European Health care for an American citizen

[transient_queen]

Ok, here's the deal....

Back in Sept 2005, my liver suddenly failed for unknown reasons. I had a liver transplant. I am now doing fine, and I'm still planning on going to Europe for 2 months this summer, assuming my doctors approve (and I don't see why they wouldn't). So, by the time I go, I'll be 9 months out, which should mean I'll only need blood tests once a month. I'm going to try and convince them to let me go 10 weeks without a blood test, but if they won't, how would I get one in Europe? Would I have to pay for it? I know alot of places in Europe have free health care, but is it free for an American citizen? I have health insurance here, but I'm not sure if it would cover a non-emergency blood test overseas. Also, I'm going to be buying my prescriptions in bulk before I leave, but in the event that I run out, how do I go about refilling them? (These are very specific drugs, so I wouldn't feel comfortable buying some sketchy generic version of them). Sorry if the questions seem vague--I know it varies by country, but I was thinking if I needed anything done ovre there I would get it in Britain, so I wouldn't have to worry about learning how to say "I've had a liver transplant" in 5 different languages.

-Kate

[noke_travel]

perhaps someone who lives in the uk can help me out on this but i believe american citizens are not covered on the nhs (free health care system) unless they are in britain on a student or work visa. tourists have no claim to health care in britian. however, normally american health insuance plans will reimburse you for certain medial expenses overseas. you might want to call your health insurance company and check this out. wish i could help you out more but thats all i know.

[xanthuos]

Yeah, the BEST person to answer your questions is actually someone at you health insurance company. Good luck, and let us know how things work out!