Travelling abroad between treatments

[SusannaUK]

I opened this thread to get some information from you about travelling. I have read that most of the patients travelled between treatments and would like to know what are the important things we have to be aware of.

We would like to go to Hungary for approx. 12-14 days between two treatments. If my husband's pain will be sorted I will book the tickets. He takes so many medicines, morphine (liquid too, they are in 120 ml bottles)) etc. I don't know how it works at custom.

Have you received an authorization from your oncologist that this patient has cancer and needs to take this and that medicines? Shall we put the medicines in our hand luggage or in checked-in bag?

What about insurance? I guess we have to pay a high insurance for him.

Shall I try to find an oncologist in Hungary in case of emergency?

So many questions I have. I am a bit worried about the trip, but this is what he would like to do and I want to go too. It would be nice to be with my family.

Can you please give me some advise, those who travelled?

Thank you in advance.

Susanna x

[nikkis]

Hi Susanna,

This is a page I found useful for travelling abroad-

http://www.nhs.uk/chq/Pages/2593.aspx?CategoryID=70&SubCategoryID=175

Health insurance is tricky if you are on chemo, I think Hungary is in the EU? In which case make sure you have valid E111 health cards, which entitle you to the same Heath care as locals. I know some people just rely on this, as you will have a good idea what health care there is like, hopefully you will know if this is a risk you want to take.

Hope that helps,

Nikki

[SusannaUK]

Thank you Nikki!

This link is very useful, I didn't know half of this, so thanks for that. Yes, Hungary is an EU country, so E111 is definitely needed. He has a valid E111.

Unfortunately my husband is very poorly now, so I am not sure if we can go or not, but I still would like to get information from people who travelled. I hope he will be better soon and we can go.

Susanna x

[PCUK Nurse Dianne]

HI Susanna,

I am aware of the current situation, however this may be helpful for other members of forum too. Thanks Nikki for the information on E111. From the prespective of medications you would need a letter from one of the medical team explaining the medications that your husband is on. Best to take these in your carry on luggage as would need to be 'checked in with you' and also best should there be any delays that you have that medication with you too.

From the travel insurance perspective you may need to declare your husband's status if you are taking out travel insurance due to any issues should he become unwell whilst on the plane and require some additional attention by the crew,or even a place that he may need to lie down. From an insurance perspective you may find that this is very expensive, however if you wish to touch base with us (email: support@pancreaticcancer.org.uk) we can talk through this with you a little further. We are also aware that some insurance companies may offer some very good deals, however you would need to consider all the caveits in the insurance policy.

I am sure many of our 'forum family' have experiences they can share with you, please do not hesitate to be in contact if you wish to have a longer chat about this.

Dianne

Pancreatic Cancer Specialist Nurse

Support Team

[SusannaUK]

Thank you for the information Dianne. I am planning to call you one day because I have so many questions about pain relief too. I am just struggling with free time, because I am very busy with the boys and all other staff I have to do.

I hope to speak with you soon.

Susanna

[PCUK Nurse Dianne]

Thanks Susanna,

We certainly understand what a difficult time this must be for you. If you do not feel up to phoning, please do feel free to email us on our support line (support@pancreaticcancer.org.uk) as this may be an option that is more suitable. Many people find it easier to email during the evening or very early morning when the remainder of the house is quiet (ie children in bed), so if that is easier please do. We would respond to your email and any questions you have as soon as we can.

Thinking of you at at this time Susanna, this must be heartbreaking for you.

Dianne