For several patients on dialysis, travel will be a vital lifestyle aspect. Some individuals might need to go on business trips, some are required to attend family events, and others simply want to fulfill their wishes and dreams. Regardless of your motivation, traveling while on dialysis is a process you must prepare for well in advance. Use this guide to streamline the procedure:
Is travel a possibility for kidney patients?
Most patients who have had a kidney transplant or are currently receiving dialysis can travel safely. You can continue your treatment even when you’re away from home. However, it’s always recommended to consult your doctor before you begin planning a trip. They will advise on the best course of action to take, and might even provide some information on healthcare resources at your destination. Many doctors will actually encourage vacations if your condition is stable, as travel can be quite beneficial to your well-being and overall morale.
Can transplant-waiting patients travel?
Yes, but you must inform your transplant team of your travel plans. They can help you decide whether you can return home within a reasonable amount of time in case a kidney becomes available or if you should be temporarily removed from the list for the duration of your trip. Remember that you will likely have to wait for virology tests to come back negative before you can be reactivated on the transplant list. This is especially true for destinations with a higher risk of infection, such as Africa and the Indian subcontinent.
Planning a trip as a person on dialysis
When planning a trip, prioritize your health. Start by finding a trusted dialysis center at your chosen destination. If you’re traveling to a popular location such as Malaga in Spain, for instance, the reputable Hospital Santa Elena will be a safe choice due to their extensive experience and excellent service. Make sure to contact the center approximately two months in advance to make the necessary arrangements and ensure the hospital can honor your request. If you’re having trouble finding a suitable dialysis center, ask your current team whether they have a staff member experienced in arranging dialysis treatments in different locations.
Preparing information and documentation
To plan your treatments effectively, most hospitals will require detailed information. This includes your basic personal information, medical history, recent scans and lab results, dialysis prescription, dialysis access type, list of medications, insurance information, and more. Your doctors can aid in determining the necessary documentation, and they can send it over to your destination center as well. However, you should also carry hard copies of your documents with you to ensure no critical information is left out.
The cost of dialysis around the world
Depending on where you’re from and where you’re traveling, your current insurance might also cover dialysis treatments away from home. For example, dialysis will be accessible within all EU countries (including Switzerland) if you have the new Global Health Insurance (GHIC) or an updated European Health Insurance (EHIC) card. Similarly, Medicare will cover 80% of dialysis treatment costs across the US and its territories. In other instances, it’s best to research your destination’s specific costs and arrangements. See whether the country has a reciprocal agreement with your own – this might allow you to arrange dialysis for free.
What if you get sick while traveling?
To ensure a pleasant vacation, be realistic and reasonable when planning your activities. Don’t overdo it; plan enough time for activities and outings to avoid exhaustion, and be mindful of your fluid intake and diet, especially if you’re following a kidney-friendly plan. If you get sick during your trip, make sure to contact your transient doctor. They will be prepared for this possibility and coordinate with your home team to deliver appropriate care. Consider a comprehensive travel insurance policy as well if you’re concerned about covering healthcare costs in an unfamiliar destination.
Traveling while on dialysis isn’t easy, but it is possible when the suitable accommodations are made in advance. Consider the advice above when planning your trip, and always make sure to check with your doctors.
