What To Do If You Get Sick In Ao Nang

Ao Nang is famous for its beaches, limestone cliffs, and island-hopping adventures. But if you get sick in Ao Nang, the turquoise waters and palm trees can suddenly feel overwhelming. Don’t worry — you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: from emergency numbers and pharmacies to finding English-speaking doctors, handling travel insurance, and avoiding common illnesses.

Understanding Ao Nang’s Healthcare System

Let’s look at Ao Nang’s healthcare system.

Private vs. Public

• Public hospitals in Ao Nang are affordable, but they can be crowded and English may not always be spoken.
• Private hospitals and clinics are the best choice for travelers. They are faster, more comfortable, and more likely to have English-speaking staff. Expect higher costs, but travel insurance usually reimburses these.

Emergency Medical Care

Let’s break down emergency medical care if you get sick in Ao Nang.

Essential Emergency Numbers

• 1669 – Ambulance and medical emergencies
• 191 – Police
• 199 – Fire

How to Call an Ambulance in Ao Nang

Dial 1669 for emergencies. Operators may have limited English, so if possible, ask your hotel staff or a local to help communicate.

When to Go to a Hospital vs. an Urgent Care Clinic

• Hospital: Go here if you have a serious issue like chest pain, a major accident, or severe illness.
• Urgent care/private clinic: Best for stomach bugs, fevers, minor injuries, or routine medical needs.

Pharmacies & Medication: What You Need to Know

Pharmacies in Ao Nang are called “Ya-sai” in Thai, and you’ll find them near main streets and tourist areas.

• Opening hours: Most pharmacies are open until evening.
• 24/7 options: In popular tourist hubs, at least one pharmacy per district operates overnight. Look for “24-hour” signage.
• Medication rules: Painkillers, stomach remedies, and cold medicine are available over the counter. Stronger medication requires a doctor’s note.

What to Do if You’ve Got Travel Insurance

Private healthcare in Ao Nang can be expensive without insurance. Having coverage makes everything much easier.

Documents You’ll Need to Submit a Claim

• Passport copy
• Insurance policy details
• Medical report/doctor’s note
• Receipts and proof of payment

Tip: Contact your insurance provider before your visit if you can—they may direct you to a clinic that offers direct billing.

Language Barriers

In private clinics, doctors often speak English. In public hospitals, communication may be more difficult. Here are some handy Thai phrases:

• “Chan bpen khai” (ฉันเป็นไข้) – I have a fever.
• “Chan jeb tong” (ฉันเจ็บท้อง) – I have stomach pain.
• “Pom tong gaan pha maw” (ผมต้องการพบหมอ) – I need to see a doctor.

How to Avoid Getting Sick in Ao Nang

Here’s what you need to know to avoid getting sick in Ao Nang.

Common Traveler Illnesses

• Traveler’s diarrhea
• Heat exhaustion
• Mosquito-related illnesses like dengue

Is the Tap Water Safe?

No. Avoid drinking tap water in Ao Nang. Stick to bottled or boiled water—even for brushing teeth.

Food Safety & Hygiene Tips

• Eat at busy restaurants or street stalls with high turnover.
• Avoid undercooked seafood.
• Wash hands regularly or use sanitizer.

Healthcare Tips for Pregnant Travelers & Those with Pre-existing Conditions

Ao Nang’s private clinics and nearby hospitals offer specialists in gynecology, pediatrics, cardiology, and more. If you’re pregnant or managing a condition, keep your medical records with you and consider booking an appointment early if symptoms appear.

Finding an English-Speaking Doctor in Ao Nang

Finding a doctor who speaks English can be stressful when you’re not feeling well.

With Air Doctor, you can:

• Browse English-speaking doctors in Ao Nang
• Book appointments online for clinic, hotel, or telemedicine visits
• Get receipts for insurance reimbursement

Getting Help Beyond Healthcare

Your embassy in Thailand can support you if you face a serious illness. They can:

• Provide lists of recommended clinics
• Help replace lost medication
• Assist with family contact if needed

Recap

If you get sick in Ao Nang:

• Call 1669 for medical emergencies.
• Visit private clinics for fast, English-speaking care.
• Use 24/7 pharmacies for basic needs.
• Avoid tap water and practice food safety.
• Keep travel insurance documents handy.
• Use Air Doctor to find trusted doctors nearby.

About Air Doctor

With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.

Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:

• A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
• Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
• Healthcare access in 90 countries
• 24/7 multi-lingual support
• Transparent pricing and reviews
• Most common medical specialties, including GPs, urgent care clinics, and pediatricians

FAQs