A Extra Benefit of Cruising - Medical Staff

If you have ever been on a vacation and found yourself in the unfortunate situation of needing medical attention you know how stressful that can be. It can be bad enough trying to find a clinic or hospital in a strange city but in another country, who knows what you might be walking into. 

One benefit of cruising is that you are traveling with medical staff that is trained and well equipped for most any situation. But let's make it clear. The ship does not have a complete hospital on board but does have what is the equivalent to a very well equipped walk in clinic. 

Most ships travel with a doctor and two nurses but some of the larger ships have a couple of doctors and up to 6 nurses. The cruise lines work with the American College of Emergency Physicians. The medical staff is certified and trained in emergency medicine, family medicine and internal medicine. They have at least 3 years of post graduate experience. They also need to be certified in life support. 

Most people who ever visit the ships medical staff are walk ins who are there for upset stomachs, sprains, minor cuts, and dehydration. In the case of an emergency you can call from any ships phone. Just like calling 911. Since the medical staff is trained in life saving techniques they can help sustain someone until they can reach port or have someone airlifted off the ship.

When it comes to paying for your services it can get tricky as payment is due right away. The medical staff are independent contractors. Your bill will be charged to your ships account. If you are using a cash account you will need to settle up before you get off the ship. If you have tied a credit card to your account you will be set to go unless you don't have a high enough limit to pay for your charges.

Once on shore you will have been given a copy of your bill to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. Be aware that most insurance companies do not cover you when you are out of the country. This is where the importance of trip insurance comes in. 

Having a medical staff travel with you is just another of the reasons why cruising is a great value and can give you another level of stress free travel. 

We are Tim & Lori and are known as "The Cruising Together Couple"  

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