Public Health: 4,788 Positions Unfilled

daily-life

Updated 2026-08-18 5 min

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In short

●Cambodia has launched a national health information system based on DHIS2 in all 25 provinces.
●A World Bank report reveals that 88% of referral hospitals and 65% of health centers are understaffed.
●The country lacks 4,788 doctors, nurses, and other health workers.
●For expats, this underscores the importance of having private health insurance.

4,788

Unfilled positions

88%

Understaffed hospitals

65%

Understaffed health centers

World Bank

Source

4,788 vacant positions. Cambodia lacks doctors, nurses, and other health workers, according to a World Bank report.
88% of referral hospitals. The vast majority of referral hospitals are understaffed.
65% of health centers. Nearly two-thirds of health centers also lack staff.
25 provinces affected. The new national health information system (DHIS2) has been deployed nationwide.
Key date: August 18, 2026. Publication of the analysis in the Phnom Penh Post, based on World Bank data.

Cambodia has recently taken a step forward in modernizing its health system, but staffing challenges remain major. Here are the key milestones.

2024: The Ministry of Health begins deploying the DHIS2 system in several pilot provinces.
2025: The World Bank conducts a comprehensive assessment of human resources in the health sector.
Early 2026: The World Bank report is finalized, highlighting staff shortages.
August 2026: The national rollout of DHIS2 is completed in all 25 provinces.
August 18, 2026: The Phnom Penh Post publishes an analysis suggesting that Turkey should help build a referral network rather than a clinic in the capital.
Next steps: The government plans to recruit and train staff, but timelines remain uncertain.

The staff shortage affects health facilities differently. Here is the breakdown by type of facility.

Public hospitals in Siem Reap may lack specialized staff, leading to longer wait times.
For emergencies, it may be necessary to go to a private clinic or Phnom Penh.
Expats should ensure their health insurance covers medical evacuations to neighboring countries like Thailand.
The new DHIS2 system could improve medical record tracking, but its effectiveness will depend on recruitment.
It is recommended to research private clinics in Siem Reap and their capabilities before you need them.

Step 1: Get international health insurance that includes medical evacuation.
Step 2: Identify private clinics in Siem Reap and note their contact details.
Step 3: For non-urgent health issues, prefer private facilities.
Step 4: Keep your medications and treatments with you, along with a prescription translated into English.
Step 5: Follow local health recommendations, especially for tropical diseases.
Step 6: Stay informed about health system developments via local news.

What is the main problem with Cambodia's public health system?

Staff shortages: 88% of referral hospitals and 65% of health centers are understaffed, with a deficit of 4,788 professionals.

Will the new DHIS2 system improve care?

It will enable better health data management, but its real impact will depend on recruiting qualified staff.

What should expats do to protect themselves?

Get international health insurance with medical evacuation and know the local private clinics.

Are there private hospitals in Siem Reap?

Yes, several private clinics exist, but for highly specialized care, you often need to go to Phnom Penh or Thailand.

Does the government plan to recruit?

Yes, but no specific timeline has been announced. The World Bank report calls for urgent action.

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Siem Reap Hub

The community guide for expats and travelers in Siem Reap, Cambodia