Emergency Numbers & Access
Connaught Hospital emergency department is the main option. Very limited capabilities.
Response time: 30-60+ minutes in Freetown; unreliable elsewhere
Cost: Public free but extremely basic; private $50-300 USD
Healthcare System
Sierra Leone's healthcare system is still rebuilding after the civil war (ended 2002) and the 2014-2016 Ebola epidemic which devastated health infrastructure. Connaught Hospital in Freetown is the main referral hospital. A few private clinics and NGO-supported facilities in Freetown. Rural healthcare is extremely basic. Malaria is the leading cause of illness. Lassa fever is endemic in some areas.
Designed for: Residents. Tourists need comprehensive insurance and evacuation cover.
GP Access & Costs
Walk-in at private clinics in Freetown
Typical wait: Same day at private; unpredictable at public
Availability: Freetown has some private options; rest of country extremely limited
GP Visit
$20-60 USD at private clinics
Private GP
$20-60 USD
ER Without Insurance
$100-2,000+ USD
Medication
Very limited pharmacy supply. Bring all medications. Counterfeit drug risk.
Practical Tips
- Choithram Memorial Hospital (Freetown) — better equipped private option
- Medical evacuation insurance ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL
- Carry comprehensive medical kit including water purification
- Anti-malarial prophylaxis is non-negotiable
- Nearest quality care is Dakar or Accra for evacuation
Who can get care in Sierra Leone?
Emergency care for anyone
Emergency departments in Sierra Leone treat everyone regardless of residency or insurance status. Charges can still apply afterwards.
Public system for visitors
The public system does not cover visitors, so care is paid privately or through insurance.
Seeing a Doctor as a visitor
Walk-in at private clinics in Freetown Typical cost: $20-60 USD at private clinics Typical wait: Same day at private; unpredictable at public
Insurance needed for entry or visa
Not a formal entry requirement, but medical cover is strongly recommended. Emergency care without cover: $100-2,000+ USD.
Documents worth having ready
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation (ESSENTIAL)
- Yellow fever certificate
- Passport
- Visa
Local contacts in Sierra Leone
Emergency services
999 / 019
Connaught Hospital emergency department is the main option. Very limited capabilities.
Pharmacies
Pharmacy hours vary by city; larger towns usually have a late-night rota.
What is the emergency number in Sierra Leone?
999 or 019 in Sierra Leone. Connaught Hospital emergency department is the main option. Very limited capabilities.
How much does a Doctor visit cost in Sierra Leone?
$20-60 USD at private clinics Private consultations: $20-60 USD.
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Sources: Sierra Leone Ministry of Health, WHO Sierra Leone, CDC Travelers' Health 2024
Last reviewed: March 2026 by ViscaCare