COMMON QUESTIONS
Review answers to travel related questions concerning
medication & special needs
This section answers your questions about medication
and special needs while you are traveling to the United States of America.
Traveling with Medication and Special Needs
If prescription medications are a big part of your life, be sure to carry
duplicate prescriptions with you when you travel, written and translated
for both generic and brand names, in case your medicine should be stolen
or lost. In addition, bring more medicine than you need; an extra week's
supply is a good rule of thumb. Make sure to carry all medications with
you in your carry-on bag.
Are there any restrictions on the medications I must
bring?
If you are carrying a narcotic-based prescription drug (i.e. sedatives,
tranquilizers), make sure to get a letter from your doctor stating why
you need the drug or drugs in question to avoid potential problems with
customs officials.
How do I schedule my medication while crossing time
zones?
Avoid "medication lag" by adjusting your dosing schedule to match the
time zone in your destination. If you are afraid you will get confused
or if you have to keep track of more than one medication, it may help
to have an extra wristwatch set on home time.
How do airlines accommodate the physically impaired?
Most passengers can load and unload through all-weather gate-to-plane
jetways. A few flights may not be jet service and passengers must climb
stairs to board. Please check with your travel agent or airline when you
make your flight arrangements to determine the type of service provided.
Most airlines are glad to make arrangements for wheelchairs and other
travel aids if you inform them of your needs at the time of making your
booking/purchasing your ticket.
Other Health & Travel Tips
¥ Have a plan for medication.
¥ Ask about immunizations.
¥ Request special meals.
¥ Travel with a companion.
¥ Carry a medical emergency sheet in your wallet that outlines your health
problems and your wishes should you become incapacitated. Make sure this
sheet is translated into English.
¥ Contact the airline you will be flying on to alert them to any special
needs you may have as soon as you book your flight.
Visit Tips on Taking Medicines
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