Private health insurance in Gulf Cooperation Council countries: A scoping review

Abstract

Private Health Insurance (PHI) in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries has experienced rapid growth over the past two decades, driven by demographic and economic changes. Although various analyses at the country level have been reported, no study has reviewed PHI systems in the GCC through a methodological approach. We provide a conceptual framework to review, describe and document the development of PHI in the GCC, based on literature from the scoping review. As of December 2023, all GCC countries have laws in place or have promulgated laws establishing mandatory PHI schemes. Most of these schemes are designed for expatriate populations residing in these countries, but there is a trend to extend them to nationals working in the private sector. The health system context plays a role in how PHI emerged and is designed in terms of role, eligibility, and coverage. PHI markets in the region are concentrated and dominated by local companies with performance levels that could be further improved. These markets are maturing and subject to more robust technical and prudential regulations as governments seek to enhance competition. Governments in the region must ensure the sustainable growth of these schemes and a more strategic alignment with health system objectives. Lessons learned from more mature markets are critical for future developments.