In Russia, these are not up to Western standards, and are short on supplies. Their medical doctors are not as knowledgeable as Western doctors or as well trained. If you’re in need of a doctor you are in trouble.

In Moscow there are three Hospitals that have assistance for foreigners. They are the American Medical Center (Tel: 095-251-9799) and the International Medical Clinic and the European Medical Center. They have medical supplies, good doctors and are up to Western standards, and yes they take Visa/Credit Cards. Saint Petersburg will also be able to accommodate you, but the rest of Russia, best of luck. They have a little joke in Russia about Russian doctors, they diagnose all ailments as the common cold (flu). From personal experience a friend’s son became very ill in Southern Russia, he was under two years of age and was dehydrating. He was taken to a children’s clinic and was told, “Sorry, we can't help you. Your not Russian. Call an ambulance.” They did and one hour later no ambulance yet. They were told "oh, it usually takes at least one hour or more". So we gave up, one of my friend’s relatives heard of our plight who then contacted a doctor he knew, who did agree to see their son. Luckily for them he admitted him to a good children's clinic and he was put on intravenous and glucose etc. The fact they knew someone is the only reason they got the help needed. The nurses were terrible and their attitudes were worse.

You can purchase medicine in Russia on just about every street corner, Metro Station, etc., etc., but again some are not controlled by the Government and most of these medicines are outdated or simply will make you more sick than you already are. Medicines that are no longer in use in the Western world are sent to Russia. Only at Hospital outlets is it likely the drugs will be okay. It is best to take medicine with you from home when traveling in Russia. Come prepared! Medical insurance may be of not much use at the time you need it. But then they wanted Russian medical insurance from the region we were in. Which of course we cannot get. So you may have to pay, and collect from your Medical insurance provider later, be sure to find out what you are expected to do if becoming ill in Russia prior to your departure with your insurance provider.