Health Risks When Traveling Abroad
Traveling internationally requires careful health preparation, as exposure to new environments can introduce various illnesses. It’s crucial to prioritize health as part of your travel planning, especially when visiting destinations with different health standards.
At least four weeks before departure, it’s recommended to visit a travel health center or consult with your physician. This allows time to receive necessary vaccinations or prophylactic medications tailored to your destination, according to information from the Puerto Rico Department of Health here.
When traveling, it’s key to be prepared for potential medical needs. Not all medical or insurance plans cover international travel, so consider supplemental travel or medical evacuation insurance. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program through the U.S. Department of State to receive emergency notifications and facilitate contact with U.S. Embassies if issues arise learn more.
Bring an adequate supply of any necessary prescription and over-the-counter medications from the United States, along with a few extra days’ worth. Before your trip, verify the legality of your medications in your destination country by contacting the local embassy. Be aware of the potential for counterfeit medications in some regions.
Carry a card in the local language detailing your blood type, any chronic medical conditions, current medications, and allergies. Individuals with serious medical conditions should consider wearing a MedicAlert bracelet.
For those with health insurance through Seguros SURA, assistance is available when traveling outside of Colombia. To activate international coverage through the Seguros SURA app, navigate to “Urgencias / En viaje / Activar cobertura internacional.” Coverage is valid for up to 90 days outside of Colombia with a Póliza de Salud Global plan, or 60 days with a Póliza de Salud Clásica plan more details are available here.
SURA provides medical assistance for acute illnesses or accidents although abroad, up to a maximum of USD 60,000 per trip. You can request a travel assistance certificate via WhatsApp at +57 315 275 7888. While not always required, a certificate may be necessary for certain travel requirements.
