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What to Know about Travelling with Medications & Medical Equipment

by Samit Patel on May 30, 2022

Many people put off travelling because they are worried about transporting their medications and medical devices. Let's face it, travelling these days can be stressful at times. There are things to pack and large crowds to deal with. We worry about missing out on all the fun because we need to take our heart meds or diabetes medication at a certain time each day. But not anymore! Proper planning can make your travel with medications go smoothly.

 

See Your Doctor First

Before you book your flights, talk to your doctor about your medications, any concerns with their use, or if you need to make any changes to your plan. Your doctor will most likely tell you to discontinue taking your medications, and some medicines may need to be replaced with similar ones that are safe to take while you are travelling.

 

Get Travel Insurance

Whether you are going on a trip to another city or visiting a foreign country, getting travel insurance is a good idea. Insurance policies vary but can provide coverage for the loss of a prepaid trip, the theft of valuables and the cost of evacuating you if you become sick away from home.

 

Know & Understand the Laws in Your Destination Country

Your destination and how long you are staying will determine what medications you can bring with you. There are strict laws about bringing certain medications into the country in some countries. Additionally, there may also be restrictions on how many you can get in and how much you can take out with you. You should familiarise yourself with the laws of your destination country.

 

Learn about Their Culture & Customs

Different regions and ethnic groups have different traditions even within the same country. This may also apply to how they do things in the medical field.

 

Bring a Pill Organiser

You can purchase a lightweight pill organiser that is designed to fit in your pocket or purse. It makes taking your medications easy, and there is no need to carry around a bunch of bottles and vitamins when you are travelling.

 

Check Restrictions on Medical Equipment

Many of us travel with medical devices such as blood pressure monitors, glucose monitors and oxygen tanks, to name a few.

It is important to familiarise yourself with the restrictions on the use of medical equipment in your destination country. Different countries have different rules and regulations. 

Some countries may require you to bring an original prescription from your doctor, government certification and/or a letter from your doctor. There are also some countries may require you to have a letter of consent from your doctor.

 

Pack Enough for Your Trip

The last thing you want to do is run out of medication or medical equipment while you are away. Be sure to pack enough medication and equipment to last you until you return home.

For example, if you have diabetes and are going on a two-week trip, you may want to bring enough insulin to last you two weeks. Even if you think you will not need it, you never know if you will get sick or have to stay in the doctor's office longer than expected.

 

Happy Travels!

Travelling with your medications can be a lot easier thanks to a little planning.

By talking to your doctor and packing any medical equipment you will need, you will be well-prepared. Pack enough medications to last you until you return home. Take time to learn about the country you are visiting, its culture, customs, and laws.

Do you need medicine online in NZ? Unichem Greenhithe Pharmacy offers a range of treatments and options to help you achieve the best health solutions. All our pharmacists are trained by the Australian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine. Get in touch with us!

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