A British holidaymaker's relaxing break in Turkey descended into a financial and medical nightmare after a simple stumble resulted in a complex leg break and a crippling £21,000 hospital bill.
What began as a dream getaway quickly turned into a crisis when the tourist fell, fracturing their leg severely. Rushed to a private hospital in Turkey, they faced immediate surgery and a week-long stay, unaware of the astronomical costs mounting daily.
A Staggering Financial Shock
The real horror emerged upon discharge. The hospital presented an invoice for a jaw-dropping 800,000 Turkish Lira—equivalent to over £21,000. The tourist's existing travel insurance provided only minimal cover, leaving them personally liable for the vast majority of the extortionate bill.
This case highlights a critical warning for all UK travellers: many standard insurance policies have dangerously low limits for private medical care in countries like Turkey, where healthcare for foreigners can be exceptionally expensive.
The Importance of Robust Cover
Experts urge travellers to scrutinise their insurance policies before any trip. Key checks include:
- High medical expense limits: Ensure cover extends to at least £2 million.
- Repatriation coverage: Verify the policy includes emergency medical transport back to the UK.
- Direct payments: Opt for insurers who pay hospitals directly to avoid paying upfront.
- 24/7 emergency assistance: A reliable helpline is crucial for coordinating care in a crisis.
This traveller's ordeal serves as a stark reminder that a cheap holiday can come at an unimaginable cost without the right protective measures in place.
