Traveling with a medical condition can be daunting, but with the right preparation it needn’t be a headache. Whether you are going on vacation, relocating to a new home or visiting relatives in another state, make sure you are completely prepared for your journey. Here are a few pointers to help you travel hassle-free.
Book a Medical Flight
Once you have consulted your doctor and received the all clear, secure a flight with professionals who know what they are doing. Booking a medical flight with a non-emergency medical transport provider takes away all the stress associated with travel. A flight can be scheduled with an experienced flight coordinator and you will be accompanied by a registered nurse, with critical care and emergency experience, throughout your journey. From the get-go, the flight coordinator will plan your medical travel and they will assist with matters to do with airports, airlines, ground transportation and hotels, if necessary.
Travel With a Flight Nurse
With a medical flight, you will receive all of the support you need from start to finish. In addition, the flight nurse you are assigned to will assist with advanced boarding, so that you do not have to wait around in a queue, and you will be designated a suitable seat on the plane. They will also arrange for you to have all the necessary supplies and medication you need for the flight. Flight nurses are specially trained in aviation physiology, or high-altitude healthcare. They can help you deal with any discomfort you may have during your flight.
Prepare any Medication You May Need
Before a flight, make sure all of your medication is accounted for, and check for any travel restrictions the destination you are going to may have. It is best to keep your medication on your person, if possible, rather than checking it in with your luggage. Traveling can be unpredictable. Traveling with your medication means that you will not be caught out due to cancellations or delays. Furthermore, you can prevent the risk of losing your medication due to your checked baggage getting lost in transit. If in doubt, it is better to pack more medication than be left in a situation where you do not have enough. In addition, make sure you travel with a copy of your prescription. In the worst-case scenario, you can use it to replenish any medication that goes missing.
Do Your Research
If you are going on vacation to a destination you have never visited before, do your research on the medical care available in the area. Healthcare in foreign countries can be vastly different or even provide improper medical treatment. By researching the medical systems in place, you can prepare yourself for all eventualities. As part of your research, take the time to pinpoint the different hospitals and clinics within close proximity to your destination. Also, read up on how you will be treated and what processes you will need to go through should you require medical assistance.
Create a Backup Plan
For the best travel experience possible, plan ahead and create a backup plan for all circumstances. In addition to a copy of your medication prescription, travel with your medical paperwork to ensure you receive the correct care if you find yourself needing assistance.