Traveling Out of the Country? Find a Physician's Practice and Get Checked Out First

If you aren't up to date on your vaccinations and you plan on traveling outside of the country, you want to visit a medical practice. It can be hard to get in for an appointment right away if you don't have a family physician that you see on a regular basis, so you will want to call a clinic that has more than one physician and explain that you are leaving the country to see if you can get a reserved appointment or to get in urgently. Here are some of the things to consider before you leave the country and go on your trip.

Vaccination Updates and Requirements

You want to have a variety of shots before traveling for your own safety and overall well-being, so you can avoid catching illness and disease if possible. The country that you are going to visit may require that you have specific vaccinations, or the United States may require that you have these vaccinations if you plan to return home. Get an updated list so you know before you travel, and your physician may have recommendations for other vaccinations that should get.

Physical Needs

Getting a physical before traveling is highly recommended by physicians, especially if you're going to be traveling by air. You want to make sure that your heart is in good condition to fly, that you don't have any blood pressure problems, and that you can pass a general physical. Schedule this when you plan to be seen to get your vaccinations.

Health Travel Warnings

Research any health travel warnings that are going on in the country where you are traveling. If there is an outbreak of some type of disease, or if there is an insect that is carrying a virus, talk about preventative options if possible. The physician may recommend that you wear long clothing during your visit or use a specific type of mask in communal areas, or they may suggest you don't go.

Traveling to a new country can be an unforgettable and amazing experience, but you want to make sure that you are healthy enough to travel, and that you take all of the precautions that you should before you get on the plane and take off. Find a physician group that is accepting new patients, get in so you can feel confident when you book your flights and make your plans, and head out of the country for your adventure.