After treatment abroad: planning your return home

Arrange follow-up before you leave

Ask who is responsible for your care at each stage: at the facility, during your stay, on the journey home and after arrival. Get names, contact methods, opening hours, any out-of-hours arrangements and potential charges in writing.

Discuss a realistic follow-up plan with a clinician at home before you travel. Availability and funding may differ; confirm rather than assume.

Ask for your medical documents

Request copies of your procedure and anaesthesia details, discharge summary, medicines, test results, follow-up schedule and any instructions. Ask for them in a language your local clinician can understand and keep a copy accessible.

If you seek care later, explain that you received treatment abroad and share when, where and what procedure took place.

Have a plan for complications

Ask your treating team which symptoms require urgent attention and where you should go if they occur. Do not wait for an online response when you need emergency help: contact local emergency services immediately.

In Türkiye, 112 is the emergency number. After returning home, use your local emergency number and services. You may also need to contact your insurer; understand its requirements in advance.

Allow flexibility

Your treating team should advise when travel is appropriate for your individual circumstances. Major surgery and long journeys can both increase blood-clot risk. Keep plans flexible in case the team recommends a longer stay or further assessment.