Doctors & Clinics in Kyrgyzstan
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This mountainous country includes popular travel destinations such as Köl-Suu Lake, the State Museum of Fine Arts, Jayma Bazaar, Burana Tower, and Tash Rabat Caravanserai.
The standards for patient care and medical services in Kyrgyzstan may differ from your home country. Kyrgyzstan has both public and private health sectors, but healthcare is limited and typically does not meet international standards. The country has a shortage of healthcare professionals, particularly in rural areas.
In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals in Kyrgyzstan typically require upfront payment in cash, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Due to limited healthcare services, medical evacuation to Western Europe or Thailand is common for serious health emergencies. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance, including evacuation. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Kyrgyzstan.
Pharmacies are widely accessible in major cities. Many medications can be purchased without a prescription. However, it is not advisable to take a new medication without consulting a physician. Avoid buying medications from markets or unlicensed pharmacies, as fake medication is a common concern.
If you are travelling with medication, check with Kyrgyzstan’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. If your medication is a psychotropic or narcotic, you can review Kyrgyzstan’s regulations on the International Narcotics Control Board. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.
Roads in Kyrgyzstan are poorly maintained. Mountainous roads are often narrow and without guardrails. Traffic is chaotic and road rules are rarely followed. As such, traffic accidents are common. Buses are available but they tend to be very crowded and vehicles are not maintained to safety standards. All occupants of a vehicle are required to wear a seat belt at all times. Motorcycle drivers and passengers must wear a helmet.