Healthcare abroad

Before you go

Research your destination’s healthcare system

Find out if it’s public, private, or mixed.
Learn how emergency care works — what’s the local emergency number?
(e.g., 112 in the EU, 999 in the UK, 911 in the US, 000 in Australia.)

Check your health insurance coverage

Contact your provider to confirm if international care is included.
Ask about medical evacuation (air transport) — important for serious conditions.
If not covered, consider travel health insurance or expat insurance.

Gather your medical information

Bring a english language summary of your medical history, including:
- Diagnoses and allergies
- Current medications (generic names)
- Emergency contacts and physician info
- A symptom list is not a necessity, but can be very helpful
Keep both digital and paper copies.

Get necessary vaccinations or documentation

Know where to go for care

Save the names and addresses of nearby hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies.
Check if there’s an English-speaking medical center or embassy-recommended doctor.
Check if the specialist you're seeing can assist you in case of emergency or sudden worsening of symptoms.

While You’re Abroad

Carry your insurance card and medical ID

For ongoing conditions

Language barriers

If you need urgent care

Contact the doctor you're there to see, if theres sudden worsening of your symptoms.
Go to an emergency department (ER/A&E) for serious illness or injury.
For less urgent issues, private clinics often have shorter wait times.
Contact your insurer as soon as possible — they can coordinate and guarantee payment.

GENERAL TRAVEL TIPS

Pack Strategically

Bring medical documents: Include prescriptions, doctor’s notes, and emergency information.
Pack extra medication & supplies: Don’t rely on local availability—bring more than you expect to need.
Mobility aids: If using a wheelchair, cane, or other aids, check airline and transport policies. Bring any tools or spare parts in case of repairs.
Bring adapters to charge equipment

Book Accessible Accommodations

Call, don’t just book online: Accessibility standards vary; a “wheelchair accessible” room may still have a step at the door.
Request specifics: Ask about door widths, grab bars, roll-in showers, elevator access, if they provide aids such as a showerchair etc
Consider location: Stay near accessible public transport or the hospital you're going to, to reduce commuting stress.

Transportation Considerations

Accessible public transit: Check if buses, trains, and metro systems offer ramps, lifts, or priority seating.
Wheelchair taxis or car rentals: Reserve these in advance if needed.
Parking permits: If you have a disability parking placard, check if it’s recognized in the country you're visiting.

Prepare for Emergencies

Emergency contact list: Include both local (embassy, emergency services) and home contacts.
Insurance for pre existing conditions: Get travel insurance that covers your specific medical and accessibility needs.
Plan for lost/damaged equipment: Know where to get repairs or replacements if needed. Bring a toolkit for your wheelchair/walker.
Get an English language medical alert band/tag, or have your companion carry a document with vital medical infomation, in case of emergency

Portable fan - to help with temperature dysregulation
A good neck pillow - to provide support and be more comfortable during travel
Neck brace (if cleared by doctor) - to protect the neck and minimize symptoms
Mask - to protect yourself from virus, infection and mast cell triggers
Foot hammock - for comfort and to minimize blood pooling
Noise cancelling headphones and sunglasses - if you’re sensitive to stimuli
A medical alert bracelet - to provide important information in case of an emergency
Compression socks - to minimize bloodpooling and help dysautonomia symptoms