It is a good thing to have new experiences, see new places and have adventures but…
Be Prepared for the Unexpected
- sudden illnesses can arise
- chronic illnesses can worsen
- undiagnosed problems can become symptomatic
Where you are going?
- what is the health care system like
- are there new environmental conditions— e.g altitude, allergens
- can you ask for help in an emergency
- how would you get home if needed
- do you need vaccines?
How long will you be gone?
- do you need a new prescription
- extra medication
What are you planning to do? If you’re planning long or strenuous trip activities, consider
- a checkup from your doctor
- copies of recent tests in case there is a problem
- special precautions for your medical conditions– for example small injuries or infections in someone with diabetes
Do you have chronic/rare health conditions or allergies?
- Make a document packet and an emergency bag, with labels
- Medical history
- Medication list
- Recent test results if relevant
- Extra medication
- List of emergency contacts (including your doctor)
- Talk to travel partners about chronic medical conditions, medications or allergies.
- Think about an exit plan—how will you get home in case of emergency.
