🆘 Medical Emergency Guide for Tourists in Seattle
Whether you’re visiting the Space Needle or kayaking on Lake Union, it’s important to know what to do in case of a medical emergency. Seattle offers top-tier emergency care and a well-coordinated response system. Here’s your go-to guide:
🚨 Immediate Action: Call 911
- Dial 911 for any life-threatening emergency.
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS) in Seattle are coordinated by King County Medic One, known for rapid response and advanced care.
- Dispatchers may guide you through CPR or other first aid until help arrives.
🏥 Major Emergency Rooms in Seattle
| Hospital | Specialty | Address | Phone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harborview Medical Center | Level I Trauma, Burn, Stroke | 325 9th Ave | (206) 744-3074 |
| UW Medical Center – Northwest | General ER, Surgical Care | 1550 N 115th St | (206) 668-0500 |
| Swedish First Hill ER | General Emergency Care | 747 Broadway | (206) 386-6000 |
These facilities are open 24/7 and equipped to handle trauma, stroke, cardiac events, and more.
💳 Insurance & Costs
- U.S. healthcare is not free for tourists.
- Emergency rooms must treat you regardless of ability to pay, but bills can be high.
- Consider travel health insurance before your trip to cover ER visits, ambulance fees, and hospital stays.
🧭 Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room
- For non-life-threatening issues (e.g., minor injuries, flu), visit an urgent care clinic.
- UW Medicine and Swedish offer urgent care locations open 7 days a week.
📘 Preparedness Tips
- Carry your passport, insurance card, and a list of medications.
- If you have allergies or chronic conditions, wear a medical alert bracelet.
- Most hospitals offer translation services.
- Seattle’s EMS system includes programs for vulnerable populations, including seniors and people with disabilities.
🌍 Language & Accessibility
