Sundsvall

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Emergency Services

Essential details about Sundsvall's emergency hotline numbers and assistance services.

Sections

1. Overview of Emergency Services in Sundsvall

Sundsvall, like the rest of Sweden, has a well-organized and efficient emergency service system. The main emergency services include:

  • Medical Emergencies (Ambulance, Hospitals, and Clinics)
  • Police Services
  • Fire and Rescue Services
  • Social Emergency Services (for urgent social issues, such as domestic violence or child protection)

All emergency services in Sweden can be accessed by dialing 112, the national emergency number. This number is free to call and connects you to the appropriate service.

2. Costs of Emergency Services

Sweden has a publicly funded healthcare and emergency system, but there are some costs involved depending on your residency status and the type of service you require.

a. Medical Emergencies

  • Ambulance Services:

    • Ambulance transport is not free, even in emergencies. The cost is typically 400โ€“1,000 SEK (Swedish Krona), depending on the region and circumstances. However, this fee is heavily subsidized for residents.
    • If you have Swedish health insurance or are an EU/EEA citizen with a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), the cost is reduced or covered.
    • For non-EU/EEA visitors, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover these costs.

  • Emergency Room Visits:

    • A visit to the emergency room (ER) at a hospital in Sundsvall costs around 400โ€“500 SEK for residents.
    • For non-residents, the cost can be significantly higher, ranging from 2,000โ€“3,000 SEK or more, depending on the treatment required. Again, travel insurance is crucial.

  • Hospitalization:

    • If you are admitted to the hospital, the daily cost for residents is around 100 SEK. For non-residents, the cost will depend on the treatment and length of stay, and it can be expensive without insurance.

b. Police Services

  • Police assistance is free of charge. However, if you require legal representation or other services (e.g., replacing stolen documents), there may be associated costs.

c. Fire and Rescue Services

  • Fire and rescue services are free for emergencies. However, if you are found responsible for causing a fire or false alarm, you may be charged a fee.

d. Social Emergency Services

  • Social emergency services, such as help for victims of domestic violence or child protection, are free of charge. These services are funded by the government and local municipalities.

3. Procedures for Accessing Emergency Services

a. Dialing 112

  • Dial 112 for any life-threatening emergency, including medical, police, or fire-related incidents.
  • The operator will ask for your location, the nature of the emergency, and other relevant details. English-speaking operators are available.

b. Non-Emergency Medical Assistance

  • For non-urgent medical issues, you can call 1177, the Swedish Healthcare Guide. This is a free service where you can speak to a nurse for advice or be directed to the nearest healthcare facility.
  • You can also visit a Vรฅrdcentral (local health clinic) for minor injuries or illnesses. The cost is around 200โ€“300 SEK for residents.

c. Reporting Non-Urgent Crimes

  • For non-urgent police matters, call 114 14. This number is used for reporting crimes that do not require immediate assistance, such as theft or vandalism.

d. Social Emergency Services

  • Sundsvall Municipality provides a 24/7 social emergency service. You can contact them through 112 or directly via the municipalityโ€™s emergency hotline for social issues.

4. Local Considerations and Tips

a. Insurance

  • Residents: If you are a resident of Sweden, ensure you are registered with the Swedish Tax Agency (Skatteverket) and have a personal identity number (personnummer). This ensures you are covered under the public healthcare system.
  • Visitors: Always carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, ambulance transport, and hospitalization. EU/EEA citizens should carry their EHIC card.

b. Language

  • Most emergency service operators and healthcare professionals in Sundsvall speak English. However, learning a few basic Swedish phrases can be helpful in stressful situations.

c. Pharmacies

  • Pharmacies (Apotek) in Sundsvall can provide over-the-counter medications and advice for minor health issues. For after-hours emergencies, there is usually one pharmacy open 24/7 in the area. Check the Apoteket website or call 1177 for details.

d. Emergency Preparedness

  • Save important numbers (112, 1177, 114 14) in your phone.
  • Know your address and nearby landmarks to provide accurate information in case of an emergency.
  • Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital or Vรฅrdcentral in Sundsvall.

e. Financial Assistance

  • If you are unable to pay for emergency services, contact the hospital or service provider to discuss payment plans or financial aid options. Sundsvall Municipality may also offer support for those in financial distress.

5. Key Contacts in Sundsvall

  • Emergency Number (All Services): 112
  • Non-Urgent Medical Advice: 1177
  • Non-Urgent Police Assistance: 114 14
  • Sundsvall Hospital (Sundsvalls Sjukhus):
    • Address: Lasarettsvรคgen 21, 851 86 Sundsvall
    • Phone: +46 60 18 10 00
  • Sundsvall Municipality Social Services:
    • Phone: +46 60 19 10 00 (during office hours)
    • Emergency Social Services (after hours): Contact via 112

6. Summary

Emergency services in Sundsvall are reliable and accessible, but understanding the costs and procedures is essential, especially for non-residents. Always carry insurance, know the key emergency numbers, and familiarize yourself with local healthcare facilities. By being prepared, you can navigate emergencies in Sundsvall with confidence.

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