Vaccinations
Receiving travel vaccinations can protect you and your family from bearing serious illnesses after moving abroad. While there aren’t many travel warnings in North America, Western Europe or Australia, if you are planning to move outside these areas it is important you see a doctor and update any needed vaccinations. Four to eight weeks before travel is the recommended period in which to consult your doctor, but for those leaving for places with serious health issues or for very long periods, more time may be needed.
If you are leaving on assignment last minute and don’t have the recommended time before leaving for the vaccines to take effect, it is still recommended you protect yourself with the immunizations, as they can take effect after you arrive and offer more protection faster than if you had waited until arrival.
Public vs. Private Health Care
Most developing countries offer health care through public and private hospitals. Public hospitals exist in both rural and urban areas. However, the facilities available at these hospitals are far from satisfactory in most cases. These hospitals serve all residents and often expats find that hospitals and care centers outside main cities do not have adequate machines or other necessary equipment.
On the other hand, private hospitals offer good quality treatment and the standard of service available is anything from acceptable to excellent. There are many good private clinics and hospitals in all major cities. You must carry personal items like clothes and toiletries when you check in to a hospital and have a friend or family member check on you to see if you need anything else from time to time. All this care comes at a price but it is worth your wellbeing. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule and you may well find unfit private medical centers as well. Your best option is to be prepared with a list of recommended facilities from your embassy to ensure you don’t walk into a center ill equipped to handle your needs.
Health care in these countries generally costs very little compared to its cost in Western countries. However, private health insurance is an advantage, especially if you will be seeking care in a country with few up to date healthcare facilities.
Emergency Services
The emergency services in developing countries are not as prompt and efficient as those in Western countries. In case of an emergency the best way to reach a hospital or medical facility is your own transportation. Always keep a list of emergency numbers you can call and a map of the shortest route to a hospital or clinic with you. Calling a taxi is the next best thing to do. Speak slowly and clearly so that the taxi driver and hospital staff can understand the problem.
Including an evacuation clause in your health insurance policy might be a good idea in emergencies so that you can gain access to the best health care facilities in the world. You might also want to consider getting in touch with your embassy for information on where to find English speaking doctors. You may also contact customer support of your health insurance provider for assistance.
More Expat Resources
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