Scotland's voice for spina bifida, hydrocephalus and related conditions.
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Holiday and Insurance Tips from SSBA

It's getting to that time of the year when many people start booking their summer holidays. The Scottish Spina Bifida Association have been receiving many calls on issues ranging from insurance to getting medical supplies abroad, so we thought it would be helpful to pull together a list of information which would be useful to consider when traveling abroad on holiday.
  • If you have a shunt, it is a good idea to carry a shunt alert card (available from SSBA) and have the contact details of your neurosurgeon, in case of emergency. This is so that your latest scans and shunt type can be accessed if a problem arose while you were away. Before you go - discuss your travel plans with your Consultant if you've had recent surgery.
  • Another tip is to shop around for travel insurance. Some companies accommodate pre-existing conditions whereas others may quote high premiums for medical needs. We have compiled a list of insurance companies who will insure travellers with Spina Bifida, Hydrocephalus and shunts. These include - AllClear Travel and FISH Insurance. However, it is important to check that your insurance covers all of your specific conditions. Please let us know what companies you have found useful for covering your travel insurance needs.
  • Most mainland European and other mainstream destinations tend to have accessible Neurosurgical centres, which is reassuring in case of any shunt problems. However, if you are planning a more remote trip - check if there are appropriate medical facilities nearby.
  • Carrying medical supplies can bulk up your luggage so if you are going away for a longer holiday it might be worth considering using services such as World Assist which can have your supplies delivered to your destination. Also bear in mind that custom officers may not recognise your medical supplies and may query items in your hand luggage. To avoid any issues through customs it may be wise to carry a letter from your doctor explaining your need to carry supplies with you.
  • When booking your holiday it is worth checking out accessibility, and to ask for a detailed description of the accommodation to make sure it's appropriate for your needs. For example, some hotels advertising wheelchair accessible bathrooms have baths with a rail and low over-bath seat to transfer, whereas others have fully accessible wet rooms with a level access shower.
  • Finally, plan ahead so that everything is in place for a great holiday.
If you have any further queries - please contact SSBA Direct Services on 01236 794500 or use the lo-call helpline on 08459 11 11 12.

 

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