Posted by Q (198.64.206.92) on September 24, 2000 at 23:15:49:
In Reply to: going on a trip,what to do??? posted by Michele on September 24, 2000 at 09:33:03:
I travel to Central America frequently for two or more weeks at a time. Being CH-chronic, I am pretty much assured that I will have an attack.
Here is what I do.
(1) Buddy -- I make sure that at least one other person in the group is completely aware of my CH condition. Then, if someone needs to, they can vouch for me.
(2) Supply -- I ask the pharmacy, with whom I have an excellent relationship, to ask the insurance company for a "vacation override" on my Imitrex prescription. Most of the time they will give a 30 day supply, sometimes upto 60 days supply. Of course, your doc will have to write enough refills over the time-span to allow the pharmacy to fill. (The pharmacy can not override the doctor's orders, but if the doctor writes a 6 month script, then the pharmacy can advance one or two months supply).
(3) Packing -- I keep three days worth of meds in my carry-on luggage (usually a backpack). I usually remove all the extra packing materials, but keep the outside Rx label in the ziploc bag in my checked luggage. Sometimes I will put all of my meds in the carry-on and don't worry if the luggage winds-up as a ring on Saturn.
(4) Customs -- I have never had any customs folks give me a problem about my meds, although one of them did remark that I had "quite a supply". After a brief description of CH, he closed the suitcase and sent me on my way, even forgetting about the contraband he had previously found. Hey, its just personal medicine for a bonafide medical condition.
(5) Lost Meds -- If you get an advance on the script and lose the drugs, then the medical insurance company will most likely not cover the loss.
(6) Oxygen -- Airlines have special rules about compressed gases, so you might want to check with them in advance, or arrange to have a supply at your destination. In most places, oxygen is readily available.