 4 weeks, then fortnightly from week 32. Some international insurance plans cover maternity with 10–12 month waiting periods — check before conception.
Expat-specific advice
- Arrange comprehensive private health insurance before or immediately on arrival — do not rely on public system
- Register with a private clinic or family medicine practice in your area
- Locate your nearest 24-hour pharmacy and private hospital emergency department
- Ensure your insurance covers emergency evacuation (medevac) to Jordan or to your home country
- Request a letter from your doctor summarising any chronic conditions and medications (in English and Arabic)
- If bringing children: register with a paediatrician within the first 2 weeks
Pharmacies (Saydaliyyah (صيدلية))
- Pain relief: Panadol (paracetamol), Brufen (ibuprofen), Voltaren
- Antibiotics: Amoxicillin available OTC in many pharmacies (though a prescription is better practice)
- Allergy: Cetirizine, Loratadine, Clarityne
- Digestive: Nexium, Gaviscon, Imodium
- Vitamins and supplements
- Wound care and first aid
- Rehydration sachets (ORS)
Typical costs
| GP visit (with insurance) | JD 0–10 copay (private insurance) |
| GP visit (private pay) | JD 20–40 (private clinic) |
| Specialist visit | JD 30–80 (private pay) |
| Emergency visit | JD 50–200 (private hospital) |
| MRI scan | JD 80–200 (private, varies by hospital) |
| Prescription average | JD 3–15 depending on medication |
| Dental check-up | JD 15–25 (private) |
| Baby delivery | JD 800–3,000 (private hospital; depends on type and complications) |
Healthcare
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