We always hope travel goes smoothly, but at times it can be unpredictable. In 2023, our family was in Maui for the tragic Lahaina fire. Fortunately, we got off the island after a few days and weren’t medically dependent upon electricity, but we could have been better prepared for an extended stay in Hawaii. This year we were delayed in Minneapolis several days by Delta and the Crowdstrike outage. We now understand how essential it is to prepare for the unforeseen. However, here’s what you can do if you find yourself stranded without these crucial supplies. And a guide for medical preparedness.
If You’re Stuck Unprepared:
Prescription Medications:
First, contact your prescribing doctor immediately. Your doctor can often send an electronic prescription to a local pharmacy, ensuring you get the medication you need ASAP. This step is crucial for daily medications as well as those needed for specific conditions like asthma inhalers, insulin for diabetes, blood pressure medications, and anticoagulants. If you’re unable to reach your doctor, contact your home pharmacy. Many pharmacies can transfer prescriptions to a location where you are temporarily staying.
If these options are not feasible, visit a local pharmacy and explain your situation. Pharmacists can sometimes provide a small emergency supply of your medication, especially if you have a record of your prescription. For controlled substances, this process may be more stringent. You may need to visit a local doctor or clinic, where the physician can assess your situation and provide a new prescription.
In urgent cases, such as running out of essential medications, do not hesitate to go to the nearest emergency room. Hospitals are equipped to handle such emergencies and can provide the necessary medications.
Specific Medical Supplies:
Apart from daily medications, specific medical supplies are also crucial:
– Asthma inhalers
– Insulin for diabetes
– Blood pressure medications
– Anticoagulants
– EpiPens for severe allergies
– Nebulizers and associated medication for respiratory conditions
– Blood glucose monitors and test strips for diabetics
If you find yourself without these, contact local pharmacies or medical supply stores to see if they can provide replacements. For items like blood glucose monitors, many pharmacies can supply a temporary replacement with proof of your prescription or condition.
Contact Lenses:
Running out of contact lenses can also be problematic. Start by contacting your optometrist or ophthalmologist. They can often send your prescription to a local optical store where you can purchase new lenses. Many optical stores offer same-day services for common prescriptions.
If you don’t have your prescription, visit a local optometrist or ophthalmologist. They can perform a quick eye exam and provide you with replacement lenses. For those who rely on online retailers, consider expedited shipping options to get your lenses quickly.
How to Prepare for the Unforeseen
General Tips for Avoiding Medical Shortages While Traveling:
1.Pack Extra: Always bring more than you think you’ll need, at least 1 week, especially for essential medications and supplies. Pack extra contact lenses and your glasses.
2. Create a Checklist: Make a comprehensive list of all medical items you use daily and for emergencies.
3. Travel with Documentation: Carry copies of prescriptions, doctor’s notes, and medical device instructions.
4. Know Local Resources: Research local pharmacies, clinics, and hospitals at your destination.
5. Consider Backup Options: For items like contact lenses, bring glasses, or medical devices, have a backup set.
6. Carry On! Don’t check your medications in case your luggage gets lost or stolen.
7. If your medication is not available at the big pharmacies, like CVS or Walgreens, look at small, family-owned pharmacies outside of town. Hospital pharmacies are a good option too.
In both cases, always carry a copy of your prescriptions and your doctor’s contact information while traveling. This proactive step can save you significant stress and ensure you continue to manage your health effectively, no matter where your travels take you.
Weight loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Semaglutide can be a very difficult RX to fill so I recommend packing more than you need and carrying on all medications. Look at the real photo I took of all the unclaimed suitcases at LAX!
Medical Devices
Being prepared for power outages while on vacation is especially important if you rely on medical devices that run on electricity, such as oxygen or an electric wheelchair. The odds are low, but when we were in the fires in Maui last year this was very serious and real. Before you leave, arrange for a reliable backup power source, such as a generator or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), and ensure it is fully operational. Store extra batteries for battery-operated devices and make sure they are charged. Coordinate with your healthcare provider to discuss your backup plan and ensure you have a contingency plan in place in case of an extended outage. If you are staying in a vacation rental or hotel, communicate your needs with the management to ensure they can accommodate any special requirements you might have.
Orthopedic Medical Preparation
If you’re managing a chronic condition, it’s important to have an ample supply of medications such as NSAIDs, acetaminophen, along with any prescribed pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications. Those with acute injuries or recent surgeries should also bring pain management medications, possibly including opioids or antibiotics, depending on your specific treatment plan. Additionally, having necessary supportive devices like braces, crutches, or orthotic insoles readily available can greatly enhance comfort and mobility while traveling.
For individuals who are post-surgery, preparation is particularly critical. You should ensure you have an adequate supply of post-operative medications, including pain relievers, antibiotics, and any prescribed anticoagulants. It’s also essential to pack any required orthopedic devices, such as post-surgical braces or supports, and have tools for wound care if needed. When we were in Maui last year there wasn’t a cube of ice for miles. It would be wise to pack extra instant cold packs. To prepare for potential disruptions like power outages, patients using electricity-dependent devices, such as bone growth stimulators or TENS units, should bring extra batteries or portable power sources. Additionally, carrying copies of prescriptions, medical records, and emergency contact information for healthcare providers will help manage any unforeseen issues. Carry these on the plane and get on the plane first if possible so the airline won’t check your bag. Oftentimes the airline will allow those who require assistance to board first. By taking these steps, individuals can better handle the challenges of an extended vacation and maintain their health and recovery effectively.
If you have been stranded like us and have other suggestions or tips for smooth travels, please email me at ryanmorganmd@gmail.com and I will write another article like this! Thank you and please be safe on your travels!
Ryan Morgan, MD