A little R&R

If you’re a travel nurse, you will likely slip a little vacation time in this summer, maybe even in another country. But how prepared are you for your own medical emergency?   Dr. Robert Smith, UnitedHealthcare of the Midwest medical director says,  “Being prepared can help you respond more quickly and accurately, and save you money on unnecessary medical expenses.”
Dr. Smith offers these tips for travelers:
•    be sure to carry your insurance identification card and a claim form;
•    keep prescription drugs in their original containers in a carry-on bag and be sure they are clearly labeled;
•    get a letter from your physician describing medical conditions and any prescriptions you may be taking, or print a copy of your personal health record;
•    be aware of any health warnings for the country you are planning to visit – current medical alerts can be found on the Center for Disease Control’s Web site;•    learn words for doctor, emergency and hospital in the native language of the country you plan to visit;
•    ensure that you, and your children if they are traveling with you, are current with routine vaccinations; some diseases that are rare in the United States are common in other parts of the world;
•    understand your medical insurance coverage while outside the U.S.; some insurers, such as UnitedHealthcare, offer coverage for emergency care when traveling overseas;
•    travelers with higher medical risks, such as diabetics, severe asthmatics and pregnant women, should consult their physicians before traveling to other countries;
•    contact the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers (IAMAT) at (716) 754-4883 or the nearest U.S. embassy to locate medical facilities and English-speaking doctors in the areas where you are traveling.