Nobody expects to have a medical emergency when travelling abroad, but this can happen, and it is vital that you know what steps to take to ensure your safety and compliance with local procedures. It is better to be safe than sorry, so this post will outline the main steps to take should you ever find yourself in this situation. Read on to find out more.
Immediate Actions & Contacting Local Emergency Services
In the event of a medical emergency, the first thing to do is assess the situation and contact local emergency services – you should always look up the phone number for local emergency services and memorize it before you leave.
In many European countries, the emergency number is 112, which connects you to police, fire, or medical services. However, it’s essential to verify the correct number before traveling. In any emergency, speak clearly and calmly, providing your exact location and a brief description of the situation to responders.
In many countries, operators are trained to speak English or have access to translation services, so do not worry if you are not fluent in the language! In many countries, you will be taken to a public hospital in an ambulance or a private healthcare facility in some cases.
Notifying Your Travel Insurance Provider
After addressing your immediate medical needs, you should inform your travel insurance provider as soon as possible. It is important to keep all of your travel insurance information with you, whether this is digital/or physical copies of documents.
Most policies require prompt notification to facilitate coverage of medical expenses and potential repatriation if necessary. Be sure to keep all medical records and receipts – these will be crucial when it comes to processing your claim.
Exploring Compensation & Understanding Your Rights
Keep in mind that you may be entitled to compensation if the incident occurred as a result of someone else’s negligence, whether it be an individual or an organisation. This includes situations such as car accidents that were not your fault, or injuries caused by slips, trips, or falls in public areas due to unsafe conditions or lack of maintenance.
You can use a compensation calculator to get a rough estimate of how much you could be entitled to, but compensation can cover medical bills, current and future loss of earnings, and other damages. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional to understand the process and ensure your rights are protected throughout.
Final Words
It is hoped that you will never find yourself in a situation where this information becomes necessary. However, medical emergencies can occur unexpectedly while travelling abroad. In such cases, it is crucial to know how to respond appropriately so you can access medical assistance quickly, communicate effectively, and follow the correct procedures to ensure your safety.
It is important that you know how to notify emergency services in the country you are visiting to get prompt care, notify your insurance provider, keep hold of all documentation, and explore compensation if the injury was not your fault.
