What to Do if You Fall Sick when Traveling in a Foreign Country

It naturally feels frightening to fall sick when traveling in a foreign country. That’s because you are away from your friends, family, bed and doctor that has known you for a long time. However, a broken wrist or flue should not ruin your travel experience. You just need to know how to respond to a sickness or injury in a foreign country. Here is what you should do if you fall sick when traveling in a foreign country.

See a Doctor

Before the trip, you most probably had conducted some research. That means you know where you can find a hospital in your destination. If unsure of this, ask attendants at the hotel where you are staying. You can also ask your travel guide if you have one. A travel guide can even provide the support that you need to see a doctor and get well.

Contact the Embassy

Talk to the consulate or embassy of your country to find out if they can provide a list of medical facilities or healthcare providers that you can visit. This will give you the assistance you need and confidence that you are being treated by the right professionals. If you have a serious illness, consular officers may help you get medical assistance. If necessary, inform your friends and family.

Make Payment Arrangements

If you do not have enough money with you, consuls may assist you with funds transfer from friends and family in your home country to your travel destination. Medical bills and hospital payments may not be covered by your travel insurance. Thus, they will be your responsibility.

The most important thing is to prepare for such an eventuality before you travel. If you have a medical condition, pack all necessary documents and medication. Also conduct a research of your travel destination to know where to go in case you fall sick when traveling in a foreign country.