What are emergency services like in Sri Lanka?

When we asked members about emergency services in Sri Lanka, they wrote...

"The closest ER is 15 minutes from our house. There is a number to call a local ambulance but don't know the response time. Probably would just load up in a tuk-tuk if possible and run for the ER. The best private hospital in Negombo is Nawaloka Hospital. The Government Hospital is very close to it as well. The quality of care is good once you are admitted. The hospital equipment is up to date and clean. The hospital it self is kept clean. They are very kind but you feel kind of lost. Too much staff doing little to nothing. You can call an ambulance by phone. However, the street names here are very confusing even to locals so be prepared to know landmarks for them to find you and if you have neighbors or a local that can tell them your location ... so much the better," said another expat in Negombo, Sri Lanka.

"Emergency services in Sri Lanka are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial the national emergency number, which is 119. The ambulance service is free of charge and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The ambulance service is provided by the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society and is staffed by trained personnel. The ambulance will be dispatched to the location of the emergency and will provide medical assistance as needed," wrote a member who made the move to Sri Lanka.

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