Pharmaceuticals
Phuket has many pharmacies, either attached to hospitals or scattered
throughout the community, and these pharmacies stock an impressive
range of medications. By law, all pharmacies should be under the
supervision of a qualified pharmacist, and the importation and manufacturing
of medications is regulated by the Ministry of Health.
For the tourist, getting access to medication is generally not
a problem, unless your prescription drugs are rare. If you are taking
prescription medication, bring an adequate supply with you. If you
lose or misplace your medication, the local pharmacy should be able
to source these for you. Insist on getting medication made by a
reputable manufacturer, preferably the same company that manufactures
your home medication.
Do not accept substitutes from the local pharmacy, even if the
pharmacist tells you it is the same drug. If in doubt, consult a
doctor at one of the major hospitals. Smaller pharmacies, and some
hospitals, will often dispense medication in a small plastic bag,
often with the details of the drug and how to take it written in
Thai. Again, if in doubt, ask to see the original bottle or container,
and have the pharmacist write out the details in English.
Things to consider
- Before your travels, if you do have a health problem, ensure
that you have discussed it with you family doctor at home and
that he is aware that you are traveling overseas.
- Keep a photocopy of your passport in your wallet or purse.
- Write on the photocopy of your passport your health insurance
emergency telephone number and your policy number. Consider including
contact details of your next of kin or some other person to contact
in an emergency.
- Before leaving home, make sure your immunizations are up to
date.
- Keep a list of the name and dosage of your medication.
Immunizations
If you're traveling to Phuket, consult your doctor at least 4-6
weeks before your journey to discuss what vaccinations are suitable
for you. Phuket International Hospital recommends the following
vaccinations (as appropriate for age):
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
- Tetanus-diphtheria booster if needed
- Measles booster if needed
- Polio
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