Throughout Europe, people with a health problem go first to the pharmacy, not to their doctor. European pharmacists can diagnose and prescribe remedies for many simple problems, such as sore throats, fevers, stomach issues, sinus problems, insomnia, blisters, rashes, urinary tract infections, or muscle, joint, and back pain.
Is it safe to travel to Europe for medical treatment?
If you're worried about getting sick while traveling, rest assured: Most of Europe offers high-quality medical care that's as competent as what you'll find at home. The majority of Europe's doctors and pharmacists speak at least some English, so communication generally isn't an issue.
Do you have the right to arrange medical treatment in Europe?
In certain circumstances, under EU law you have the right to arrange medical treatment, such as consultation with a specialist, surgery or treatment for a specific condition, in other EU countries. Before you do so, make sure you fully understand the extent of your rights and the procedures you need to follow. Find out more about:
How do I go abroad for medical treatment?
Going for medical treatment abroad is not easy and a GP or NHS England can only do so much to help you. You'll have to make the arrangements yourself, including finding a healthcare provider and making all the travel arrangements.
What is the health care like 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. If an accident or life-threatening medical problem occurs on the road, get to a hospital.
Is medical treatment free in Europe?
Every citizen is enrolled in the national healthcare system and a good portion of medical services are provided free of charge by doctors who are employed by the government. In some (if not all) of these countries, there is some room for private insurance companies to operate and for doctors to run private practices.
Can I get healthcare in Europe?
A GHIC lets you get medically necessary state healthcare in Europe at a reduced cost or sometimes for free. If your EHIC is still in date, you do not need to apply for a new GHIC .
Can you get medical treatment in another country?
People may travel to another country to get health care for many reasons, including: Cost: To get treatment or a procedure that may be cheaper in another country. Culture: To receive care from a healthcare provider who shares the traveler's culture and language.
What is the best country in Europe for medical?
Europe's best healthcare systemsSwitzerland.The Netherlands.Norway.Denmark.Belgium.Finland.Luxembourg.Sweden.More items...•
What countries are covered by the European Health Insurance Card?
You can use your European Health Insurance Card in any European Union or European Economic Area (EEA) country and in Switzerland. Currently, the EEA comprises of the 27 member states of the European Union together with Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein.
How long does a European health Card take to come?
within 10 daysUsually though, your card should arrive within 10 days.
What happens if you don't have health insurance and you go to the hospital?
However, if you don't have health insurance, you will be billed for all medical services, which may include doctor fees, hospital and medical costs, and specialists' payments. Without an insurer to absorb some or even most of those costs, the bills can increase exponentially.
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. They are available for emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, overseas and in Washington, DC (888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444).
Which country has free healthcare for tourists?
Countries with universal healthcare include Austria, Belarus, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Isle of Man, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.
Which country is best for medical treatment?
South Korea has the best health care systems in the world, that's according to the 2021 edition of the CEOWORLD magazine Health Care Index, which ranks 89 countries according to factors that contribute to overall health.
What country is #1 in healthcare?
Best Healthcare in the World 2022CountryLPI 2020 RankingLPI 2019 RankingDenmark12Norway21Switzerland33Sweden4494 more rows
Who has best health care in world?
Switzerland. Switzerland comes top of the Euro Health Consumer Index 2018, and it's firmly above the eleven-country average in the Commonwealth Fund's list too. There are no free, state-run services here – instead, universal healthcare is achieved by mandatory private health insurance and some government involvement.
What is a clinic in Europe?
A clinic is useful if you need to be checked for a non-emergency medical issue, get some tests done, or if your problem is beyond a pharmacist's scope. Clinics in Europe operate just like those in the US: You'll sign in with the receptionist, answer a few questions, then take a seat and wait for a nurse or doctor.
What does universal health care mean 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.
What to do if you're sick in a hotel room?
If you're holed up sick in your hotel room and would rather not go out, the hotel receptionist can generally call a doctor who will come to your room and check you out. This option is generally more expensive than dragging yourself to a pharmacy or clinic.
What is the emergency number for the European Union?
In most countries, you can call 112, the European Union's universal emergency number for ambulance, fire department, or police. Most countries also have a 911 equivalent that works as well. Or you can ask your hotelier, restaurant host, or whoever's around to call an ambulance (or a taxi for less dire situations).
Is it interesting to travel to a foreign clinic?
A trip to a foreign clinic is actually an interesting travel experience. Every few years I end up in a European clinic for one reason or another, and every time I'm impressed by its efficiency and effectiveness.
Does Europe have good medical care?
If you're worried about getting sick while traveling, rest assured: Most of Europe offers high-quality medical care that's as competent as what you'll find at home. The majority of Europe's doctors and pharmacists speak at least some English, so communication generally isn't an issue.
Do you have to pay for medical bills out of pocket?
Be aware that you will likely have to pay out of pocket for any medical treatment, even if your insurance company provides international health care coverage. A visit to the emergency room can be free or cost only a nominal fee, or it can be expensive, depending on where you are and what treatment you need.
How to apply for a Schengen Medical Treatment Visa?
You do not need to apply for a Schengen visa for medical treatment if you are a national of a Schengen-area country.
How Soon can you get a Schengen Medical Treatment Visa?
All Schengen visas take approximately 15 days to process. However, depending on the applicant’s health condition, you could receive your visa sooner than that. You must provide proof that you need a Schengen visa for medical treatment as soon as possible.
Can you get a Schengen Medical Treatment Visa extension?
Normally, a Schengen medical treatment visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days. However, in certain cases, you may be able to extend it. These include:
