Kuwait is a small but wealthy country located in the Middle East. In the event of a medical emergency, it is important to know how to access emergency medical assistance and where to go for emergency medical treatment.
Phone Number for Emergency Medical Assistance
The phone number to call for emergency medical assistance in Kuwait is 112. This number can be called from any phone, including landlines and mobile phones. When calling this number, you will be connected to the Kuwaiti Emergency Medical Services (EMS), which will dispatch an ambulance to your location.
For mental health emergencies, the Kuwaiti Mental Health Unit provides a hotline service that is available 24/7. The hotline number is 248 32040.
Where to go for Emergency Medical Treatment
In Kuwait, there are several hospitals that provide emergency medical treatment. The most well-known hospital is the Al Sabah Hospital, which is the largest and most comprehensive public hospital in Kuwait. It is located in the capital city of Kuwait City and provides a wide range of medical services, including emergency medical treatment.
Other public hospitals that provide emergency medical treatment include the Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital and the Farwaniya Hospital. There are also several private hospitals in Kuwait that provide emergency medical treatment, such as the Al Salam International Hospital and the Dar Al Shifa Hospital.
It is important to note that not all hospitals in Kuwait are equipped to handle all types of emergencies. For example, if you are experiencing a heart attack or stroke, it is recommended to go directly to Al Sabah Hospital, which has a dedicated cardiac center.
Cost of Emergency Treatment
In Kuwait, emergency treatment is not free. There is a cost involved for both public and private hospitals. The cost of emergency treatment can vary depending on the hospital, the type of treatment required, and the individual’s insurance coverage.
In general, public hospitals in Kuwait are more affordable than private hospitals. However, the quality of care may also be lower in public hospitals. It is important to note that if you are a foreigner living or visiting Kuwait, you may be required to pay for emergency treatment upfront before receiving care.
Insurance Requirements
In Kuwait, it is not mandatory to have health insurance. However, it is highly recommended, especially for expatriates living in Kuwait. Most employers provide health insurance coverage for their employees, but it is important to check the specifics of the insurance policy to ensure that emergency medical treatment is covered.
If you do not have health insurance, it is important to be aware of the potential costs involved in emergency medical treatment. Without insurance, the cost of emergency treatment can be very expensive, which can cause financial hardship for individuals and families.
In the event of a medical emergency in Kuwait, it is important to remain calm and call the emergency medical services at 112. Knowing where to go for emergency medical treatment and understanding the potential costs involved can help you make informed decisions during a medical emergency. It is also important to have health insurance coverage, especially for expatriates living in Kuwait, to help cover the costs of emergency medical treatment.