Moped Accident in Thailand -
‘Koh Samui Tattoo’

Known as the ‘Koh Samui Tattoo’ this accident is caused when someone accidentally rests their calf on the exhaust pipe of a moped. It’s not uncommon for this to happen as people often use mopeds to get around and see the sights of Thailand while on holiday or travelling, but they aren’t familiar with this type of transport. This accident can become extremely costly if the wound is not treated as soon as possible. If treated quickly, costs can range between £500 and £1,000 for medical costs and approximately £5,000 for an upgraded long-haul flight home if it comes to that.

However, due to the humidity in Thailand it’s not uncommon for the wound to become infected. If the wound is left untreated or becomes infected, costs can dramatically increase anywhere from around £3,000 to £15,000 for medical costs based on a likely hospital admission for antibiotic treatment, skin debridement or even possible amputation) and around £30,000 for a medically escorted repatriation back to the UK.

Potential cost: Up to £45,000

Heart Attack in
the USA

High fat diets are one of the leading causes behind heart attacks and overindulging on your trip to the States could prove costly to your bank balance as well as your health. Depending on your destination, medical costs associated with suffering a heart attack while in the USA can range from anywhere between £50,000 and £200,000.

If you suffer with a heart attack, overseas air travel by a standard airline is not usually permitted for three weeks, and the patient must also be ‘chest pain free’ for the duration of that period. However, if the patient is stable for one-week following a heart attack, airlines may allow repatriation on the condition that the patient is accompanied by a medical professional, so should any chest pain occur in the air, the doctor can administer medication without diverting the plane.

Flights, medical escort hours, accommodation and a transfer costs can come in the region of £30,000.

Potential cost: Up to £230,000

Gastroenteritis in
Mexico

Trying out new cuisines or restaurants without a verified hygiene rating while abroad could land you with a bout of food poisoning. While these are usually self-limiting illnesses, they may require a day admission to a medical facility. The cost of this can range between £1,000 and £2,000 in Mexico. Facilities may also demand money or a letter of guarantee from insurance upfront before administering treatment. Once resolved, no special repatriation is required.

Potential cost: Up to £2,000