What happens if I get sick in a foreign country?
Asked by: Dr. Hobart Wehner | Last update: June 2, 2025Score: 4.7/5 (22 votes)
What happens if you need to go to the hospital in a different country?
The U.S. government does not pay overseas medical bills. The patient must pay all hospital and other expenses. You can find lists of doctors and hospitals in the country you are visiting. Check the website of the U.S. embassy in the country you are visiting.
What happens if an American gets sick in Europe?
While no system is perfect, Europe's universal health care does mean that everyone is taken care of — including foreigners. So if you get sick or injured while traveling, you will receive treatment, no questions asked.
Does health insurance cover out of country?
U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover medical costs overseas. Private U.S. insurance policies also might not cover any or all expenses. Check with your insurance before traveling to see if it provides coverage overseas. More information is also available on the CDC insurance page.
What happens if a tourist gets sick in the US without insurance?
If a tourist gets sick in the USA without insurance, they are responsible for covering all medical expenses out of pocket. Healthcare in the USA is expensive, and even basic treatments or emergency services can result in significant bills.
Claire Newell - Travel Tips: What to do if you get sick abroad
What to do if you get sick in a foreign country?
Special care if you become ill or injured while traveling
Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate for a list of local healthcare providers and medical facilities. If your illness is serious, consular officers can help you find medical assistance. If you want, they can inform your family and friends.
What happens if I go to the ER without insurance?
Despite the financial hurdles, uninsured emergency patients are provided with legal safeguards. The Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA) is a federal law that requires anyone coming to an emergency department to be stabilized and treated, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay.
Can I use my health insurance card in another country?
Does my health insurance work internationally? Many health insurance plans do not cover you when you are out of the country. For those that do, the coverage is often limited and requires you to pay at the time of service, save receipts and file for reimbursement once you get home.
What to do if you have a medical emergency abroad?
- The nearest US embassy or consulate can help travelers locate medical services and notify your friends, family, or employer of an emergency. ...
- The US Department of State maintains a list of travel medical and evacuation insurance providers.
What happens if you don't pay a hospital bill from another country?
If no action is taking on your medical bill and you do not pay what is owed, additional charges can be added to your account balance in the form of late fees and interest. Additionally, the healthcare provider can move your balance into international debt collection or file a lawsuit against you.
What happens if an American gets sick in Italy?
In Italy, patients are free to choose between public hospitals and private hospitals. Public hospitals normally provide both emergency and non-emergency services. At public hospitals, patients may receive emergency services at no cost or upon payment of a limited contribution, depending on the public hospital's policy.
What happens if you get sick on vacation?
If you get sick while traveling, it will most likely be a stomach virus like norovirus, a cold or the flu. Usually, treatment involves drinking lots of water, rest and taking care of your symptoms. But it's also a good idea to keep an eye out for signs of infection such as high fever, chills, headache and fatigue.
Can I see a doctor in another country?
Consult Your Embassy or Consulate
Another useful resource for finding a doctor abroad is your embassy or consulate. For example, U.S. citizens can often find a list of international hospitals and doctors under the "American Citizens Services" section of their embassy's website.
What happens if an American goes to the hospital in Europe?
It depends on whether their insurance covers international hospitals, otherwise they have to pay for medical attention just like everyone else does. Emergency medical care in Asia and Europe is really cheap and in some places it's even free.
What happens if you have an emergency in another country?
If you are a U.S. citizen who needs assistance outside the U.S., find and contact the nearest U.S. embassy for help with: Foreign crises and natural disasters. Lost or stolen passports. Medical emergencies.
What happens if an American gets sick in Canada?
Canada does not pay for hospital or medical services for visitors. You should get health insurance to cover any medical costs before you come to Canada.
Does US health insurance cover you in Europe?
Generally, most domestic health insurance policies are not accepted abroad, so there is a benefit to purchasing travel medical insurance as a supplement to your health insurance coverage. The travel medical coverage is only valid while you're traveling.
What if an American gets sick in France?
In Case of Medical Emergency
If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please contact French Emergency Services. For life or death emergencies, dial 112 for immediate assistance.
What to do if you get the flu while traveling?
If you become ill with flu symptoms, seek medical attention if they are severe. If you traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to a healthcare provider and tell them about any areas you recently traveled to. If you need medical care abroad, Getting Health Care During Travel.
What happens if an American goes to the hospital in Portugal?
Please note: Portugal does not offer free medical treatment to visitors, and under European Union rules non-EU citizens are required to have travel medical insurance covering emergency medical, hospitalization, and repatriation (including the case of death).
What happens if you get injured in another country?
If you have a medical emergency while abroad the cost may be covered by the travel insurance you purchased before your trip. Travel insurance is designed for things like emergency services, an air ambulance (to move you off of a cruise ship quickly in an emergency situation), or general medical bills.
Can I use my United healthcare in another country?
No matter where your assignment takes you, you have access to the health care resources you need. Your UnitedHealthcare Global insurance plan works efficiently and simply, wherever you are in the world.
How much does an ER visit cost with insurance?
The cost of an ER visit for an insured patient varies according to the insurance plan and the nature and severity of their condition. Some plans cover a percentage of the total cost once you meet your deductible, while others charge an average co-pay of $50 to $500.
What do you say to get seen faster in an emergency room?
Be specific: Describe your symptoms in detail. Instead of saying “I feel sick,” explain the specific symptoms you are experiencing, such as nausea, dizziness, or chest pain. This will help the medical staff understand the urgency of your situation. Use descriptive language: Paint a vivid picture of your symptoms.
Can you ignore ER bills?
Ignoring Medical Bills Creates Problems: Credit Score Damage, Debt Collectors, Lawsuits. Explore Solutions: Payment Plans, Financial Aid, & Potential Personal Injury Claim.