It is important for all visitors to become acquainted with the health-related circumstances at their destination, such as high altitude or pollution, different medical facilities, necessary vaccinations, availability of prescription drugs, etc. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website’s Travelers’ Health page is the primary source for health information, even if some of it may be found in the publications mentioned above.
General health measures, like protecting yourself against bug bites and consuming safe food and drink, are also covered on the CDC website. Additionally, the CDC has a helpline for foreign travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or through fax at 1-888-CDC-FAXX (1-888-232-3299).
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website’s Travelers’ Health page offers general advice on vaccines and other health measures.
Medicare & Medicaid, Insurance, and Medical Evacuation
Medical evacuation to the United States can cost more than $50,000. Receiving medical treatment and hospital care overseas can be costly. It should be noted that neither Social Security Medicare and Medicaid nor U.S. health insurance are often accepted abroad, nor do they offer coverage for hospital or medical expenses.
If you are not covered while traveling overseas by your insurance policy, you might think about getting a short-term coverage that does. Certain health insurance plans are made expressly to provide travel coverage. Numerous private businesses and travel agencies provide insurance policies that will pay for medical costs spent abroad, including emergency services like medical evacuations.
Taking Prescriptions or Medications Overseas
A note from the attending physician detailing the medical condition and any prescription medications, including the generic names of prescribed prescriptions, should be carried by a tourist travelling overseas who has a previous medical condition. All prescription drugs that are being shipped abroad need to be properly labeled and kept in their original packaging.
Tourists should confirm that any necessary prescription drugs are not regarded as illicit narcotics by contacting the foreign embassy of the nation they are visiting. Contact details for foreign embassies and consulates are also available on each nation’s Country Specific Information page.
Make sure you have an additional pair of glasses if you wear them. To ensure you have access to medications and spare glasses in the event that your checked luggage is misplaced, include these items in your hand luggage. Stow a spare pair of glasses and a backup supply of medication in your checked luggage for added security.
Wearing a “medical alert” bracelet may be beneficial if you suffer from allergies, have severe responses to particular foods, drugs, or bug stings, among other specific medical conditions. If you get sick, you might want to bring in a note from your doctor outlining the necessary care.
Hospitals and Physicians
A U.S. consulate official can help get medical assistance and notify family or friends if an American person gets extremely ill or hurt overseas. A consular official can also help with the money transfer from the United States if needed. (Note, however, that the traveler is responsible for covering all hospital and related costs.)
