Welcome to the Philippines! This vibrant country offers a wealth of opportunities and experiences. If you are visiting for business, it pays to do your due diligence and know a little bit about their healthcare system to ensure you have peace of mind when going out. Their healthcare model might be different than where you’re from, so being prepared is key.
Here in Cloudstaff, we host a lot of foreign clients, many of whom are traveling to the Philippines for the very first time. We take their safety seriously by preparing for the unexpected, including health issues that may arise – ensuring that we can provide basic care where needed, as well as transport support on standby 24/7 for good measure. Why not an ambulance, you ask? Read on below to find out.
Basic health emergency checklist before you travel
1. Documentation
Just like in many countries you visit, make sure your passport, proof of your citizenship, and other necessary admission documents required by immigration upon arrival in the Philippines. It is also good advice to keep these resources in your person at all times.
2. Travel Insurance
Ensure you have travel insurance which covers full medical protection. This will help protect you financially in case of a medical emergency.
3. Maintenance and Prescription Medicines
Make sure to bring more than enough of your maintenance and other prescribed drugs. Extras will prove useful in case of return flight delays.
4. Contacts List
Make a list of all important contacts in the country and find out who you can call in an emergency before you go.
5. Local Customs and Regulations
Brush up on local customs and etiquette to ensure you understand how to interact with local citizens including medical professionals. Also make sure you are aware of government and each local department laws.
Indoor or Outdoor Events: Staying Safe in the Philippines
When attending indoor or outdoor events in Philippine land, it’s essential for business travelers to be aware of potential health risks and the availability of emergency services. Whether it’s a conference, corporate gathering, or outdoor team-building event, ensuring your health and safety should always be a priority.
1. Indoor Event Precautions
Indoor venues can often become crowded, increasing the risk of airborne illnesses or infections. To minimize health risks:
- Ventilation: Ensure the venue has proper ventilation or air purification systems to reduce the concentration of airborne pathogens.
- Sanitation: Confirm that the event organizers follow sanitation protocols, such as frequent cleaning of high-touch surfaces and providing hand sanitizers.
- Personal Protection: Wear masks when in crowded areas and maintain personal hygiene by washing hands regularly.
2. Outdoor Event Considerations
Outdoor events, while providing fresh air, can present other health risks, including exposure to nature, extreme weather, insects, or allergens. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Weather Preparedness: The Philippines is known for its tropical climate, which can range from extreme heat to sudden downpours. Be sure to check weather forecasts and bring appropriate clothing, sunblock, or rain gear.
- Insect Protection: Insect-borne diseases such as dengue are a concern in outdoor areas, particularly during the rainy season. Apply insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants when attending events in areas prone to mosquito activity.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in hot and humid conditions. Ensure the event provides adequate water stations or carry your own water bottle.
3. Emergency Services
For both indoor and outdoor events, be aware of the nearest medical facilities and emergency services:
- On-Site Medical Support: Many large events offer on-site medical assistance or first aid stations. Familiarize yourself with the location of these services as soon as you arrive.
- Emergency Contacts: Always keep the local emergency hotline (911 in the Philippines) and the contact information of your nearest embassy or consulate readily available.
- Hospital Access: Identify the nearest hospital with emergency services, especially if the event is in a remote or unfamiliar location.
Prevention can save lives. By taking these precautions, you can avoid injury and enjoy your business events in the Philippines with greater peace of mind, knowing that health emergencies are manageable with the right preparation.
Coordinating with Your Host
In case there is a health emergency, your host or local business partner company should be ready to help you. Here is what you should make sure they have:
On-Site Medical Facilities:
It is ideal that your host has an in-house clinic, in many cases this is required under Occupational Safety Hazard laws and compliance in the Philippines. They should be able to respond immediately to requests and calls to assist a patient, offer basic medical care such as first aid and minor treatments, and have access to first responders who were subject to proper training, doctors and medical professionals.
Health Care, Safety, and Emergency Contact:
Your host should have a list of contacts for local hospitals, emergency services, doctors, police, local authorities, and immigration authorities for their guests who are foreign nationals, which they can reach out to quickly and request to assist persons or patients during emergencies.
Transport Services:
Your host should have standby vehicles or contact with emergency responders so that they can immediately transfer patients to the nearest hospital in case of an emergency. Let them know in advance if you have a significant medical condition so they can plan accordingly.
Accessing Medical Services
Health Care Facilities:
The Philippines has a variety of healthcare organizations ranging from large, well-equipped hospitals in urban areas to smaller clinics. If traveling outside of major cities, you can expect that the quality of available facilities and access to specialist and lifesaving equipment may be reduced. In this case, access to emergency transportation is critical.
Ambulance Services:
Know that ambulance services here are often managed by private companies and are not available nationwide. Note that the accepted payment is the local currency. Local governments can provide ambulance service, but this is not always reliable, and you will have to wait your turn if the vehicle is in use or otherwise unavailable.
Ensuring a Safe and Smooth Business Trip
By understanding how the Philippines’ healthcare system works and ensuring your host is well-prepared, you can focus on your job objective during your business mission or any other reasons of your visit without worry. With these precautions in place, you’ll have the confidence and peace of mind to make the most out of your business trip.
Cloudstaff is committed to providing a safe and supportive work environment for its visitors and employees. Aside from dedicated clinics and medical personnel in our various sites, as well as a private blood bank that our staff and partners can use in times of need, we have a full-time Transportation Team that has vehicles on standby and who help arrange for private ambulance services if necessary. Contact us to learn more.