International Medical Repatriation
What to Do If Faced with a Medical Emergency Abroad – With and Without Travel Insurance
A medical emergency while traveling abroad can be a stressful and costly experience, particularly if you don’t have adequate travel insurance. Knowing what steps to take in an emergency can make all the difference in ensuring you receive the care you need and, if necessary, returning home safely.
If You Have Travel Insurance
Having comprehensive travel insurance can significantly reduce the financial and logistical burden of a medical emergency overseas. If you find yourself in need of urgent medical attention, follow these steps:
Contact Your Insurer Immediately – Most travel insurance policies require you to inform them before seeking treatment (except in emergencies). They can guide you to an approved hospital and confirm what costs will be covered.
Seek Medical Attention – Visit a hospital or clinic that is recommended by your insurer. Some countries have private hospitals that are far superior to public options.
Keep All Documentation – Obtain medical reports, receipts, and any other paperwork required for insurance claims.
Follow the Insurer’s Guidance on Repatriation – If your condition requires transport back to the UK, your travel insurer will assess whether a commercial flight with medical support is sufficient or if an air ambulance is necessary.
If You Do Not Have Travel Insurance
Without travel insurance, a medical emergency can become an overwhelming financial burden. Here’s what you should do:
Seek Medical Help Immediately – In some countries, public hospitals will treat emergencies, but you may need to pay upfront.
In a life-threatening emergency, dial the country's emergency number. 112 works in Europe, but other countries have different numbers. Bear in mind some countries' emergency provision may vary.
Contact Your Embassy – They can help you find medical facilities and provide advice, but they won’t cover medical costs.
Arrange Payment – Some hospitals require proof of payment before providing treatment. You may need to rely on personal funds, family assistance, or crowdfunding.
Check If You Qualify for Free Treatment – In the EU, UK citizens with a GHIC (Global Health Insurance Card) may be entitled to some free or reduced-cost healthcare.
Consider Repatriation Costs – If you need to return to the UK for treatment, you will need to arrange and pay for medical transport.
Double-check your bank account or credit cards. Some include a basic travel insurance policy.
What If You Need Repatriation Without Insurance?
Medical repatriation costs can vary significantly. A commercial flight with a medical escort is often the most affordable option, but in serious cases, an air ambulance may be necessary. Depending on the location, air ambulance costs can range from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of pounds. If you do not have insurance, consider:
Seeking financial assistance from family and friends
Looking into charities or crowdfunding options
Contacting your embassy for support and advice
At Met Medical, we offer free advice on repatriation options and costs, helping you make informed decisions about your return to the UK.
The Risks of Not Declaring Medical Conditions or Engaging in Uncovered Activities
One of the most common mistakes travelers make is failing to declare pre-existing medical conditions when purchasing travel insurance. This can lead to claims being denied, leaving you to cover all medical expenses yourself. Similarly, engaging in high-risk activities (e.g., scuba diving, skiing, extreme sports) without the right insurance coverage can void your policy.
Potential Consequences of Non-Disclosure:
Insurance refusing to pay for treatment
Out-of-pocket medical bills running into the tens or hundreds of thousands
Being stuck in a foreign hospital with no way to get home
The Cost of Medical Care Abroad
Many travelers underestimate the costs of medical treatment abroad. For example:
The average cost of an ICU bed is over $3,500 per day.
In some countries, if you stop paying for treatment, hospitals may withdraw care or even switch off life-support machines.
A trans-Pacific repatriation could easily cost in excess of £250,000.
These costs highlight why travel insurance is essential for financial and medical security when travelling abroad.
Need Advice on Repatriation? We Can Help
At MET Medical, we specialise in all things health and medical transport, including international repatriation by road and air. Not all cases require an air ambulance, and we can help assess the most cost-effective and safe way to get you home. If you or a loved one are facing a medical emergency abroad and need repatriation, contact us for free advice on your options.