What to Do in a Medical Emergency in the US
Emergency guide for international students
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Medical Emergencies: Know What to Do
Medical emergencies can happen at any time, and when you're an international student in a foreign country, they can be even more stressful. But being prepared can make all the difference. Here's what you need to know about handling medical emergencies in the US.
Imagine this: You're a student from Japan studying at the University of Texas at Austin. One evening, you experience severe chest pain and difficulty breathing. You're alone in your apartment, and you don't know what to do. What steps should you take?
Step 1: Call 911
In the US, the emergency number is 911. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. If you're experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately.
When you call 911, be prepared to provide:
- Your location (address or cross streets)
- A description of the emergency
- Your name and contact information
- Any medical information (allergies, current medications)
Step 2: Know Your Health Insurance
Before an emergency happens, make sure you understand your health insurance coverage. Keep your insurance card with you at all times.
| Type of Coverage | What It Covers | How to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| University-Sponsored Plan | Emergency care, hospitalization, doctor visits | Show your insurance card at the hospital |
| Private Insurance | Varies by plan | Check your policy for emergency coverage |
| Student Health Insurance | Basic coverage, may have limitations | Contact your insurance provider |
Step 3: Understand Emergency Room Procedures
When you arrive at the emergency room (ER), you'll be triaged by a nurse. This means they'll assess the severity of your condition and prioritize treatment.
Here's what to expect:
- Triage: A nurse will ask about your symptoms and medical history.
- Waiting Room: You may need to wait before seeing a doctor, depending on the severity of your condition.
- Examination: A doctor will examine you and order any necessary tests.
- Treatment: You'll receive treatment, which may include medication, surgery, or hospitalization.
- Bill: You'll receive a bill for the services. Make sure to submit this to your insurance company.
Step 4: After the Emergency
Once you've received treatment, there are a few things you need to do:
- Follow Up: Make sure to follow your doctor's instructions for recovery.
- Submit Claim: Submit your medical bills to your insurance company for reimbursement.
- Update Records: Notify your university's health services of any changes to your health status.
- Emergency Contacts: Make sure your emergency contacts are up to date.
Case Study: Mei's Story
Mei is a student from China studying at the University of California, Los Angeles. One morning, she woke up with severe abdominal pain. She didn't know what was wrong, but she knew it was serious.
Here's what she did:
- First 30 Minutes: Mei called 911 and described her symptoms. An ambulance arrived and took her to the nearest hospital.
- At the Hospital: Mei was triaged and seen by a doctor within 30 minutes. She was diagnosed with appendicitis and needed emergency surgery.
- After Surgery: Mei spent two days in the hospital recovering. Her university-sponsored health insurance covered most of the costs.
- Follow Up: Mei followed up with her primary care doctor a week later and made a full recovery.
Mei's advice? "Don't hesitate to call 911 if you're in pain. The emergency services are there to help, and your insurance should cover it."
Preparing for Medical Emergencies
Here are some tips to help you prepare for medical emergencies:
- Know your insurance: Keep your insurance card with you and understand what's covered.
- Know emergency numbers: Save 911 in your phone. Also save your university's health services number.
- Keep medical records: Have copies of your medical history, allergies, and current medications.
- Designate emergency contacts: Make sure someone in the US knows you and can be reached in case of emergency.
- Learn basic first aid: Consider taking a first aid course to learn how to handle minor emergencies.
Medical emergencies are scary, but being prepared can help you stay calm and get the help you need. Remember, 911 is always available, and your university is there to support you.
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FAQ - Medical Emergencies
What number should I call in a medical emergency?
Call 911. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services across the US.
Will my health insurance cover emergency room visits?
Most health insurance plans cover emergency care, but it depends on your specific plan. Check your policy for details on coverage and co-pays.
What should I do if I don't have health insurance?
Even without insurance, you can still receive emergency care. However, you may be responsible for the full cost of treatment. Consider enrolling in a health insurance plan as soon as possible.
How do I find the nearest hospital?
When you call 911, the dispatcher will send an ambulance to your location. You can also use Google Maps to find the nearest hospital.
Can I request a translator at the hospital?
Yes, hospitals are required by law to provide language assistance services, including interpreters, for patients who don't speak English well.
Important Disclaimer
This article reflects publicly available information as of July 2025. Medical emergency procedures, insurance coverage, and hospital policies may vary by location and provider. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or a guarantee of coverage. In case of a medical emergency, always call 911 or seek immediate medical attention.
All information in this article is based on general knowledge of US emergency medical services. Always verify your health insurance coverage and emergency procedures directly with your provider before an emergency occurs. We cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.