Sickness or injury

Many Canadians become ill and require medical assistance when they are outside of Canada.  If you get sick when you are travelling, here’s how to get help:

• Most major tourist hotels have in-house doctors who can provide medical care. Hotels can also arrange appointments with local physicians.
• If you have travel insurance, contact the local number you may have been given or the assistance centre in Canada and ask for a referral.
• If you need urgent care, the best option is often the nearest hospital. In some countries, ambulances may not be common. Use whatever form of transportation you have to get to a hospital. 

Medical emergencies

If you have a medical emergency while abroad, officials at the nearest Canadian government office can help provide the following services:

• Provide a list of physicians, clinics and hospitals.
• Contact your next of kin or person designated in a power of attorney to make decisions in case of incapacity.
• Assist in contacting your insurance company.
• With your permission, contact your medical doctor in Canada and assist him or her in discussing your medical file with the local treating physician.
• Provide assistance for medical evacuation and safe transfer including liaison with service providers.

However please note that the Canadian government does not:

• Pay hospital and medical bills.
• Pay for medical evacuations, air ambulance or other similar commercial services.
• Make decisions pertaining to your medical care.
• Interfere in your medical care.
• Provide medical or legal advice.