Consumer Reports published a good article about some of the issues cruise passengers will encounter (like norovirus) and has some advice for the traveling public. According to Consumer Reports medical adviser, Dr. Orly Avitzur:
- A cruise ship is more like a “floating hotel with a doctor at hand”, than a floating hospital.
- Think twice about traveling with a chronic medical condition. The Coast Guard can’t always launch a rescue, if the seas are rough or the ship is too far from land.
- Know that most prescription drugs are not available on a cruise ship. Always travel with an extra supply of all medications.
- Cruise ships don’t accept insurance. Get ready to pay a premium, out of pocket, for any on-board care.
- Buy travel insurance. Avoid policies that are sold by tour operators, travel agents and cruise-lines.
Interested in this issue? We suggest reading: Cruise Ship Bathrooms, Norovirus and Medical Care.
November 11, 2014 Update: Breaking News! Cruise passengers are now permitted to sue the cruise lines for medical negligence. The Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeal ruled that cruise lines are no longer permitted to assert an “immunity defense” when their ship doctors and nurses commit medical malpractice. Read: 11th Circuit Rejects Cruise Lines’ Immunity Defense to Medical Malpractice Claims. Contact us for further information.