A guide to medical treatment, doctors and hospitals in Phnom Penh
Getting sick or hurt is the last thing anybody ever wants to deal with while traveling, but of course it’s always better to be prepared—especially traveling in a foreign country like Cambodia, where the standard of medical treatments is still underdeveloped.
It is said that the facilities and equipment in Cambodia’s hospitals are not yet compliant with international standards, and the same thing can be applied to with the local Khmer doctors—who may not be fully qualified to treat you unless they’ve received their degrees abroad. It isn’t unusual or unheard of doctors to pay their way through certain qualifications.
Many expats in town rather see western doctors to make sure they are getting the best service when it comes to medicine, however, it’s important to note that some local hospitals have good standards, so make sure to pay them fairly. In the worst case scenario, a trip to Bangkok or Singapore would have to be considered, and while it is more expensive, your health is more important.
Getting Sick – Going to the Doctor in Cambodia
For any medical emergency visit the English doctor in Siem Reap at the British Khmer Clinic www.britishkhmerclinic.com or with Dr. Gavin Scott in Phnom Penh; website www.travellersmedicalclinic.com
Medical and Hospital and Treatment in Phnom Penh
Most of the locals will practice self prescription, and that is why there are a lot of pharmacies available nearby. It is also common to see many items on sale that are currently banned in Europe.
Even if you don’t think what you are feeling or experiencing is a big deal, we always recommend seeing a doctor. We also recommend going to the doctor and getting tests before going to any pharmacy.
Also, it’s important to note that most of Cambodia’s hospitals don’t always accept patients who rely on just health insurance, and almost always requires a cash payment—so make sure to have a credit card on hand, just in case you need to withdraw money.
We’ve narrowed down the Top 10 Medical Centers in Phnom Penh, to arm you with the right information, should the unlikely happen, and you need urgent medical treatment.
Recommended Medical Centers in Phnom Penh
1. Travelers’ Medical Clinic
Please look for Dr. Gavin Scott, a British doctor who specializes in tropical and sexual diseases. Consultation cost: $50, not including lab fees.
88, St. 108, Phnom Penh
2. Naga Clinic for Gynecology
For gynecological concerns please look for Dr. Galina. She is said to be the number one choice in town. An appointment with her costs $30.
11 Street 254 PO Box 1155, Phnom Penh
3. Institut Pasteur du Cambodge
Pasteur Institute is believed to be the best choice in town for reliable lab tests and results.
5, Blvd Monivong, Phnom Penh
4. Roomchang Dental Clinic
They have the latest technology when it comes to dental care. Consultation is free, tooth cleaning is $20 and fillings start from $25. This is the best dental clinic in town and if you need emergency dental care simply head here.
4, St. 184, Khan Daun Penh, Phnom Penh
5. Phnom Penh Hospital
In case of medical emergency, this Thai-owned hospital has Western accredited doctors and staff trained abroad.
Add: 888, Russian Confederation Blvd, Toeuk Thla, Phnom Penh
6. Khema Clinic And Maternity
For pregnant mothers this clinic offers a full range of services like prenatal care, vaccinations and delivery,however, we do not recommend anyone giving birth in Phnom Penh.
18, Street528, Toul Kork, Phnom Penh
7. Embassy Medical Center
This center is where Cambodia’s middle class families seek medical assistance. They offer services for women’s health, ENT (ear, nose and throat) and pediatrics.
18 , Street 528, Toul Kork, Phnom Penh
8. Naga Clinic For Eye Care
Dr. Do Seidha is said to be the best ophthalmologist in the country. He was trained in Russia and Australia.You can see him for a private appointment everyday after 5 p.m. for $10+.
11 Street 254 PO Box 1155, Phnom Penh
9. Women’s Baby Center
Run by Dr. Anna Roslyakova, an obstetrician and gynaecologist from Kazakhastani, this center offers a full range of OB/Gyn care, including childbirth classes and pregnancy.
23, Str. 112, Sangkat Phsar Depo 3, Khan Tuol Kok, Phnom Penh
10. Sen Sok International University Hospital
Their official website says “The best international standard hospital in Cambodia.” Their most – noted doctor is Ivan Metala from Russia for general medicine. He is usually the number one choice because of his training certifications from Germany, Poland and France— he is also a nice chap.
1986, Phnom Penh
Phnom Penh Pharmacies
Phnom Penh Pharmacy, Guardian Pharmacy and U-Care are the most legitimate pharmacies in the city. Make sure you go to a quality pharmacy, because there are a lot of shops in town that sell grey market products that can often be out of date, or copies of the drugs you have been prescribed.
Ambulances
At the time of writing, reports show that ambulance services aren’t always prompt— and public emergency contact numbers are often unreachable. Again, we cannot reiterate this any further, but please take care of yourself and make sure you are as prepared as best you can be. If you need an ambulance ask the locals at your hostel to call you one, and if you need urgent care simply jump into a taxi or a tuk tuk.
The Importance of Proper Travel Insurance
Never leave without getting travel insurance. You never know what is going to happen. A good place for backpackers to check out is www.Worldnomads.com.
There is also Alliance Travel Insurance and from experience seem to be more responsive to claims. The insurance is a little more expensive, but it’s worth it.
Request a quote by visiting their website at https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com
Either way, make sure that your travel insurance covers:
Emergency evacuation by air; understand exactly what is required here, it should cover everything required to get you out of Cambodia and into emergency treatment in Singapore or Thailand. The cost of a medical transfer by air can be upwards of $15,000 just for the transport, so PLEASE make sure you are covered.
If you intend to drive a motorbike look very closely at the details of the policy, and make sure your travel insurance covers you if you intend to drive a bike, and not just be a passenger.
You should also have medical and personal coverage on lost and stolen goods; and check limits, if you are carrying around expensive gadgets.
Medical Insurance for Living in Phnom Penh
If you decide to live in Phnom Penh or anywhere else in Cambodia make sure to purchase relevant health insurance that will cover you in all areas, including emergency repatriation. Both Forte insurance and Infinity insurance have offices in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap.
