Healing in the Heart of the Indian Ocean: Why Comoros Is Gaining Attention for Medical Care
Tucked between Madagascar and Mozambique, the Comoros Islands aren’t just known for their stunning beaches or volcanic landscapes anymore. In 2026, they’re beginning to gain global attention for another reason — healthcare. Whether you’re a Comorian seeking trusted care close to home or an international traveler needing emergency support during a visit, understanding hospitals in Comoros is essential.
While Comoros may not be a medical tourism powerhouse like Thailand or India, the country is making significant progress in strengthening its healthcare infrastructure. This blog provides a practical, patient-focused guide for both local and international patients exploring healthcare services in Comoros.
🌍 The State of Healthcare in Comoros: Challenges & Progress
The Union of the Comoros consists of three main islands: Grande Comore, Mohéli, and Anjouan. The country faces infrastructure limitations, but progress has been steady in recent years.
Key Facts:
- Public health system is dominant with support from the Ministry of Health and international organizations
- Healthcare access is free or low-cost for citizens, though medicines and advanced tests often require out-of-pocket payments
- Private and NGO-run clinics are available in larger towns
- Moroni, the capital, is home to the country’s primary referral hospital
Improvements Since 2020:
- Expansion of rural health centers
- Government partnerships with WHO and World Bank for training and diagnostics
- Telemedicine pilot programs for remote islands
🏥 Major Hospitals and Facilities in Comoros
Here are the top functioning hospitals across the three islands as of 2026:
| Hospital Name | Location | Key Services | Bed Capacity | Doctors (Est.) | Language Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| El-Maarouf National Hospital Center | Moroni | Emergency, General Surgery | 220 | 300+ | French, Comorian, Arabic |
| Hospital Hombo | Anjouan | Maternity, Pediatrics | 120 | 100+ | French, Comorian |
| Fomboni Hospital | Mohéli | General Medicine, Minor Surgery | 90 | 80+ | French, Comorian |
| Mitsamiouli District Hospital | Grande Comore | Basic Emergency, Rural Services | 60 | 40+ | French, Comorian |
| National Health Center for Women & Children | Moroni | Maternal Health, Neonatal Care | 100 | 130+ | French, Comorian |
| MSF-supported Clinic (Rotating) | Various | Mobile Surgery, Outreach Care | Varies | 50+ (visiting) | French, Arabic, English |
Note: Facilities and availability vary. Services are often affected by staffing levels and supply chains.
🧬 Common Treatments Available in Comoros
Though Comoros has limited access to high-end surgical care, it offers a wide range of services:
🩺 Primary & General Care
- Diagnosis and treatment of fever, infections, hypertension, diabetes
🤰 Maternal Health
- Prenatal monitoring, delivery assistance, postnatal care
👶 Pediatrics
- Immunizations, newborn care, nutrition programs
🦷 Basic Dentistry
- Tooth extraction, cavity care (select locations)
🧪 Diagnostic Services
- Ultrasound, blood tests, malaria screening
🛫 Emergency Support for Travelers
- Travel illness treatment, injury care, medical evacuation stabilization
✈️ Tips for International Travelers Seeking Care in Comoros
- Carry full travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation
- Know the main hospitals: El-Maarouf in Moroni is the largest and best-equipped
- Bring essential medications with you (some are unavailable locally)
- Use MyHospitalNow’s Forum to ask past travelers for location-specific advice
- Download offline translation tools (French and Comorian are most spoken)
- Bookmark Hospitals in Comoros for updated listings
💬 Testimonials from Patients
“I visited Comoros for a marine biology project and caught a nasty fever. The hospital in Moroni helped me stabilize quickly. Thankfully, I had found their info on MyHospitalNow’s forum, and that gave me peace of mind before the trip.”
— Erika T., Sweden
“My daughter was born at the National Women & Children’s Hospital in Moroni. The staff were kind and skilled despite limited resources. I found a lot of emotional support through MyHospitalNow’s guidance.”
— Amina B., Moroni
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is healthcare free in Comoros?
Public care is free or low-cost, but some tests and drugs may require payment.
2. Are there English-speaking doctors?
Mostly no. French and Comorian are primary languages. Some international clinics offer limited English.
3. Can tourists receive emergency care?
Yes, but quality varies. Moroni offers the most reliable services.
4. Is medical evacuation available from Comoros?
Yes, but expensive and requires third-party providers. Insurance is strongly recommended.
5. Do hospitals accept credit cards?
Rarely. Cash is the norm. Carry local currency (Comorian franc).
6. What’s the best hospital in Comoros?
El-Maarouf National Hospital in Moroni is the primary national facility.
7. Are there pharmacies in Comoros?
Yes, but stock is limited. Bring key medications from abroad.
8. Is it safe for childbirth in Comoros?
Yes, in urban areas. Rural births can be risky without transport.
9. Are vaccinations required before visiting Comoros?
Yes, Yellow Fever (if transiting via affected areas) and standard immunizations.
10. Where can I find recent updates or help from real patients?
Use the MyHospitalNow Forum for real-time advice.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Health and Hope in the Islands
While Comoros faces limitations in its healthcare system, progress and potential are visible — especially in urban hospitals and with NGO collaboration. For locals, it’s an evolving system of support. For visitors, it’s vital to prepare but reassuring to know that help is available.
Whether you’re seeking maternal care in Moroni or emergency services during travel, MyHospitalNow is your trusted companion.
- ✅ Explore listings by region at Hospitals in Comoros
- ✅ Talk to patients, travelers, and locals at MyHospitalNow Forum
- ✅ Get informed. Stay safe. Be prepared.
👉 Comoros may be small — but its healthcare story is growing. Be part of it with MyHospitalNow.