In February 2025, 58-year-old British tourist Collette Robinson faced a dire situation while vacationing in Marrakesh, Morocco. During her stay at the Valeria Madina Club Resort, she suffered a heart attack while relaxing by the pool. She was promptly taken to Clinique Averroès hospital, where she underwent surgery to have a stent fitted. However, due to an oversight in updating her travel insurance to include a previous heart attack from September 2024, Robinson was left with a medical bill amounting to £22,000 (approximately $28,000). The hospital has threatened her with arrest if the bill remains unpaid.
Robinson’s son, Jack Gilder, has been actively seeking solutions to settle the debt. He attempted to negotiate a payment plan with the hospital, but officials insisted on receiving the full amount upfront. Gilder expressed his distress over the situation, noting that his mother faces potential arrest if the payment isn’t made. He also mentioned the emotional toll this ordeal has taken on their family, stating, “I have been in tears this whole time; normally you can fix things, but I can’t fix this one.”
To raise the necessary funds, Gilder has initiated a GoFundMe campaign, appealing to the public for assistance. The campaign aims to cover the medical expenses and facilitate Robinson’s return to her home in Manchester. This incident underscores the critical importance of ensuring travel insurance policies are up-to-date and accurately reflect any pre-existing medical conditions. Without appropriate coverage, travelers may find themselves liable for substantial medical expenses in foreign countries, where healthcare systems and regulations can differ significantly from those in their home country.
Robinson’s predicament serves as a cautionary tale for travelers worldwide. Medical emergencies can occur unexpectedly, and being unprepared can lead to severe financial and legal consequences. Travelers are advised to:
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Review and Update Insurance Policies: Ensure that all pre-existing health conditions are declared and covered in your travel insurance.
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Understand Local Healthcare Practices: Familiarize yourself with the medical facilities and their payment requirements in your destination country.
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Have an Emergency Plan: Establish a plan for accessing funds or assistance in case of unexpected medical expenses abroad.
As of now, Robinson remains in the Moroccan hospital, awaiting a resolution that will allow her to return home safely. The situation highlights the broader issue of medical tourism and the potential pitfalls travelers face when adequate preparations are not made.
