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Nothing is more frightening for a cruise passenger than becoming so ill that they must be evacuated to the nearest hospital. Often, these hospitals are sub-par and can’t handle the case, requiring additional cstly transport. With good emergency evacuation insurance, a passenger can be taken to a hospital in a larger city that is more well-staffed and equipped to handle such emergencies.
It’s imperative to check with one’s travel insurance to familiarize yourself with the process in case of such an event.
That’s why being in reasonably good health when embarking on a cruise is so important. Still, as seniors and sometimes younger passengers, medical emergencies arise out of the blue, requiring immediate care. Passengers must acknowledge that medical care on ships is marginal at best.
Medical professionals, such as doctors and nurses, may be on board. Still, they are not equipped to perform surgery to treat many medical emergencies such as heart attacks and strokes. In most cases, they can treat flu, colds, and shipborne illnesses, but if a patient develops serious complications, they must be evacuated.
Some ships have helipads, but others do not. Weather conditions play a massive role in determining whether a helicopter can load on a helipad. Emergency personnel are cautious in protecting and handling ill passengers to the best of their ability and based on available equipment.
All of this is better handled when the passenger has emergency evacuation insurance. If not, attempting to secure funds from various sources the passengers may have available becomes a nightmare. The cost can be prohibitive.
From Cruise Industry News at this link, today’s story;
“Medical Emergency Causes Three-Day Delay for Royal Caribbean Ship
November 11, 2024
A medical emergency onboard the Explorer of the Seas is causing a three-day delay in the ship’s arrival at PortMiami.
Currently offering a 12-night trans-Atlantic crossing, the ship was initially scheduled to arrive in Florida on Nov. 14, 2024.
According to a statement sent to guests onboard, the Explorer of the Seas will now dock in Miami on November 17, 2024.
“Our medical staff determined that one of our guests needed urgent medical attention, and as a result, we are making our way to Las Palmas, Gran Canaria,” the company said.
After visiting the Azores on Nov. 7, the ship was scheduled to remain at sea before arriving in Miami next week.
Following the medical emergency, the Explorer changed course, docking at the Spanish port on Saturday.
As part of its new itinerary, the vessel is now expected to cruise for another week before arriving in the United States on November 17.
“This situation is evolving,” Royal Caribbean added in its statement, noting that additional details for the arrival in Miami are still being finalized.
“We’re sorry for any inconvenience caused, and we appreciate your patience and understanding. We know we’d do the same for you or a loved one with a medical emergency,” the company said.
Royal Caribbean offers guests onboard a complimentary voucher for a 60-minute internet package and phone assistance in making necessary arrangements.
“We know you may need to communicate with family, friends, or airlines/hotels to start planning your return home,” the company added.
Passengers who booked flights via Royal Caribbean’s Air2Sea Team will have their return flights automatically adjusted to reflect the new arrival in Miami.
Guests with independent travel arrangements are asked to contact their air carrier directly. The company said it will cover any air change fees of up to $200 for domestic travel and $400 for international travel, per person.
Royal Caribbean also offers guests discounted rates for those who extend beverage and internet packages for the additional three days of the cruise.”
We can only imagine the fear a passenger and family member (s) would feel being airlifted to the nearest medical facility. Understanding the process in advance can significantly reduce anxiety and apprehension.
Be prepared. Be well.
Photo from ten years ago today, November 11, 2014:
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