Medical Repatriation
Also known as: Repatriation flight, Medical return transport, Sanitary repatriation
Medical repatriation is transporting a patient back to their home country for ongoing treatment or recovery.
Last updated: 2 April 2026
Real-world example
You break your leg badly skiing in Bulgaria. The local hospital stabilises you with surgery, but you need follow-up procedures and physiotherapy that will take months. Your insurer arranges a medical repatriation flight with a medical escort from Sofia to London. The cost is $25,000, covered by your policy's repatriation benefit.
Why travellers need to know
Medical repatriation is distinct from medical evacuation. Evacuation moves you to the nearest adequate hospital; repatriation brings you home. Repatriation flights with medical escorts cost $15,000-200,000 depending on distance and medical needs. Most comprehensive travel insurance includes repatriation cover, but budget policies may cap it or exclude it entirely. Check this benefit specifically before any trip.
Country-specific notes
Most common repatriation origin for UK tourists
Spain is the top origin country for medical repatriations of UK tourists, driven by high visitor volumes and a large retiree population. Repatriation from mainland Spain to the UK is typically $15,000-25,000 by air ambulance.
Frequently asked questions
How Nomedic helps
Your Nomedic record transfers seamlessly between the overseas hospital and your home medical team, so nothing is lost in the handover.
Your health records, anywhere you go
Your overseas treatment history, ready for your home doctor.
Free to start. No credit card required.