Insurance
Make sure you have the insurance coverage appropriate for the type of travel you are doing. If you are covered under a Medicare HMO you have coverage for emergencies anywhere in the world. You will not be covered for routine care not provided by your primary care physician. If you are going on an extended trip be certain that you have enough of any routine medications you need. Be sure to carry your health plan card with you when you travel. If traditional Medicare covers you, you will have coverage throughout the United States, but you will not be covered outside the country. You can purchase a special policy for coverage for travel outside the country.
Vaccinations
If you are traveling abroad, you may need to update or add to your protection against some infectious diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has information about outbreaks of infections disease around the world and recommendations for vaccinations need for travel.
Food Safety Follow the expert's recommendations about food and water safety in foreign countries, especially developing countries. Avoid non-bottled water and the use of ice cubes in your drinks. Limit salads and fresh fruits to those you have prepared personally and can feel secure have been washed properly. Be sure all meats are properly cooked.
Preventing Accidents
More travelers are affected by injury than by infectious illness. Applying some common sense to your travel plans can prevent most accidents. When traveling by car, plan for frequent stops and never drive to the point of exhaustion. Drivers falling asleep behind the wheel cause many accidents each year. If you are driving in a foreign country, be sure you are familiar with the local traffic rules. Driving on the left side of the road for the first time can cause disorientation. Be especially careful when driving at night. When renting a car, check out the tires, breaks and lights. If you are arranging transportation in a foreign country, use some discretion. If you are hiring a driver, be sure to hire from a reputable company, and insist on well-trained drivers. Ask for documentation of safety records if possible. Be careful when using public transportation in some less developed countries. Buses may be in poor mechanical and safety condition, and drivers poorly trained.
