Living Abroad
Enjoying a Healthy Expat Life
iStockphotoDo you know where your nearest hospital is?
For most people, living the expat life is an exciting endeavor. Everything looks, sounds, and smells different. You have arrived at your new home and are now ready to dive right into the new experience.
A positive attitude towards expat life is the perfect way to start off. But regardless of how you feel, it is important to keep your common sense when moving about in an unfamiliar environment. Medical issues are a common part of expat life and just another obstacle you may have to cope with.
With our tips, you have little to worry about. After all, living in a foreign country is as safe as you make it, no matter if your new home is in Stratford-Upon-Avon or Cape Town. We will tell you with everything you need to navigate expat life and its particular medical problems without major difficulties.
A Healthy Expat Life: Important Contact Information
The basis for a safe expat life is to know where to turn when things get rough. So, in order to let go of your worries and fully enjoy expat life, create a list with important contact information you need in case of an emergency. This list should include the telephone numbers of hospitals and English-speaking doctors (if you’re not fluent in the local language yet), and the local emergency number.
The address and telephone number of the nearest embassy / consulate and a number to reach your health insurance provider are also essential to be prepared for any calamities. Once you have figured out where the nearest embassy of your home country is, do some more research. You may never need to actually go there, but knowing your embassy’s opening hours and services can’t hurt.
In stressful situations, knowing where and how to get support will give you the necessary peace of mind to cope with expat life.
A Healthy Expat Life: Health Standards
In your home country, medical issues may not have been much of a problem. Of course, at home you know which situations to avoid, how to deal with common risks and how to stay healthy.
However, in a country with a different climate, different hygienic standards and other health issues, falling ill is not an uncommon part of expat life. This is especially the case shortly after your arrival, considering the new stress that comes with expat life in general.
A Healthy Expat Life: Pre-Existing Conditions
If you have a pre-existing condition, then try to prepare for situations related to your medical issues when you plan your expat life. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may be able to predict how badly you need to have assistance readily available.
In any case, it is important that you are able to communicate your situation. You can prepare yourself by learning words and key phrases to describe your condition in the local language. Knowing where and how to get your medication and what to stay to medical personnel is essential. Apart from learning key phrases by heart, you should also write them down and carry a note in your wallet or pocket.
You should also find out about medical precautions for expats, against certain diseases and stay healthy throughout your expat life.
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