Summer is here and
many are preparing to go on a long deserved vacation! While packing suitcases and planning
itineraries, the last thing on a person’s mind is: What happens if a medical
emergency arises?
With over 17.5
million tourists visiting Greece every year, Dr. Paterakis , a general practitioner
on the island of Crete, has encountered a great number of problems with his
foreign patients that could have been prevented . From his experience, he has provided the
following list of what foreign travelers should do before and during their
vacation.
Before
leaving:
1)
Invest
in a good travel health insurance policy.
Take the time and read the fine print before signing.
2)
If
you have a chronic health problem, ask your personal doctor for a detailed
written report of your health record and the medicine that has been prescribed.
3)
Learn
about the healthcare system of the country you plan to visit and how it works
in case you need to use it.
4)
Inform
your personal doctor of the country you intend to visit. He might have to change the dosage of your
medication or advise you of any special precautions that may have to be taken.
During your trip:
5)
Since
prevention is the best medicine, try to avoid having accidents. For example, many tourists rent ATVs (All
Terrain Vehicles) without having driven one before. This might pose a health risk.
6)
In
case you do need a medical practitioner, ask the hotel receptionist to
recommend one to you. They usually
collaborate with experienced doctors.
The embassy or consulate of your country may also be able to provide
some assistance in this matter, often in the form of a list of recommended
healthcare experts.
7)
Remember
to tell the doctor all your symptoms, any allergies you might have and the
medication you are using. If there is a
travelling companion with you, take him/her along with you to the doctor.
8) If
there is a language barrier ask for a translator.
9) Follow
the instructions given by the doctor, especially if he or she requests
diagnostic tests to be done.
10) Ask for the doctor’s mobile phone number, in
case a problem arises and you need to contact him/her.
11)
Ask
for a full medical report of your diagnosis and therapy from the doctor in
order to have for you to keep it in your personal records. Do not forget to ask for a receipt so you can
receive compensation from your insurance company.
12)
If
the doctor requests a follow up, do so even if you feel better. Inform the doctor of the date of your return
flight and inquire if you will be ready to travel.
Remember, as well, not to wait too long before
seeking professional help. A health
setback, depending on the problem, does not mean that your vacation will be
totally ruined. With proper medical
attention, a tourist can soon be on the beach again, enjoying all the pleasures
Greece has to offer.
Maria Chionis
teaches Medical English Terminology and Communications Course at the
School of Foreign Languages at the University of Athens.
Dr. Paterakis, general
practitioner,
contact information: email: emmgpaterakis@gmail.com
Smyrnis 33,Hrakleio,Crete
tel.: 2810241044