As an experienced traveler, I know that medical emergencies happen - not an if, but a when. When we think about this topic, the image we see in our head is often one that includes medivac helicopters rescuing a stranded hiker with a broken leg or sitting in a remote hospital after contracting some exotic disease. The reality however, is often much less extreme but no less important to plan for.
For instance, in my case, I was on a road trip and got an infection in my foot that caused thousands of dollars in hospital bills. Heather fell once in our cruise ship cabin as well and luckily, we were already in our debarkation port and could make it to our doctor so it worked out for us. However, that's just because we were lucky. The point here though is that these situations could both have been worse if we hadn't prepared for a medical emergency.
Going on a vacation can be extremely exciting, whether locally or overseas. Not only do you spend time with your friends and family, you also get to explore new places and cultures. However, many things can go wrong while traveling, ruining your trip. This includes unforeseen health problems and accidents requiring immediate medical attention.
Besides determining your accommodation, transport means, and itinerary of things to do, you must prepare for medical emergencies before taking your trip. Start by knowing the potential health risks you’re likely to encounter during your trips and adequately prepare for them in advance.
If you or a loved one suffers a health condition due to medical malpractice, consider working with a reputable law firm like The Tinker Law Firm PLLC to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. With advanced planning and preparation, however, you and your loved ones can remain safe and healthy, ensuring you make the most of your trip.
Know Where To Get Medical Care
The first great way to prepare for medical emergencies when going on a tour is by researching healthcare facilities that offer quality care close to your travel destination. Knowing quality care is available whenever you need it can give you some peace of mind while on vacation, especially if you’re traveling overseas. Request a list of in-network providers at your destination from your health insurance company.
Alternatively, ask your doctor to recommend some of the best medical facilities that you can visit in your destination. Having contact details of several local physicians can help while traveling since they understand local infections and the best treatment for them. Finding a local specialist is especially important if you have a chronic health condition and you experience a medical emergency while on vacation.
Purchase Health Insurance And Medical Evacuation Insurance
Besides locating a good physician or healthcare facility near your destination, consider buying a travel insurance and medical evacuation insurance policy. If you already have medical coverage, ask your insurer about the type of coverage you‘ll have in your destination country. Making sure you have enough coverage before traveling is crucial since getting treatment or medical evacuation from another country can be extremely costly and is often not covered by regular health policies. Purchasing the right medical coverage beforehand can be a lifesaver in case you have a serious medical problem while on tour. And the best part is that this coverage is usually inexpensive.
Pack A Travel-Friendly First-aid Kit
A first aid kit can come in handy in curing common traveler’s ailments. it is remarkable how many times our first-aid kit has come in handy. Make sure your kit is well-stocked with any prescription medication you take as well as items that might be important for that particular trip such as altitude or anti-nausea medication.
You may also want to pack over-the-counter medications like antihistamines, antacids, and painkillers. This way, you won’t have to start looking for a drugstore if you experience a stomach ache, headache, or other minor health issues. Be careful, though since items such as CBD remedies that are legal and common in the United States aren't necessarily ok when traveling internationally. Don’t forget to pack tweezers, adhesive bandages, and antibiotic ointment that will help you treat minor cuts, blisters, and injuries.
When preparing this first-aid kit for your travels though, make sure not to over pack. The goal here is to have something compact enough to bring with you wherever you go. That means it should fit easily into your backpack or suitcase. This is not a replacement for a drugstore.
With proper preparation, you can effectively address any health issues and emergencies you encounter during your trip. This will save you a lot of money and hassles in case you or a loved one experiences a medical emergency while vacationing. It will also ensure you and your family or friends stay safe and healthy throughout the trip.
