What would you do if you became sick on board a cruise ship off the coast of Japan? Would you disembark at the next port? Come straight home? Or stay on board and rely on the ship’s medical staff?

Dr and Mrs Sheridan were enjoying a relaxing cruising holiday on board a cruise, when Mrs Sheridan suddenly fell ill. 

After conducting a medical examination, the ship’s Medical Officer became concerned about her serious condition, and subsequently called Mondial Assistance to advise our Medical Assistance team of Mrs Sheridan’s illness.

After a discussion with the ship’s Medical Officer, it was decided that Mrs Sheridan should be admitted to hospital at the next cruise line stop, which was Osaka, Japan. This was a precautionary measure, just in case her condition worsened. 

Once Mrs Sheridan was admitted to hospital, our Medical Assistance Team remained in constant contact with the Osaka treating medical nurse to monitor her condition. We also provided support to ensure that Dr Sheridan was comfortable and happy with his wife’s treatment and progress.

Due to the language barrier, an interpreter was also provided to assist with translation during Mrs Sheridan’s treatment ensuring the communication process was much easier for all involved.

Once Mrs Sheridan was well enough to travel again, our Registered Nurse/Medical Assistance Case Manager, Fiona Slassor, rearranged their airline tickets to return home and ensured a safe journey back to Australia.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and your staff for the caring and very efficient service provided to my wife, Iris, during the recent illness she suffered on board ship, which was treated in hospital at Osaka, Japan.

One hears many stories about illness suffered overseas and the treatment received from some insurance companies. Our treatment from Mondial Assistance and your staff have always been courteous, prompt and helpful. My wife and I will be forever thankful to your organisation.

I have no hesitation in recommending Mondial Assistance  to our friends and colleagues.”

Dr K.P. Sheridan AO

ABOVE LEFT: One of our Medical Assistance team members, Registered Nurse/Medical Assistance Case Manager, Fiona Slassor, who helped a traveller who fell ill on board a cruise ship off the coast of Japan.

You’re in good hands with Mondial Assistance.

Our ability to provide Overseas Emergency Medical Assistance through our Group presence around the world, means we can offer a highly professional level of service to the people we’re assisting. In this case, our Medical Assistance team was able to deliver above and beyond the customer’s expectations in a professional and caring manner, during a stressful situation.

In Australia during 2006, we handled over 60,000 Travel Insurance claims and more than 37,000 Medical Assistance cases. Yet, in every case, we strive to provide a superior level of personal service, which sets Mondial Assistance apart.

Our Medical Assistance is the key to your safety, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year -- we’re here to help our customers.

Mondial Assistance Australia is a leading provider of Assistance and Travel Insurance. Around the clock, around the world, we're always ready to help you - whatever it takes.