Travel Overseas
So that travel bug has bitten you too? Go for it! Naturally your travel agent will be able to answer most of your questions, but there are precautions you’ll need to take to make sure you and your medications make it safely across the borders. We’ll also give you some tips on how to get the most out of your holiday and arrive home as healthy as when you left.
Insurance
Travel insurance covers everything from broken bones to lost luggage, but unless you’re approved for ‘pre-existing condition’ cover, it won’t pay for CF-related medical expenses. This may sound like a small thing if you’re in good health, but anything can happen. If you land in hospital after a skiing accident, you may be up for the cost of any CF- related treatments you receive while you’re there. Insurance companies are usually wary of covering something that could cost them a lot of money. Talk to your CF Association for advice on how to increase your chances of getting coverage.
Travel Insurers
Remember to arrange insurance early, don’t leave it until the last few weeks and contact the companies all at the same time, otherwise once one application is refused the others may refuse you also.
Also, please remember your clinic team are busy people and need substantial time to complete the travel insurance health forms for you as many of the forms require detailed info re last admission, medication etc. Finally, CGU has most recently insured someone whilst others have been refused again, so bear in mind it is different for each individual!
CGU Travel Insurance
Tel: (03) 9601 8252
Vero Insurance
Tel: 131 813
QBE Travel insurance
Tel: 1300 555 017
Covermore Travel Insurance
Tel: 1300 728 822
Worldcare travel insurance
Tel: 1800 008 614
Aussie Travel cover
Tel: 1800 888 448
Columbus direct
Tel: 1300 669 999
Brokers Service:
National brokers association may be able to refer you to an insurance broker
Tel: (02) 9964 9400
Prepare for Everything
You need to take all your medication with you. That can take up a lot of room so it’s tempting to scrimp and go without some things. Don’t assume you’re not going to get sick while you’re away. If you routinely begin oral or inhaled antibiotics when you’re not well, take some with you, just in case. Plane travel, a hectic itinerary and pollution could all have an impact on your health.
Packing – Don’t put all your eggs in one basket: Things go missing. It’s inevitable, considering the amount of luggage passing through international airports each day. A good idea is to carry a small supply of your most essential medication in your carry-on luggage. If you arrive in London only to discover that your suitcase has gone to Lausanne, you won’t be stuck without your enzymes until you get it back!
Documents & Letters
Carry a letter from your doctor explaining your condition, and listing all the medications and equipment you’ll be carrying, including syringes for nebuliser preparation, insulin needles, and any OTC drugs such as Panadeine. This is as important as your passport. It will help if you need to see a doctor, but it’s vital if you’re questioned at customs somewhere. Get the brand names right. It makes life a lot easier if you don’t have to explain to someone in Istanbul that your box of Septrin is the same drug as the Bactrim listed in your letter.
Contacts
Your CF clinic or local CF Association will be able to provide you with details of clinics and organisations (if any) in the areas you plan to visit. Also, check the web for local knowledge from people with CF living in the area.
Power, Pumps and Plugs
Don’t forget the power supply varies from country to country. Not only will your 240-volt hair dryer be a waste of suitcase space in America, so will your nebuliser machine. Talk to your CF Association about borrowing a 12-volt pump for your holiday. These work anywhere however you may need an adapter. You can get an adapter for a few dollars from places like the RAC, Myer or even at the airport for last minute emergencies.
Physio
It’s tough trying to stick to some sort of physio and exercise regimen when you’re on holiday, especially if you’re keeping long hours or if you’re constantly on the move. Try enlisting a couple of your travelling companions to give you a reminder if they notice you’re getting slack.
Planning your Itinerary
Most people like to cram as much as possible into an overseas holiday. After all, it costs a small fortune so you want to get your moneys worth! A hectic schedule, long hours and jet lag can take a toll on anyone – remember to include some R & R days.
And the most important thing...HAVE A FANTASTIC TIME!
For a personal account of an overseas trip see Globetrotting - By Kimberly Blake
