What to do in a medical emergency while travelling: your guide to peace of mind

When travelling, you're probably focused on the exciting places you'll see, the people you'll meet, and the experiences that await you. But emergencies can happen anywhere, and being prepared for a medical issue while travelling can make a challenging situation much easier to handle. Knowing what steps to take, whom to contact, and how to use your travel insurance can turn a potentially stressful experience into a manageable one. Here's a guide on what to do in a medical emergency while abroad to keep you safe and give you peace of mind.

1. Assess the situation calmly

In any medical emergency, the first step is to stay as calm as possible. Whether it's a minor injury or a more serious issue, taking a moment to evaluate the situation will help you make clear decisions. If you're injured, determine the severity-can you manage it on your own, or will you need medical assistance? If you're with someone else, try to keep them calm, too, and offer reassurance if needed.

Why calmness matters

Panicking can make any situation feel more overwhelming, so taking deep breaths and assessing the situation can help you make better decisions. In many cases, this clear thinking allows you to act more quickly and effectively.

2. Contact local emergency services if needed

If the situation is critical, contact local emergency services as soon as possible. Every country has its own emergency contact numbers, so it's a good idea to note down the emergency numbers for police, medical services, and fire departments before you arrive. In many countries, the standard emergency number is 112 or 911, but it varies, so be sure you know the correct number for your destination.

How travel insurance can assist

If you're unsure where to go or if local help isn't easily available, your travel insurance provider's assistance line can often help you contact local emergency services. Some insurers also work with a network of preferred hospitals and doctors, ensuring you receive quality care when it's most needed.

3. Call your travel insurance provider's emergency assistance line

As soon as you've arranged any necessary immediate assistance, call your travel insurance provider's 24/7 emergency assistance line. This team is trained to provide guidance and support, helping you find the nearest medical facility, arrange transportation if needed, and start the process for covering medical expenses. Having an insurer who can assist with local healthcare navigation, translation, and logistics can be invaluable.

What to expect from the assistance team

The assistance team can help with direct payment of medical bills in foreign currency, critical aspects of your care, such as advising on reputable hospitals, handling language barriers, and working with local doctors to understand your needs. They may also arrange medical transportation if needed and ensure you're receiving suitable care.

4. Keep essential documents handy

Having your travel insurance details, passport, and identification close by is extremely helpful in an emergency. These documents will be needed to verify your identity, communicate with medical providers, and manage your insurance claims. If you're travelling with an electronic copy of your insurance policy and identification, make sure they're accessible on your phone or another device.

Key documents to keep

• Travel insurance policy number and contact details
• Passport or identification
• Emergency contacts for family or friends back home

By keeping these documents organised and accessible, you can speed up the assistance process and avoid additional stress.

5. Arrange follow-up care and stay in contact with your insurer

After initial treatment, it's important to follow your doctor's recommendations for follow-up care. If your condition requires extended treatment, the insurance assistance team can help coordinate next steps, arrange medical transport if necessary, and ensure you're comfortable. Staying in contact with your insurer ensures they're aware of your needs and that your cover can be managed as the situation develops.

The role of your insurer in ongoing care

Most insurers are experienced in handling extended medical emergencies abroad and can provide updates to your family, help arrange accommodation if needed and offer ongoing support. This level of coordination is invaluable when navigating a challenging situation far from home.

How Santam Travel Insurance supports you in a medical emergency

Santam Travel Insurance provides comprehensive support in medical emergencies, offering financial protection and guidance to help you manage unexpected health issues abroad. Here's what Santam Travel Insurance offers:

• 24/7 emergency assistance: Access the assistance team any time, day or night, to get help with locating healthcare facilities, coordinating treatment, and managing claims.
• Emergency medical treatment: Covers costs related to hospital stays, doctor visits, and emergency medical care in case of illness or injury.
• Medical transportation and repatriation: If necessary, Santam Travel Insurance covers the cost of medical transportation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriation back home once you are stable.
• Quarantine cover: If you're required to quarantine due to an infectious disease, Santam Travel Insurance covers additional accommodation costs to make sure you're comfortable and safe.

With these protections, Santam Travel Insurance ensures that your health is a priority and that you have the support needed to manage any medical emergency confidently.