QUESTION: Health while traveling: what to do if you fall ill in another country?

Sudden illness in another country is always stressful, but proper preparation and a clear action plan will help minimize any risks. The very first thing you need to do if you feel unwell is to contact your insurance company, whose number is indicated on your medical insurance policy. Under no circumstances should you call an ambulance on your own unless the situation is directly life-threatening, as this can result in huge medical bills that the insurance company may later refuse to reimburse.

To successfully resolve the issue, follow a simple set of instructions that will help you get qualified help and save money.

In addition to emergency measures, it is useful to apply the rule of balanced trip planning, which states: use the 70/30 rule, where seventy percent of the route is planned in advance, and thirty percent is left for spontaneity and proper rest. This approach allows the body to adapt to changes in time zones and climate, reducing overall fatigue and the risk of getting sick from overwork. Allow time for acclimatization in the first days of the trip, especially if you are traveling to tropical countries or regions with sharp temperature drops.