Healthcare

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In Istanbul , tap water is mostly drinkable , but it is not always safe because local water tanks may not be always maintained properly , thus one should try to avoid tap water if possible as locals themselves prefer bottled water . Also restaurants usually present bottle water . There are mainly no problems associated with food and drinks except that some Turkish foods’ ingredients include a variety of strong and hot spices which may affect tourists who may not be accustomed to similar ingredients . Having this said however , most of Turkish food is edible for any tongue . One important thing however is taking care when buying certain foods , particularly from street vendors , because delicacies specially such as "Firin Sutlac" (which is a kind of rice pudding) can turn bad rapidly on a hot day , this also applies to the oysters that can be found sometimes for sale on the streets .

Istanbul has good medical facilities and excellent doctors , so it is much expected that you will receive the appropriate and reliable help when needed . There are two types of hospitals; state hospitals and private hospitals . Of course state hospitals are cheaper than private ones , however private hospitals offer more luxurious services , are less crowded and generally apply the European standards . Medical service in private hospitals are not as expensive as in Europe or the States , but it is better to have some cash or a credit card ready as hospitals expect you to pay immediately for their services . You can of course claim your money again later from your insurance .

Full-equipped ambulances are also available in the city at anytime to provide medical services to emergency cases . In case of emergency , you can dial 112 to contact the 112 Emergency Aid and Rescue Center and inform them about the emergency case , address , and type of emergency . The medical stuff is immediately informed and they rush to the emergency site with full-equipped ambulance , and the doctor and his accompanied medical stuff will do the required actions for the ill or injured person in a short time .

Pharmacies and Drug Stores:

The Turkish word for pharmacy is (Eczane) . There are many pharmacies and drugstores available in every place in the city . However , you should know that many people in Turkey go very often to a Pharmacy to buy some medicine without a prescription in order to save the money for a diagnosis . Pharmacists are not very much qualified to provide medical services or suggesting medications for common ailments . To stay away from possible side effects that can be caused by a wrong prescription , you should only have diagnosis and treatment by a registered medical doctor .