Some tips on finding a doctor abroad                                   Back

Near the end of my last trip to Bali, what started out as a running nose soon turned into a full blown virus. I ached from head to toe, felt weak and even had a fever. Luckily my driver stopped by to see if I wanted to go to a ceremony at his village temple. Seeing my condition he immediately took me to his family doctor. I probably would have spent a few days in bed trying to shake off my cold.

It cost me $5.00 for the office visit and I was taken right away, ahead of some Balinese who were in the waiting room, thought I didn't feel this was right, I went along with their custom of taking care of guests first. The $5.00 included a ten day supply of antibiotics plus a ten day supply of a decongestant.

I mention this only so you'll understand that a friend or acquaintance who lives in the area your visiting is probably your best contact with the local medical community, however It may be wise, especially for an extended stay, to familiarize yourself with the local medical facilities. i.e. where can you fill your prescriptions, where is the local hospital, doctors, etc. Will anyone accept your health insurance.

Most major hotels have medical staff, or will set you on the right path to finding the medical assistance you need, however if they don't accept your health insurance, it could be very costly. (Not all places are as inexpensive as Bali.)

Check with your insurance company, before you leave, to see if your covered while out of the country. If your not you may want to think about getting a supplementary policy either from your company or an independent insurer.

THE SOCIAL SECURITY MEDICARE PROGRAM DOES NOT PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR HOSPITAL OR MEDICAL COSTS OUTSIDE THE U.S.A.

Senior citizens may wish to contact the American Association of Retired Persons for information about foreign medical care coverage with Medicare supplement plans.

Some web sites that may help you prepare for you trip:

U. S. State Dept. Bureau of Consular Affairs

World Wide Assistance:

My Dr.  An Australian site with some good information