Healthcare

Pakistan spends only about 3% of GDP on healthcare, resulting in a two-tier system: under-resourced public hospitals with long waiting times and inconsistent quality, and modern private hospitals in major cities offering care that approaches international standards. For expats, private healthcare is the clear choice — it's affordable, accessible, and staffed by doctors who often trained in the UK, US, or Australia.

Private healthcare in Pakistan is remarkably affordable by international standards. A full medical checkup costs $20–$50, a specialist consultation $10–$30, and even complex procedures are a fraction of Western prices. Most expats take out private health insurance for comprehensive coverage and peace of mind.

Major cities have several excellent private hospitals that cater to expats and international patients. These hospitals have English-speaking staff, modern diagnostic equipment, and doctors trained at international institutions. Islamabad's Shifa International is JCI-accredited — the gold standard for international hospital quality.

Pharmacies are widely available across Pakistan and many medications that require a prescription in Western countries can be purchased over the counter. Prices for medication are heavily subsidized by the government and are extremely affordable. However, quality varies — stick to reputable pharmacy chains.