Healthcare and Emergencies in The Gambia
Practical information for visitors on accessing healthcare in The Gambia, preparing for medical needs and knowing what to do in an emergency. Keep important numbers, insurance details and information about any medication with you while travelling.
Step by step
- Step 1 — Arrange appropriate travel insurance before travelling Visitors should consider travel insurance that covers medical treatment and, where appropriate, emergency medical evacuation. Healthcare facilities and specialist services may be more limited than visitors are accustomed to in some other countries, and private treatment may require payment.
- Step 2 — Prepare any medicines you regularly need Bring an adequate supply of prescribed medication for your stay and keep important prescription or medical information with you. Availability of particular medicines can differ in The Gambia, so travellers requiring specialist medication should check availability before travelling.
- Step 3 — Save important emergency contacts The Government of The Gambia currently lists the following national numbers: Ambulance: 116 Police: 117 Fire and Rescue: 118 Red Cross: 1199 Tourist Services: 1030 Health Services: 1025 Save these numbers before travelling. Visitors should also keep the contact details of their accommodation, travel insurer and a nearby medical facility. Government of The Gambia
- Step 4 — Seek medical attention when necessary For illness or injury requiring medical attention, contact an appropriate health facility. In a serious situation, seek assistance immediately rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen. The Ministry of Health's public health information line is 1025.
- Step 5 — Contact your insurer if you require significant treatment If you are referred for treatment or require substantial medical assistance, contact your travel insurer as soon as reasonably possible. Your insurer may provide guidance on approved facilities, payment arrangements or medical evacuation where this is covered by your policy.
- Step 6 — Follow current official health advice Health conditions and public-health requirements can change. Check current information from the Ministry of Health and relevant authorities before and during your visit rather than relying solely on older travel information.
Healthcare in The Gambia
Healthcare is provided through public and private facilities across The Gambia. The range of services available varies by location and facility, and visitors requiring specialist treatment should make appropriate preparations before travelling.
Visitors are encouraged to travel with adequate health insurance, keep details of any existing medical conditions and prescriptions accessible, and ensure they have sufficient supplies of medicines they regularly use.
In an emergency
The Government of The Gambia currently publishes the following emergency contacts:
Ambulance — 116 Police — 117 Fire and Rescue — 118 Red Cross — 1199 Tourist Services — 1030 Health Services — 1025 Government of The Gambia
Emergency arrangements may differ from those available in other countries. Visitors should therefore also keep the telephone number and location of a nearby medical facility, their accommodation and their travel insurer readily available.
Important
This guide provides general information for visitors and does not constitute medical advice. Health requirements, emergency contacts and available services can change. Always consult the relevant Gambian authorities and qualified healthcare professionals for current information.
Last checked: 30 September 2026
Questions and answers
What number should I call for a medical emergency?
The Government of The Gambia currently lists 116 for ambulance services and 1025 for health services. Because emergency arrangements may differ from those visitors are accustomed to abroad, it is also sensible to keep contact details for your accommodation, nearby medical facilities and travel insurer.
Is healthcare free for visitors?
Visitors should not assume that treatment will be free. Private healthcare providers generally operate on a fee-paying basis, and travellers should have appropriate insurance and be prepared for medical expenses.
Should I get travel insurance?
Yes. Visitors should consider insurance appropriate to their circumstances and activities, including medical treatment and emergency evacuation where appropriate. Medical evacuation can be expensive.
Should I bring my medication with me?
If you rely on regular or specialist medication, plan before travelling. Some medicines available elsewhere may not be readily available in The Gambia. Carry sufficient medication and relevant prescription or medical information, subject to applicable rules on travelling with medicines.
Where can I obtain current public-health information?
The Ministry of Health of The Gambia publishes health information and operates the 1025 public-health information service.
Can the Honorary Consul arrange medical treatment?
No. The Office of the Honorary Consul is not a healthcare provider and cannot diagnose medical conditions, provide treatment or guarantee access to a particular medical facility. In an emergency, contact the appropriate Gambian emergency or healthcare service directly.