Overseas inquiries should be made to the nearest Ghanaian Embassy or Consulate. Medical facilities are limited, particularly outside the capital. Doctors and hospitals often request immediate cash payment for health care services. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid or accepted outside the United States. Travelers have found supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas and medical evacuation coverage to be useful.
Robberies often occur in public places and at beaches.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local police and to the consular section of the U.S. Embassy. Both are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines. Ghana has strict laws on currency exchange and on the import and export of gold, diamonds and other natural resources.