If you find yourself in an emergency in Belgium, it is important to know how to seek medical help quickly and correctly. A modern ambulance system operating according to uniform standards is available to tourists, immigrants and locals. In this article, we will tell you how to call an ambulance, what numbers to remember and what to do if you do not speak one of the country’s official languages.
Ambulance in Belgium
Belgium has a modern and efficient emergency medical care system that covers all regions of the country. It serves locals, tourists and immigrants alike, providing medical care regardless of insurance policy or citizenship. Knowing the basic rules and contacts can make it much easier and faster to get help in a critical situation.
Features of the ambulance system in Belgium:
- Number 112 is the same for all emergency services. It allows you to call an ambulance, police or firefighters. It works for free even without a SIM card.
- Multilingual support. Operators speak Dutch, French, German and English. Translation from other languages is often possible.
- Both state and private teams work. Emergency assistance is provided by the nearest available vehicle, regardless of ownership.
- Help is provided to everyone. Even without health insurance, a person will receive help, but the bill may be sent later.
- Not every situation is considered an emergency. If your symptoms are mild, the dispatcher may refer you to your GP or the nearest clinic.
- Specialized services. Mobile resuscitation teams, psychiatric services, and homeless assistance services operate in cities.
- The service operates 24/7 throughout the country. The response is as fast as possible, especially in cities and densely populated areas.
- 112 BE application. Free application for quick call for help with geolocation and patient condition data transmission.
- Cost may vary. In emergency cases, transportation is partially covered by insurance, but in planned cases, full payment is possible.
- Calling an ambulance is serious business. There are fines for making a false call or abusing the emergency service.
Emergency care in Belgium is a professionally organized system, accessible to everyone. It is important for tourists and new residents of the country to familiarize themselves with its features in advance, so as not to get confused in an emergency. The right actions can save someone’s life – their own or someone else’s.
Tip: The 112 BE app can also be used by people who are deaf or have speech impairments – it includes text call and pictogram functions.
How to call an ambulance in Belgium
When an emergency occurs, it is important to react quickly and correctly. Belgium has a single number for all emergency services – 112, which is easy to remember and use. There are also convenient digital tools that make it easier to call for help and speed up the response.
Stages of calling an ambulance in Belgium:
- Dial 112
from a mobile or landline phone. The call is free and can be made even without a SIM card. - Wait for the operator to answer.
The operator will ask which service you are calling – medical, police or fire. - Specify the language of communication
French, Dutch, German and English are available. If necessary, you can ask for an interpreter. - Provide the exact address and the nature of the problem
The more accurate the information, the faster help will arrive. Indicate the street, house number, landmarks, floor. - Describe the victim’s condition
. List symptoms if any – fever, pain, loss of consciousness, bleeding, etc. - Follow Instructions
The operator may give instructions before the crew arrives – do not disconnect unless otherwise instructed. - If necessary, download the 112 BE application.
It allows you to call for help in one click, automatically transmits location and medical data. - Check the accessibility of the entrance
Make sure that the entrance is open or someone can meet the team.
The ambulance system in Belgium is simple and effective. The key is to remain calm, communicate clearly, and follow the operator’s instructions. These actions will speed up the arrival of help and can influence the outcome of the situation.
Fun fact: The 112 BE app is available not only in the official languages of Belgium, but also in English – convenient for tourists and new residents.
Features of emergency assistance for tourists and immigrants
Belgium welcomes thousands of tourists and immigrants every year, and for many of them, the emergency system comes as an unexpected challenge. The language barrier, lack of Belgian citizenship or residence documents are no obstacle to receiving assistance. The main thing is to know how to act and what to expect in an emergency.
Features of the emergency care system for tourists and immigrants in Belgium:
- Available to everyone – no exceptions. Emergency care is provided to anyone, regardless of citizenship, visa status or insurance.
- Language support. 112 operators speak several languages, including English. If necessary, an interpreter is called, especially in hospitals.
- No documents required on site. When calling an ambulance, you do not need to show your passport or medical card – the main thing is to tell what happened and where you are.
- After assistance – the bill. If you do not have Belgian insurance, you may receive a bill for medical care. In emergency cases, care is provided before any discussions of payment.
- Pharmacies and medical centres are also available. Belgium has many on-call pharmacies and medical centres where you can go without knowing the local language – many staff speak English.
- Mobile app is a must have. The 112 BE app makes it easier to call emergency services, especially if you don’t speak the language well. You can enter your details and the desired language in advance.
- Immigrants should take out insurance. Even if you are only staying temporarily, you can access the Belgian health care system and reduce your costs.
Belgium’s emergency system is designed to support anyone in need, regardless of their origin or status. It’s important for tourists and immigrants to be informed, have the right apps, and not be afraid to ask for help.
Fun fact: If you are unable to speak when calling 112, the app will send your location and personal information automatically.
Cost of ambulance services in Belgium
Ambulance service in Belgium is not only a quick response, but also a clear payment system. Even in an emergency, it is important to understand what expenses await you and how you can compensate for the costs through your insurance. This is especially important for immigrants and tourists without local insurance.
Table – Cost of ambulance services in Belgium:
| Service | Average cost (EUR) | Comment |
| Call an ambulance (112) | For free | The call itself and the arrival of the ambulance |
| Transportation to the hospital | 60–200 | Depending on distance and region |
| Medical procedures in the car | 25–100 | For example, intravenous infusions, ECG |
| Intensive type transportation | 250–600 | If resuscitation equipment is available |
| Admission to hospital after delivery | Paid separately | Included in the total cost of hospitalization |
| With insurance | Up to 75% covered | Mandatory registration through the Belgian cash desk |
| Without insurance | Full payment | Return possible through international insurance |
Knowing the ambulance rates in Belgium helps to avoid unpleasant surprises. With local insurance, the costs are minimal, and without it, it is better to clarify the terms of return with your insurance company in advance. Even foreigners can reimburse part of the costs if they keep all the documents.
Important: The bill for the ambulance may arrive in the mail several weeks later – it is important not to throw it away by mistake.
What to do if the ambulance does not arrive quickly
Sometimes in an emergency situation, the wait for an ambulance can be prolonged. This may be due to overloaded services or difficult conditions. It is important to know what steps to take before the medics arrive so as not to waste precious time.
What to do if the ambulance does not arrive quickly:
- Stay calm and keep yourself and the victim safe.
- Check breathing and pulse. If necessary, begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
- If there is bleeding, try to stop it by applying a bandage or pressure cloth.
- If the victim is conscious, maintain contact with him to keep him oriented.
- Call 112 again to check the call status.
- Ask passersby or neighbors for help – there may be medical workers or people with medical training nearby.
- Use the 112 BE mobile application, which allows you to send the location and describe the condition of the victim.
- If possible, take the person to the nearest hospital yourself, but only if it is safe and will not worsen the condition.
- Find your nearest pharmacy or first aid post – many pharmacists in Belgium are trained in basic first aid.
- In complex cases, consider going to the nearest emergency room (Urgences, Spoedgevallen), especially for mild but urgent situations.
Even if the ambulance does not arrive immediately, it is important to act – calmness and basic skills can save lives. Clarifying the status of the call and using additional resources can significantly reduce the waiting time. And knowledge of the basics of first aid is always a reliable tool in the hands of any person.
Interesting fact: the 112 BE mobile application is available in several languages and can automatically transmit the coordinates of the rescue service.
Additional emergency services in Belgium
In Belgium, there are several emergency services, in addition to the regular ambulance service. These services can provide different assistance depending on the situation, including home visits or assistance in complex cases. Knowing how to contact each of them can significantly speed up the process of getting help.
Emergency services in Belgium:
- Red Cross (Rode Kruis).
Provides first aid, transportation of victims and participation in various emergency situations. In addition, the organization conducts training courses on first aid. Phone: 105 Website: www.rodekruis.be - Private ambulance services.
These are private companies that provide emergency medical services, including transportation to hospitals. These services may operate under contracts with hospitals or insurance companies. Example: Ambulance Service Belgium
Phone: +32 2 511 47 50 Website: www.ambulanceservice.be - Ambulance from hospitals (Ziekenhuisambulance)
Some hospitals in Belgium provide their own emergency services to transport patients in case of serious illness or injury. They can be called through local hospitals.
Example: UZ Brussel (Outpatient service)
Phone: +32 2 474 51 11 Website: www.uzbrussel.be
There are several types of emergency services in Belgium, each of which can offer specialized assistance. It is important to know which service to contact depending on the situation, in order to ensure that you and others around you receive prompt and effective assistance. It is also worth checking which of these services are covered by insurance companies, in order to minimize additional costs.
Important: The Red Cross in Belgium not only provides assistance, but is also actively involved in educating the population in the basics of first aid and medical rescue.
Advantages and disadvantages of the ambulance system in Belgium
The emergency medical system in Belgium is known for its reliability and high-quality service. However, like any system, it has its strengths and some weaknesses. Understanding these aspects will help both locals and tourists or expats to use emergency medical services correctly.
Advantages and disadvantages of the ambulance system in Belgium:
- Advantages of the ambulance system in Belgium
- Speed of response. Ambulances in Belgium arrive on average 10-15 minutes after the call, which is one of the best indicators in Europe.
- High quality of service. Medical workers undergo strict training, which guarantees a high level of care.
- Availability of services. Ambulance service is available 24 hours a day and throughout the country, making it convenient for residents and tourists.
- International accessibility. Belgium has developed a multilingual help system, which is convenient for foreign citizens and tourists.
- Shortcomings of the ambulance system in Belgium
- System overload: In large cities, it can sometimes be difficult to get help quickly due to the high number of calls, especially during peak hours.
- Cost of services: Although the ambulance system is high quality, the cost of services can be significant, especially for foreign citizens without insurance.
- Language barrier: Despite Belgium being multilingual, in some regions it can be difficult to communicate in another language, which can cause difficulties when calling an ambulance.
- Additional documentation required: Tourists and immigrants may have problems completing paperwork to receive assistance or reimbursement for expenses.
The emergency medical service in Belgium has a number of significant advantages, including the speed and quality of service. However, there are also disadvantages, such as high costs and possible language difficulties. It is important to familiarize yourself with the service in advance so that you can receive assistance without delay if necessary.