When you are abroad then everything seems difficult.
You are afraid if you get sick medical doctors are not going to understand your language and maybe you think you wouldn’t be taken care of as well as local people. But nothing can stop you from traveling, that’s why you should worry less and travel more. And also, remember that you always have the option of doctor online consultation.
If you are traveling to Europe, then you should study their laws and regulations about health care. The majority of European nations enjoy universal healthcare. Although it’s sometimes referred to as Europe’s “free health care,” it’s not really free. Everybody pays for health care as a society, with the goal of reducing overall costs and spreading out risk so that an unlucky few are not bankrupted by medical expenses. While each country has its unique variations. Additionally, it guarantees that individuals who are poor can access the medical care they might not otherwise be able to afford.
Europe’s universal healthcare does mean that everyone is taken care of, including foreigners, even though no system is flawless. Therefore, if you become unwell or are hurt while traveling, you will receive care without hesitation. The healthcare professional will just take care of your health and nothing else will matter to her/him.
Nowadays most people even go abroad in order to get medical help. We call it medical tourism when you go to some country to get medical help. For example, a lot of people go for medical radiology.
Emergencies in Europe
Get to a hospital if a medical emergency or accident occurs while you are driving. Call an ambulance if you are experiencing a critical ailment. You can dial 112, the EU’s universal emergency number, to contact the police, fire department, or ambulance in the majority of nations. Most nations also have functional 911 alternatives. Or you can request that whoever is nearby, such as the host at a restaurant or motel, call an ambulance.
Even if your insurance carrier offers overseas healthcare coverage, be aware that you will likely have to pay out of cash for any medical treatment. Depending on where you are and what treatment you require, a trip to the emergency department may be free, incur a small fee, or cost a significant amount of money. So that you can submit a claim for reimbursement when you get home, make sure to grab a copy of your bill. Call the company right once to report the injury if you purchased travel insurance to act as your primary medical coverage. To have your debts reimbursed, they can typically negotiate directly with the hospital.
Pharmacies in Europe
People with health issues in Europe typically visit the drugstore before visiting their doctor. Many common ailments, including sore throats, fevers, stomachaches, sinus problems, sleeplessness, blisters, rashes, urinary tract infections, or muscle, joint, and back pain, can be diagnosed and treated by European pharmacists. At least a few 24-hour pharmacies may be found in most cities.
Expect some changes between how things are done in Europe and back home when it comes to medication. In Europe, some medications that require a prescription in the US are sold without a prescription. There are various names for some medications. Additionally, the dosages and instructions should be carefully followed because some prescriptions from Europe may be stronger than those from the US. Additionally, topical medications are widely used in Europe; if you have any swelling or body aches, don’t be shocked if a pharmacist recommends a cream to apply to the troublesome area. A pharmacy can typically handle the prescription filling process quickly, even if you need to do it from home. A pharmacist will refer you to a doctor or a clinic if they are unable to assist you.
What do they tell you?
You can receive information on your right to preplanned medical care in another EU country from your health insurance provider. They can provide you with more details, in particular, on reimbursements, prior authorization, and any limitations on receiving medical care overseas.
A hospital, clinic, or other medical facility providing healthcare must inform you of:
Different treatment options, quality, and safety, the authorization or registration status of the healthcare provider, etc., to let you make an informed decision about your medical treatment before your treatment takes place – and give you a clear invoice afterward to facilitate reimbursement of their liability insurance or equivalent several ways for defraying the cost of therapy.
