Medical evacuation from Benin to Morocco: how do you prepare the transfer from Cotonou?

Departing from Cotonou

Cotonou Airport is located in the city, which shortens the journey for a patient in hospital in Cotonou or Porto-Novo. The ambulance timing is matched to the flight to avoid a long wait without supervision.

Coming from the north of the country

Benin stretches from the Gulf of Guinea to Niger: Parakou, Djougou, Natitingou or Kandi are several hours' drive from Cotonou. For a stable patient, the road may be suitable; for a seriously ill patient, the team may prefer medical transport from the nearest town with a suitable runway. This choice lies with the doctors and the transport operator.

Language of documents and time zone

French is the official language and the language of medical reports. As Fon, Yoruba and other languages are widely spoken, a companion who understands the patient and speaks French makes information and consent easier. Benin is on UTC+1, like Morocco for most of the year; during Ramadan, Morocco moves to UTC+0. Doctors in the two countries can therefore often talk within the same time slot.

Malaria and sickle cell disease: to be mentioned

Malaria is common in Benin, and sickle cell disease is widespread in the region. A recent fever, antimalarial treatment or known sickle cell disease must be included in the file: they affect how the journey is prepared, in particular hydration and, depending on the case, oxygen during the flight.

The medical file to prepare

• a recent summary letter with the reason for transfer;
• recent reports, dated;
• the imaging files whenever possible;
• current treatments, allergies and medical history.

These documents can be sent by email or WhatsApp before any travel.

Funding and entry into Morocco

The family, an insurer, an employer or a body may fund the care pathway, with prior approval obtained before departure. Entry requirements for Morocco depend on nationality and change over time: they are checked with the competent Moroccan diplomatic mission or on the official websites of the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Preparing the return

The patient leaves with their reports, prescriptions using international non-proprietary names and a follow-up schedule. For a return to the north, the journey from Cotonou is also planned.

Frequently asked questions