What to do if a family member is hospitalized abroad in Sharm El Sheikh (insurance, medical documents, accommodation after discharge)?

If your travel insurance expires before the patient is discharged, you'll need to arrange your own accommodation — plan for renting an apartment for about 7-10 days after discharge.

Set up communication with the attending doctor and head of department using Google Translate — this is critical for understanding the diagnosis and treatment plan.

If the medical staff's attitude toward the patient is good, it's customary to give doctors and the department head an additional tip/gratuity.

At discharge, insist on getting a medical discharge summary in English and Arabic, plus rehabilitation and treatment recommendations — these documents are essential for continuing care back home. If possible, ask for a Russian translation too (your insurance company may help with this).

Real case example: a hip fracture in an elderly relative required a family member to fly urgently to Sharm El Sheikh the next day; treatment took place at Sharm Peace Hospital.