Hospitals and doctors in Sihanoukville

In 3 bullets

• No international hospital in Sihanoukville — medical provision is limited to private clinics for routine care.
• For any serious procedure: evacuation to Phnom Penh (4–5h by road) or Bangkok (1h flight from Phnom Penh). Plan for this scenario from the moment you arrive.
• Insurance with medical evacuation cover is essential: no establishment on-site can handle life-threatening emergencies or major surgery.

Clinics and medical services

Private clinics in the city

Several private clinics exist in Sihanoukville for general medicine consultations, routine care and minor emergencies. Quality and language skills vary — look for addresses recommended by the local expat community via the Facebook group “Sihanoukville Expats & Locals”.

Sihanoukville Provincial Hospital

The provincial public hospital covers basic emergencies. Poorly suited to expats (language barrier, limited equipment). Use only if no private clinic is accessible.

Indicative fees

What to bring

• Passport (original or copy).
• Health insurance card (policy number + insurer contact details).
• Cash in USD — clinics often require immediate payment.
• Medical history in English (current prescriptions, allergies).

Medical evacuation

For any serious procedure, evacuation to Phnom Penh (Royal Phnom Penh Hospital, Sunrise Japan Hospital) is recommended. From Phnom Penh, evacuation to Bangkok is possible in 1h by air for cardiac surgery, neurosurgery or oncology procedures.

• International SOS Cambodia: evacuation coordination, available 24/7.
• Road ambulance to Phnom Penh: 4–5h, available via local private clinics.
• Trigger evacuation via your international insurance as soon as the local doctor recommends a transfer.

See the medical evacuation Bangkok guide.

FAQ

Are there English-speaking doctors in Sihanoukville?

Some private clinics have English-speaking staff. French-language service is generally not guaranteed — contact the French embassy for the list of recommended practitioners.

Can I use my international insurance (CFE)?

The CFE covers medical expenses in Cambodia on presentation of an itemised bill. Direct billing is rare in Sihanoukville — plan to pay upfront and claim reimbursement afterwards.

When should I evacuate to Phnom Penh?

As soon as the diagnosis requires: surgery, intensive care, advanced imaging (MRI, CT scan), or any procedure that local clinics cannot perform. If in doubt, contact your insurer — preventive evacuation costs are generally covered.