Are there any vaccinations I should get or other health precautions to take as I prepare for my move to your city?

No vaccinations are required. However, it is important to bring any medical certificates from your home country. Consider bringing any special medication you may require as it is always advisable to stock up for the transition period.

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Before I get sick, what should I know about seeking medical care in your city as an expat?

Companies usually provide health insurance for expats moving to Belgium. In most cases, the expat’s family is also covered. It is best to check with your employer what and who is included in the provided insurance, to make sure all your needs are covered.

Belgium’s health care network is among the best in the world, covering over 380 hospitals and 30 000 doctors. In Belgium, you have the freedom to choose your own doctor. You may want to consider how important it is for you to have and English-speaking doctor. Usually, you will be able to find one quite easily.

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What is the word for "doctor" in the local language?

  • French: médicin or docteur,
  • Dutch: dokter,
  • German: Arzt.
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What is the best way to locate a suitable health care provider?

It is advisable to speak to friends and colleagues about the different possibilities regarding healthcare. Some useful links for information can be found below:

Health and safety information for Brussels-Capital Region

www.brussels.irisnet.be/living-in-brussels/health-and-safety

24 hour Community Help line and Information Service in English

Telephone number: 02 648 40 14.

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Do expats in the area tend to leave the city/area/country to seek medical care? If so, why and where do they go?

No; considering the high level of health care provided in Belgium, it is not necessary to leave the city or country.

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What is the number to call to summon help in an emergency? List medical/fire/police.

  • Medical: 100 or 112 (EU emergency number),
  • Fire: 100 or 112 (EU emergency number),
  • Police: 101,
  • Anti-poison centre: 070 245 245,
  • Burns centre: 02 268 62 00
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What do I do if there's an emergency in the middle of the night—or at another time when my normal doctor/clinic is unavailable?

  • Doctors: 02 513 02 02 or 02 242 43 44,
  • Pharmacies/chemists: 0900 10 500,
  • Dentists: 02 426 10 26 or 02 42 85 888,
  • Suspected gas leaks: 02 274 40 44,
  • Veterinarian services: 02 479 99 90.
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How will I recognize a pharmacy? What is it called in the local language?

  • French: pharmacie,
  • Dutch: apotheek,
  • German: Apotheke.
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Is the water safe to drink?

Yes.

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Useful Links

Health and safety information for Brussels-Capital Region

www.brussels.irisnet.be/living-in-brussels/health-and-safety

Information on social security in Belgium

www.socialezekerheid.fgov.be/en/index.htm

Brussels Childcare Trust – an organization providing help and support to young families in Belgium

www.bctbelgium.org

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might result. Please contact your closest embassy or consulate for confirmation.