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

Vaccinations are not required for entry into Indonesia, but the following are highly recommended 4 to 6 weeks prior to arrival:
  • Hepatitis A & B
  • Typhoid
  • Yellow fever (especially if you are traveling from a yellow fever-infected area)
  • Routine immunizations: tetanus-diphtheria, measles-mumps-rubella, polio and varicella

The normal childhood vaccinations of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTP) and polio should be up to date. It is also wise to check vaccination requirements with the consular office. And, you should also consult your home country's vaccination regulations for re-entry on home leave or repatriation.
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Before I get sick, what should I know about seeking medical care in your city as an expat?

The level of sanitation and health care in Indonesia is below other countries' standards. Routine medical care is available in all major cities, but most expatriates choose to leave the country if they incur any serious medical problems. Or, for regular check-ups, they wait until they go back to their home country and see their regular doctor. If hospitalization is required, they are usually transported to Singapore or Australia, the closest locations with acceptable medical care. Additionally, doctors and hospitals require immediate cash payment for health services, so if you have your own health insurance, it is recommended that you bring all your information with you when visiting the doctor or hospital.

For more information, check with your company’s human resources department or contact Crown Balikpapan.
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What is the word for "doctor" in the local language?

The word doctor is pronounced the same but is spelled "Dokter."
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What is the best way to locate a suitable health care provider?

Most insurance companies can provide a list of doctors and specialists in each area. Another alternative that is often helpful is asking a friend, co-worker or neighbor for their recommendations.
Also, a list of doctors and their specialties should be listed in the local telephone book.
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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?

As explained above, public hospitals are not recommended. Many expatriates prefer to seek medical attention outside the country, particularly in nearby Singapore or Australia or they wait until they return to their home country and see their regular doctor.
For serious illness, contact your company doctor or your embassy consular office immediately.
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What is the number to call to summon help in an emergency? List medical/fire/police.

The common phone numbers used for emergencies are listed below:
  • Police: 110
  • Ambulance: 118
  • Fire: 113

Medical care in the city:
Hospitals: Pertamina Balikpapan Hospital, Balikpapan Husada, Restu Ibu Hospital

Dentistry: Balikpapan Dental Health Care (BDHC)

Clinics and Lab: Prodia, Panacea

Skincare: Miracle Aesthetic, Nathasa Skincare, Majesty Spa & Massage

Important numbers:
Police # 0542.560400
Fire Brigade # 0542. 421113
Ambulance # 118
Search and Rescue office # 0542.762111
Tourism information # 0542.761111
Sepinggan Airport # 0542.766886
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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?

If an emergency occurs in the middle of the night, either call one of the numbers above and wait for an ambulance or have a family member or friend drive you to the closest major hospital in your area.
Major hospitals have 24-hour emergency clinics as do some suburb hospitals. Identifying the closest 24-hour emergency clinic from where you live is an important first task once you have had a chance to settle in.
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How will I recognize a pharmacy? What is it called in the local language?

Pharmacies should not be hard to find around the city. Look for the word “Apotek."
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Is the tap water safe to drink?

No. Do not drink the tap water anywhere in Indonesia, no matter what anybody says, unless it has been boiled, filtered or chemically disinfected. All good hotels provide boiled or bottled water. Also, do not drink unbottled beverages or drinks served with ice. It is also recommended to stay away from fruits or vegetables unless they have been peeled and cooked. If you plan to drink milk, boil it.

If you plan on residing in Indonesia for a long period of time, “aqua” water coolers can be rented cheaply for use in the home.
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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. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown representative.