How to Handle a Medical Emergency in a Foreign Country

robferrey
Jul 17
2 min read

Stay calm, stay smart, and stay prepared

Whether you're travelling for business or leisure, facing a medical emergency abroad is one of the most stressful situations you can encounter. Language barriers, unfamiliar systems, and cultural differences can make even minor incidents feel overwhelming.

Here’s how to prepare and respond effectively if it happens to you or someone in your team.

1. Preparation is Protection

The most important part of managing a medical emergency overseas starts before the flight takes off.

Know your destination – Check what type of healthcare is available (public vs private), and whether you'll need insurance or upfront payment.

Carry essential info – Have digital and printed copies of your medical insurance, emergency contacts, allergies, prescriptions, and a translated note of any pre-existing conditions.

Download a translator app – You might not need it, but in a medical situation, even a few basic phrases can help.

2. Act Fast, Stay Calm

If something goes wrong:

Call for help – Know the local emergency number (it's not always 911!). In Europe, it’s 112. In Thailand, it's 1669. Look it up before you land.
Involve your embassy if needed – Especially for serious incidents, your embassy can guide you to approved hospitals or help with translation.
Contact your insurance provider – Some insurers have 24/7 hotlines and will coordinate care or authorise treatment directly with the hospital.

3. Understand the Healthcare Landscape

Healthcare systems vary widely. Some countries have excellent private hospitals but limited public access. Others may expect upfront payment before treating non-citizens.

🩺 Tip: Ask for a doctor who speaks English (or your language), major hospitals often have someone available, especially in big cities.

4. Get a Written Report

Always request written medical documentation and receipts. This will be critical for:

Insurance claims
Follow-up care when you return home
Legal or workplace reporting, if relevant

5. Know Your Limits

Not every emergency means rushing to the hospital. But also don’t wait too long for symptoms to worsen. If you’re unsure, contact your travel insurer's medical support team for advice; many offer free 24/7 telemedicine or nurse hotline services.

6. For Employers & Travel Managers

If you're sending staff abroad, handling medical emergencies isn't just a good idea, it's part of your Duty of Care.

Provide pre-travel training on emergency scenarios
Ensure staff have access to appropriate travel insurance
Share a simple emergency plan tailored to their destination
Keep a contact tree ready for emergency response

Final Thoughts

Medical emergencies don’t wait for convenience. But with the right preparation, clear information, and support, they don’t have to derail your entire trip or put your health at further risk.

At Callida Freemont, our Travel Safety Training includes clear, practical modules on managing medical situations abroad, from what to pack to how to react.

Be ready before it happens.

Explore our ISO-aligned, mobile-ready training today.