A lot of work goes into planning the perfect vacation. You have to plan your road trip or airline route, determine your itinerary, and make hotel reservations for your stops along the way. By the time you are done with the stress of coordinating everything, you definitely need that vacation!

One thing that is often overlooked with the excitement of all that planning, however, is the possibility of an unexpected illness or injury while on vacation. With a little preparation, you can reduce the additional stress should the worst happen.

Create A Medical Information Folder

For every traveler in your party, compile a basic medical information sheet. Include a photocopy of any insurance cards. If the social security number is listed, remember to black it out in case you misplace the folder in a hotel. List any medical conditions as well as each prescribed medication and the dosage. If traveling overseas, be sure to include a vaccination record. Don't forget to include blood type and the prescription if you wear eyeglasses or contacts.

Make A Contact List

Who should be contacted in the event of a medical emergency? Compile the names, addresses, and phone numbers of anyone you would want notified if something happened. Have each member carry the information in their wallet or purse. Be sure to let the people on your contact list have a copy of your itinerary as well.

Bring Extra Prescriptions

Let your medical provider know you will be traveling and ask them to authorize additional prescriptions for your medications in the event they are lost or stolen. Some prescriptions, such as narcotics, may not be able to be duplicated; but in a worse case scenario, your physician will be more likely to call one in for you if he knows you are traveling.

Do Your Research Ahead Of Time

Know which urgent care facilities and emergency care centers are available at your destination. You can talk to a professional, like Medical Clinic of Big Sky, for more information. This planning period is especially important if anyone in your party has a chronic illness, such as diabetes or heart disease. Also, review your insurance policy so you are familiar with what they cover and what your responsibilities are if you need out-of-network care.  

The extra planning will be well worth it and provide peace of mind, and hopefully your vacation will be nothing but much needed relaxation.