What should I do in a medical emergency in El Salvador?

In a medical emergency in El Salvador, call 132 (Red Cross ambulance) or 911 (national emergency). In San Salvador, the fastest option is often an Uber or taxi to the nearest private hospital ??? Hospital de Diagnostico (24/7 ER) or Hospital Centro Medico are top choices. Private ambulance services like ABES (2121-9999) offer faster response times than public ambulances. On the coast, basic first aid is available at local clinics, but serious emergencies require transport to San Salvador (Hospital de Diagnostico is typically 45-90 minutes from beach areas). Many surf resorts keep basic first-aid supplies and can help arrange transport. Important steps: keep your insurance information accessible, know your blood type, carry a list of any allergies or medications, and have emergency contacts saved in both your phone and on a card in your wallet. If you have a pre-existing condition, identify the nearest hospital before you need it. Medical evacuation insurance is worth considering for remote coastal stays.