Who doesn’t get excited about summer vacation? It’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of warm weather and the thought of going away on a much-needed vacation. The last thing on most travelers’ minds is that they might end up needing medical assistance. It’s comforting to know that, in the face of the unexpected, UPMC Health Plan members have access to the services of Assist America.

Before leaving town, here are some simple things you can do to safeguard your health and make sure your travels go as smoothly and safely as possible.

• Make sure your have your Assist America card and telephone numbers.
• Check your medications. If you need more for your time away, call your physician. Pack your medications in your purse or carry-on bag and keep prescriptions in their original, labeled containers. If any of your medications are controlled or injectable substances, carry a note from the prescribing physician on official letterhead.
• Learn about health risks associated with your destination – and how to avoid them. Plan for necessary vaccinations and inoculations well in advance of your trip. Some vaccines and medications require shots or oral administration starting weeks before departure and continuing after your return.
• Pack a copy of your lens prescription if you wear glasses. Accidents happen, and you might need to replace your glasses while on vacation. Keep the prescription in a safe place along with any other medical prescriptions and important papers. You might also want to pack an old pair of glasses – they could provide a temporary solution.
• Make a copy of your passport and leave it behind with a family member or friend who can fax it to you in an emergency. Also take along an additional copy and pack it in a separate place from the original, just in case.

In the U.S., call Assist America at 1-800-872-1414. Outside the U.S., call 1-609-986-1234.