Bali Emergency Readiness: Medical Evacuation and Critical Care Guide
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While Bali offers high-tier medical clinics for routine care, a critical health emergency requires a specialized strategy. Understanding the limitations of local infrastructure and having a "fast-track" plan for evacuation is essential for every expat family.
## Hospital Tiers: Know Where to Go
In an emergency, knowing the capabilities of each facility can save precious time.
- **Tier 1: International standard (BIMC, Siloam).** Best for acute emergencies, trauma, and stabilization. They have English-speaking staff and sophisticated diagnostics.
- **Tier 2: Specialized local [hospitals](/en/living/health) (Kasih Ibu).** Excellent for specific needs like pediatrics or maternity, often with modern facilities.
- **Tier 3: Public General Hospitals (RSUP Sanglah).** The island's tertiary referral center. While basic in amenities, they have the most advanced equipment for complex surgeries and intensive care.
## Medical Evacuation: The Safety Net
For highly complex conditions or life-threatening situations, stabilization in Bali followed by evacuation to Singapore or Australia is the standard professional recommendation.
- **Why Evacuate?:** While local doctors are capable, the "continuity of care" and availability of highly specialized specialists and equipment in neighboring hubs is significantly higher.
- **Evacuation Insurance:** Ensure your policy includes "Emergency Medical Evacuation" with a high limit (min $100,000+). Without this, a private air ambulance can cost upwards of $40,000 USD out of pocket.
- **Providers:** Companies like Allianz Care, Cigna Global, and Bupa are highly regarded for their evacuation coordination.
## Crisis Activation Steps
When an emergency happens, follow these steps to activate your support network.
- **Call the Hospital Directly:** Save the direct numbers for BIMC and Siloam emergency departments in your phone. Do not rely on 112 as the primary response.
- **Contact Your Insurer Immediately:** They must approve the "Guarantee of Payment" (GOP) for major treatments or evacuation.
- **Keep Documents Ready:** Have digital copies of your family's passports, insurance certificates, and medical history (allergies, medications) easily accessible.
## FAQ
### Q: "Does standard travel insurance cover medical evacuation?"
### Q: "How long does a medical evacuation take to organize?"
### Q: "What are the best emergency numbers to save?"