Ethiopia is embarking on a journey to become a hub for medical tourism in Africa, with a $400 million medical complex set to launch in its capital.
This development is amidst concerns over its health system’s struggles.
Located near Bole Airport in Addis Ababa and leveraging Ethiopian Airlines’ vast network, the Roha Medical Campus aims to be a medical destination.
It targets patients opting for medical treatment abroad, hoping to keep them within the continent.
Annually, Africans spend over $5 billion on healthcare outside Africa. Ethiopia’s plan could save money and improve healthcare accessibility.
Ethiopians alone spend about $500 million on medical tourism annually. Yet, Ethiopia faces a healthcare crisis with a lack of facilities and essential supplies.
In addition, conflicts and a foreign currency shortage have worsened these issues, affecting medicine importation and availability.
Roha Medical Campus, with U.S. backing, to open specialized centers in cardiology, nuclear medicine, oncology, and neuro-spinal services.
It will hire over 4,000 staff, aiming to provide treatments that Ethiopians previously sought abroad.
The project aims to reduce healthcare travel for Ethiopians and neighbors, leveraging Ethiopian Airlines for regional accessibility.
However, most Ethiopians might find these services unaffordable due to the current state of public healthcare and challenges in the Tigray region.
The Roha Medical Campus represents a move towards enhanced healthcare services in Ethiopia and possibly the region.
In short, Ethiopia’s health system enrichment and medical tourism success hinge on tackling broader healthcare challenges and ensuring equitable access.