Health Preparation for your holiday should also include taking documented health information with you. Many persons have past and present medical conditions which necessitate involved medical, surgical and prescription drug treatments. You should have a medical sheet with you at all times, listing those past conditions and treatment as well as all current medical diagnoses and the exact name and dosage of any medications. In times of sudden illness or accident, trying to recall everything often proves faulty. Be sure and list any allergies and the names of your home physicians. If you’ve had any heart problems in the past, be sure and take with you a copy of your most current electrocardiogram (ECG). Take the time to do this carefully, being sure to check with family or your physician if there is doubt about a particular question on the application. Have a family member review the completed application before submission. The majority of claim declinations arise from improper completion of the insurance application. Don’t hesitate to call the insurer and ask for any clarification needed with the application. Be sure and take the time to read the policy, especially as it relates to your specific situation. Want to help avoid some of the common health and safety pitfalls experienced by snowbirds? With more than 20 years of experience in dealing with unexpected health, safety and injury events experienced by the snowbird population, the 10 most common issues I have seen will follow. What is so upsetting is that with more careful attention, many of these situations could have been prevented. In our age group, there are many medical issues which may arise at any time over which we have little control, but there are also many that occur when travelling that I know can be avoided. Complete your travel health insurance accurately Take your documented health information with you Important Health Tips for Snowbirds by Robert MacMillan MD 32 | www.snowbirds.org
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