Quick Tip:

Many people with kidney disease don't know they have it.

 

1 in 9 adult Americans will develop kidney disease in their lifetimes.

  
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Travel Checklist

Being on dialysis doesn’t mean you have to stay home. Every year, many kidney disease patients travel for business and for pleasure. Whether you are flying off to visit a new grandchild, sit by the ocean or sign a contract with a new client, planning well will help guarantee your trip turns out just how you imagined it would.

Every day, dialysis patients travel to new and exciting places and still get the important medical treatment they need. Plan your trip carefully and talk to your healthcare provider before you take off. Have fun!

Travel checklist

• Discuss your trip with your physician and support services staff before you leave. This will keep you informed about exactly what to expect as you head out. In the weeks before you meet with your doctor; jot down any questions that arise so you have them ready to ask at your next appointment.

• Make sure you call your insurance carrier to find out which of your expenses will be covered. Knowing in advance what to expect will keep you from worrying about your financial responsibilities while on the road.

• Contact a dialysis center near where you will be staying, to make sure they will have an opening for you in their schedule. Knowing your dialysis needs will be taken care of will free you to enjoy your vacation. Be sure to always carry with you contact information for the dialysis center you will be using while you travel.

• Keep your medical information with you, in carry-on luggage or a handbag. When you call to schedule your dialysis at the center you will be visiting, get their fax number and send copies of your records ahead of time. The dialysis center you will be visiting will also need general health information (such as X-rays and recent treatment records) as well as your current dialysis prescription.

• Bring along extra medication in case you get delayed while traveling.

• Make sure your trip is planned for you to have some breaks to just enjoy yourself and do some deep breathing. Travel can be exhilarating and stressful. Being able to take a short nap or simply put your feet up will keep you relaxed and able to enjoy your destination.