They say that prevention is better than a cure, and when it comes to managing medical emergencies overseas and while travelling, we believe that prevention lies in the same camp as preparation.

To be prepared is to not only acknowledge potential risks but take steps that balance those risks, for example familiarising yourself with emergency contact numbers and investing in a membership for MedicAlert medical ID. When you are prepared, you are able to respond efficiently and effectively without wasting time, should an emergency occur. And even if it doesn’t, and such steps are never followed, being prepared gives you the benefit of peace of mind.

With that said, how can you best prepare for medical emergencies while travelling and what are the benefits to both you and to your travel group?

Tips to prepare for medical emergencies while travelling

With preparation being the key to a safe and successful trip, it is important that you spend time researching the correct insurance policies to cover you and to keep you safe. This research should also include information about the medical facilities available around your travel destination, encompassing visa requirements and any vaccinations or other health precautions that are advised.

Perhaps the most important thing to prepare in advance of travel if you are living with a chronic condition or underlying illness is a medical document, detailing all of your important information including allergies, medications, dosage and more. Alternatively, you can benefit from quick and easy access to all this information and more by becoming a MedicAlert member – armed with a medical ID and membership number which provides first responders and healthcare professionals with all your important medical data efficiently via a 24/7 emergency helpline. Offering advice via this helpline in over 100 languages and dialects, MedicAlert membership is by far the most effective tool for preparing for overseas travel, regardless of your medical needs.

Why preparation is so important for those with chronic medical conditions

When MedicAlert member Sarah needed emergency assistance in Greece, not only did her medical ID give the Greek doctors access to all her medical information and background but it also streamlined communication in the midst of a significant language barrier.

With her lifelong condition, encompassing a complex congenital heart condition and scoliosis, Sarah found that MedicAlert membership acted as a form of reassurance for both her and her family. The benefit of access to medical information in over 100 languages and dialects, via a 24/7 emergency phoneline, made MedicAlert a no-brainer investment for Sarah and one that she will forever be grateful for.

“I would recommend anyone with a lifelong condition to join MedicAlert! You may never need it, as you may never need house insurance, but you still get it, and you feel safer.

That one time you need it, you could be in another country, like me, and doctors have no idea what to do... it could save your life!”

For others like Sarah, MedicAlert arms you with a global solution that ensures all important medical information is communicated efficiently and effectively, even when you are unable to speak for yourself. This is especially essential overseas and when travelling, bridging peace of mind and security with the knowledge that your needs – however specific – will be understood and adhered to in an emergency.

For more information on this and to benefit from MedicAlert membership as part of your travel preparation, become a member today.