Stay healthy on your holiday! Here's what you've got to do

Are you about to travel overseas? Or even just in the planning process? Seeing your GP is one of the most important things to do before heading off to a foreign destination.

The duration and location of your trip and even the activities you plan on undertaking along with your underlying medical conditions will all affect your doctor’s advice on vaccinations you may need. Your doctor can also advise you on what to do if you become unwell overseas and can preemptively provide you with the right medication for your needs.

Leichhardt General Practice has put together ‘Travel Packs’ to equip patients with medications against chest infections, urinary tract infections, travellers diarrhoea, giardia, nausea and vomiting, and dehydration. LGP's doctors will make sure you have no contraindications and will provide written instructions on how to properly use your medications.

Imagine being stopped at customs because of the big bag of medications you cannot travel without - that would be the worst way to start off your holiday! Obtaining a health summary and a travel letter would be a good idea, as they will document and confirm your need to carry these medications, especially if you suffer from a chronic medical condition and have to take multiple medications or injectable medications. This is particularly important for countries with strict policies on opioid medications and it will help any international doctor in providing you with appropriate treatment should you become unwell. It never hurts to have your medical history on hand!

You want to be in the pink of health before getting on that plane, and seeing your doctor will help ensure that you are adequately vaccinated and well protected before you leave. Equipped with the right knowledge and medication to help you in the event you become unwell, along with appropriate documentation to help health professionals in identifying any medications you may carry with you or a complicated medical history.

Registering with Smartraveller would will make sure the Australian Government knows how to find you in the unlikely event that something were to happen to you on your trip. Obtaining travel insurance is advised.

To make sure your holiday goes as planned, we recommend seeing your doctor at least a few weeks prior to your planned departure date.

Bon Voyage!