From anywhere in the world, and 24 hours a day, travellers have access to expert medical advice from SOS. In the vast majority of hospitalisations, a medical officer in charge of the distribution of patients among hospitals or external liaison doctor is assigned, who contacts the doctor currently treating the patient at the earliest opportunity and remains in regular contact until the patient is discharged or repatriated.
SOS’ pool of doctors cover three primary work areas: contact/visitation, in-house medical advice and medical escort of patients in transit.
Their task is to ensure that patients are given the best possible treatment at approved medical facilities, as well as to ensure that the treatment time is kept to a reasonably low level. Other key tasks include ensuring that the illness is covered by the relevant insurance policy and, if deemed necessary, organising medically and financially viable repatriation. SOS has four such medical officers available on a daily basis, and our pool of external coordination physicians comprises 69 doctors.
They assess incoming claims for SOS’ claims department and participate in Cost Control to ensure that foreign treatment centres do not overcharge. In addition, medical consultants assist with preliminary medical assessments of patients with chronic conditions in order to clarify questions relating to cover prior to departure.
They ensure patients are expertly monitored during homeward repatriation and that they receive any treatment they require. In addition, they ensure transportation is carried out in a responsible manner, that the necessary medical equipment is available, and that the patient arrives at the correct medical facility. Our medical escort team comprises 200 doctors and 100 nurses.
SOS also has more than 20 emergency staff available who are able to ensure the relevant support is given to individuals who have been through a traumatic experience. Support can be provided by telephone or by a member of the emergency staff travelling to visit the casualty in person.