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Cliniche consigliate, assicurazioni sanitarie, numeri di emergenza e pianificazione sanitaria per famiglie e residenti internazionali.
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Sanità
Updated July 2026
Sanità in Senegal
Clinics, insurance, emergency numbers and practical healthcare setup for international residents.
Setup timeline
1-2 weeks
Insurance
Recommended
Emergency
15 / 17 / 18 / 19
Difficulty
Easy to moderate
SAMU
15
Medical emergency number
Police
17
Police emergency number
Fire
18
Fire brigade number
Gendarmerie
19
Gendarmerie emergency number
Overview of Sanità in Senegal for International residents
Senegal's public healthcare system is limited in resources and generally not recommended for International residents dealing with anything beyond minor issues. However, Dakar has a tier of well-equipped private clinics that provide reliable, professional care — and these are where virtually all International residents go for their health needs.
Best Clinics in Dakar for International residents
The most recommended clinic for International residents in Dakar. Modern facilities, international standard of care, English-speaking staff available. Full range of specialists, laboratory, imaging. Recommended for GP visits, minor procedures, and referrals.
Clinique du Cap (Almadies)
The most recommended clinic for International residents in
Dakar. Modern facilities, international standard of care,
English-speaking staff available. Full range of specialists,
laboratory, imaging. Recommended for GP visits, minor
procedures, and referrals.
Institut Pasteur de Dakar
Renowned for laboratory services, vaccinations, and tropical
disease diagnosis. Not a full hospital but excellent for
diagnostics and preventive care.
Hopital Principal de Dakar
The largest and best-equipped public hospital in Senegal. Has a
private wing used by International residents and diplomats.
Accepts international insurance. Emergency services 24/7.
Clinique Suma Assistance
Popular for dentistry and specialist consultations. Reasonable
prices.
Home Visit Option
SOS Medecins Dakar
House call service. A doctor comes to your home. Available 7
days a week. Useful for non-emergency situations when you are
unwell and cannot travel.
Health Insurance for International residents
Coverage
International Insurance
International health insurance is strongly recommended before
arriving. Local Senegalese insurance is available but rarely
adequate for the coverage International residents need.
Key Requirement
Medical Evacuation
Your policy should include medical evacuation / repatriation
coverage with a minimum of 100,000 EUR.
Tropical Disease Coverage
Essential Protection
Ensure coverage for malaria, dengue, typhoid, emergency dental
care and direct billing with Dakar clinics.
Recommended Providers
Popular Insurance Providers
Recommended insurers often used by International residents in
Francophone Africa: AXA International, Cigna Global, April
International, Allianz Care. Compare plans before departing —
rates are significantly better when you enroll from your home
country.
Emergencies, Pediatrics & Pharmacies
Emergency Numbers
SAMU (ambulance): 15 | Police 17 | Fire 18 | SAMU (medical) 15 | Gendarmerie 19. In a serious emergency, go directly to Hopital Principal (private wing) or Clinique du Cap. Do not rely on SAMU ambulances in non-central areas — response times vary significantly.
For families and pediatrics
Clinique du Cap has a well-regarded pediatrics department with experienced pediatricians. Clinique de la Madeleine is also highly recommended for children. SOS Médecins offers home visit service for sick children — useful when travelling with a child who is unwell. Ask your Visene concierge for a vetted pediatrician referral in your specific neighborhood.
Pharmacies
Dakar is well-stocked with pharmacies carrying most European medications. Many medications available over-the-counter in Senegal that require prescription in Europe. Major pharmacies: Pharmacie de la Corniche (Almadies) — open late, Pharmacie Centrale (Plateau), Pharmacie Guigon (Plateau). Most pharmacists speak basic French and can advise on common treatments.
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Related Guide
Complete guide to visas, CIE residence permits, required documents and real processing timelines for living in Senegal.
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