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Information about all aspects of finances affected by a serious health condition. Includes income sources such as work, investments, and private and government disability programs, and expenses such as medical bills, and how to deal with financial problems.
Information about all aspects of health care from choosing a doctor and treatment, staying safe in a hospital, to end of life care. Includes how to obtain, choose and maximize health insurance policies.
Answers to your practical questions such as how to travel safely despite your health condition, how to avoid getting infected by a pet, and what to say or not say to an insurance company.

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Summary

If you are considering traveling outside the U.S., consider each of the following subjects:

NOTE:

  • It is advisable to take with you important contact information while traveling abroad 
  • There are apps available for smart phones that will translate English into most foreign languages so you can both see the words and hear how they are pronounced. (Or you can let the person with whom you are trying to communicate see or listen to the words).
  • For tips about minimizing transportation costs, click here.
  • For information about travel within the United States, click here.
  • Smart phone apps provide real time currency exchange rates. For example: XE Currency is a free app.

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Emergency Contact Information While Traveling Abroad

Following is helpful contact information to keep with you while traveling outside the United States. It is also helpful to take contact information for your primary care physician and spcialist(s):

  • Emergency Assistance for American citizens traveling abroad: 888.407.4747  or 202.501.4444 (to call the United States while abroad, you must use the country code 001)
  • Contact information for U.S. Embassies, Consulates and Diplomatic Missions:  www.usembassy.gov/ offsite link 
    • Government personnel are available 24/7 to provide emergency assistance to American citizens. This includes help transferring oney from the U.S. for medical expenses, finding appropriate medical services and letting family and friends know what is happening.
  • Credit card companies:
    • American Express 336.393.1111
    • Diners Club 303.799.1504
    • Discover 801.902.3100
    • MasterCard 636.722.7111
    • Visa 410.581.9994

NOTE: It is also advisable to take a copy of:

  • Your prescriptions in case there are questions at a border or in case you need refills while abroad.
  • A packet with health insurance information and claim forms
  • A letter from your doctor describing your medical condition and medications you take