Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. In some cases, medical insurance with specific overseas and medical evacuation coverage has proved useful. For additional health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline, tel. Petty crime in the greater Buenos Aires area continues to be a problem for residents and visitors alike.
Pickpockets often work in pairs and employ a variety of ruses to victimize the unsuspecting visitor.
In recent years, most crime affecting visitors was non- violent, and aggravated robberies, shootings, etc., while not completely unheard of in Buenos Aires, were uncommon. Recently, however, incidents of armed invasions of restaurants, shops, and residences in the more fashionable suburbs are being observed with greater frequency, and as a result, it is recommended that caution be exercised when traveling about the city. However, in general, the crime level in Buenos Aires is less severe than in large U.S. cities. The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to the local police and the U.S. Embassy. It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.