IMPORTANT TO KNOW: CALLING AN AMBULANCE AND ACCESSING PUBLIC HOSPITALS
IMPORTANT TO KNOW: CALLING AN AMBULANCE AND ACCESSING PUBLIC HOSPITALS
Recently, more and more foreign nationals have contacted us with complaints about the following situations:
• While staying at hotels, guests are often denied ambulance service by the staff, who instead direct them to private clinics with which the hotels have partnerships.
• Guests are told that they will not be accepted at public hospitals if they do not have local health insurance or if they are foreigners.
Official clarification:
• In emergency situations (life-threatening conditions, loss of consciousness, severe pain, etc.), you have the full right to call an ambulance, regardless of your nationality.
• Ambulance services are free for everyone — whether you are a tourist, a residence permit holder, or any other foreign citizen.
• You also have the right to seek care at a public hospital with your passport or residence permit — and they are obligated to accept you.
• The claim that "tourists are not accepted" is false. Public hospitals are open to everyone.
Medical services in public hospitals are paid, but the costs are much lower than in private clinics, while the quality of care remains at a decent and reliable level.
At public hospitals, you will receive a queue number and wait your turn like all other patients. It may be less comfortable than private clinics, but public hospitals offer a reliable and affordable option for receiving medical care.
Please note that most public hospitals do not provide translator services. In such cases, the Foreigners Support Center is ready to assist you.
Your health is a priority. Do not let misinformation prevent you from receiving the care you need.
Foreigners Support Center Contact Information:
Phone: 444 2 103
WhatsApp: +90 505 755 66 77
Telegram: t.me/ydmturk
All our services are completely free of charge.
