Prepare for medical emergencies abroad with emergency contacts, hospital locations, translation tools, insurance knowledge, and required documentation.
Obare Obare
Dec 22, 2025 · Healthcare & Insurance
Medical emergencies are stressful enough without language barriers and unfamiliar systems. Preparation ensures you receive proper care quickly.
Save local emergency numbers (varies by country - not always 911). Also save your embassy number, insurance emergency line, and primary doctor.
Identify nearest 24/7 emergency rooms and note how to get there. International hospitals provide English-speaking staff but may be farther away.
Carry cards in local language stating: allergies, chronic conditions, current medications, blood type, and emergency contacts.
Understand emergency coverage: ambulance costs, emergency room copays, and whether you need pre-authorization for procedures.
Hospital visits require: insurance card, passport/ID, payment method, list of medications, and relevant medical records.
Many countries have after-hours GP services for non-emergencies. Using these prevents expensive emergency room visits for minor issues.
