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Steve_B_'s avatar
Steve_B_
Explorer
Jun 26, 2017

Health issues on the road

I spent much of today passing yet another kidney stone, at home. I have faced this while camping as well. I'm wondering how others handle health issues while on trips or if the concerns keep you at home. I have a 2 1/2 week trip planned to remote areas of Maine in August and when this happens it makes me question the wisdom of continuing to do trips like this. I'm sure that when I'm feeling normal again I'll forget about it and carry on. I didn't have to get to the ER today but I've had to many times in the past. I pack some good pain killers for emergency but they are getting very careful about prescribing them now. Any advice from others with issues?
  • I'm 74 have an artificial heart valve and pacemaker and I share your concerns about illness on the road but I'm really pretty fit and active. Before I got the heart valve my cardiologist really didn't like our remote locations. I guess my biggest worry is getting real ill or dying on the road and leaving my wife to cope. However, I don't like the alternative; that is, selling the motor home and just staying home. Old age will force that eventually but worry will not. Really, medical help is never too far away with a cell phone so we're not staying home at this point.
  • This isn't an insurance coverage question, I'm covered. It's being where there is no cell service, no close emergency facility, and camping alone. Like a couple of people commented, mostly I'm apt to just do it - you can't worry about whether or not these things happen, but then when I've just been through it I start to wonder if I should give up the remote camping and just play safe and stay closer to civilization.
  • I have a friend that only travels by car. They don't travel anymore because of a health issue will on vacation. Nothing to do with RVing. Myself, I had two feinting spells because of low blood pressure. ER Doctor said no more driving until I got a pace maker. 2000 miles from home and my wife drove the whole way. You do what you have to do.
  • Most health insurance policies include ER and sometimes urgent care coverage anywhere in the US. And many have provisions for "out of plan" coverage, usually at higher co-pays. Out of the country coverage can be dicey though...
  • 1. Know where the nearest emergency medical facility is.
    2. Ensure your cell phone works wherever you are. If not some type of extra radio might work-CB, ham (assuming some work on different frequencies/principals).
    3. Know your EXACT location by using GPS coordinates.
    4. If you can't get emergency help it is essential you have a second person that can drive.
    5. Take any meds, etc., that you may need with you.
    6. Use precautionary measures prior and during your vacation-watch your diet, activity or other such potential cause of an issue.
    7. Have all your medical info written down-chronic conditions, allergies (medicines especially), insurance info, doctor's name & number, etc. These things aren't easy to remember when one is stressed.
  • I,m 71 have had 29 stones. and I go where I want. take my pain killers with me. best thing I,ve found is don,t sit while its trying to move walk around, take a ride in a golf cart on a bumpy road, good luck ,been there. it might help to know where the nearest help can be had if needed.
  • What good is a health insurance plan if it will not cover you when traveling? I thought most did extend coverage beyond the state one lives in.....why?.....because people travel. I am fortunate to have a good plan and good health but you never know when an emergency may come up so you do what is prudent and go to the ER. or an extended hours clinic.
  • ER when out of routine health issues pop up........insurance or not.

    Routine/on-going/known health issues......plan ahead and have enough plus meds for duration of trip

    And no I do not go thru wondering what -ifs-.

    IF that was the case I would have rolled over and taken a dirt nap years ago

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