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Traveling Smart

When it’s time to plan your family vacation, or anytime you or a child with a bleeding disorder will be traveling, it’s best to think ahead and be prepared. Chances are nothing will go wrong, but should a problem arise, stay calm or keep your child calm and comfortable until you can get to the nearest HTC or hospital in the area. Your needs will be a bit different depending on the type of vacation you will be taking: be it camping, going to a big city, or to the beach. FactorHealth has provided you with a few travel tips to help put your mind at ease while you’re on vacation.

Before you head off for your vacation:

• Within the U.S., call ahead to the HTC and/or hospital in the area you will be vacationing to let them know your family has someone with a bleeding disorder. Contact your local HTC or the National Hemophilia Foundation; 1-800-424-2634 for information
• Bring a letter from your doctor detailing the type of bleeding disorder, factor dosage, treatment requirements and emergency contact information
• Check your medical insurance policy if you will be in another state or out of the country to ensure your coverage will be effective

Save Time, Money, and Worry

Following these simple steps can save you time and worry in the event of a bleed. With planning you can go out and have a wonderful vacation doing all of the activities that will make the trip a lasting memory.

Rewarding Experience

With a little preparedness, you and your family can enjoy a rich and rewarding experience of shared times, new experiences and warm memories. FactorHealth will do everything that we can to assist you in achieving your goals.

What to pack?

There are some specific items you will want to pack:

• Copy of completed travel letter
• Medical ID card and Insurance card
• Proper waste disposal system for used needles and syringes
• A cooler with two ice packs (Don’t use dry ice as it can freeze the factor.)
• Enough factor and supplies for the length of the trip
• Any additional medications needed
• Emergency contact numbers
• Wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace
• For air travel, pack your factor bag and supplies in a portable cooler. Always take your factor on board. Do not check your factor as it may not arrive on time or may be lost. Call your airline if you have any questions
• Give a copy of your travel itinerary to another responsible adult

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