What To Do If You Are Ill On Holiday
Your travel policy’s packed but what actually happens if you’re sick abroad and need help? 1 in 4 over 50’s get ill abroad according to Saga Travel Insurance, and most of them are more likely to ask hotel staff for advice on doctors and hospitals rather than calling their insurer first.
The problem is that in many countries, the locals may direct tourists to the more expensive private hospitals, and if you don’t check with your insurer first, it could mean a big bill, as most policies cover care in state rather than “private” hospitals.
In a dire emergency, if you’re taken straight to a private hospital, insurers like Saga will of course cover medical costs, although a move to another hospital may be an option once it’s safe to transfer you there.
If you’re travelling alone and nobody’s sure if you have insurance, hospital staff may go through your things to find some ID so they can contact a family member to let them know where you are.
Always keep any emergency contact details in your passport and up to date, and keep travel policy details with you. Before travelling I always take a photo of both my passport and policy on my phone for emergencies.
If you don’t have insurance you’ll have to rely on your EHIC (European Health Insurance Card). This means free or reduced cost treatment, but it won’t cover the cost of family staying with you or being flown home if you’re seriously ill.