Yes, traveling while on dialysis is absolutely possible! A well-planned trip can be a fantastic way to relax and enjoy life, even with kidney disease. The key is preparation and communication with your healthcare team. This guide will walk you through everything you need to consider to travel safely and confidently while undergoing dialysis.
Planning Your Dialysis While Traveling
Traveling while on dialysis requires careful planning. Here’s what to consider:
- Dialysis Scheduling: The most crucial step is arranging dialysis treatments at your destination. This might involve finding a dialysis center or coordinating the shipment of supplies if you’re on home dialysis.
- Destination Selection: Choose a location that aligns with your treatment schedule. If you require frequent dialysis, a closer destination might be easier to manage, allowing you to arrive with ample time before your next treatment.
- Mode of Transportation: Consider the best way to travel based on your needs. Plane, train, boat, or car – each has its own considerations for dialysis patients.
Utilizing a Dialysis Center at Your Destination
If you receive hemodialysis at a center, you’ll need to locate a facility at your destination. Start by:
- Seeking Recommendations: Ask friends or family at your destination for dialysis center recommendations.
- Consulting Your Current Center: Many dialysis centers have staff dedicated to helping patients arrange care while traveling. Your nurse or social worker can assist you.
To ensure seamless care during your trip:
- Book in Advance: Contact the local center at least four to six weeks prior to your trip to make arrangements.
- Inquire About Costs: Clarify the cost of treatment and whether your insurance will cover it. Be aware that Medicare typically doesn’t cover treatments outside the U.S., and Medicaid usually doesn’t cover treatments outside your home state.
- Obtain Medical Records: Request copies of your medical records and recent lab results from your dialysis center to share with the new providers.
Continuing Home Hemodialysis While Traveling
If you perform hemodialysis at home, you can still travel! However, you will need to bring your dialysis machine and supplies with you. Here’s what to consider:
- Traveling with a Partner: If you require a dialysis partner, ensure they can accompany you.
- Airline Regulations: Contact the airline to confirm whether you can bring your dialysis machine as carry-on luggage.
- Hotel Compatibility: If staying at a hotel, confirm that they have the appropriate electrical outlets for your dialysis machine.
- Emergency Planning: Create a list of dialysis centers in the area as a backup in case you need assistance or equipment replacement.
Managing Peritoneal Dialysis While Traveling
Peritoneal dialysis offers greater flexibility because it can be performed in almost any clean and dry environment. Key steps include:
- Shipping Supplies: Arrange to have your supplies shipped to your destination well in advance.
- Emergency Resources: Prepare a list of local dialysis centers should you need assistance during your trip.
International Travel Considerations
Traveling outside the U.S. requires additional planning. Consider the following:
- Insurance Coverage: Contact your insurance provider to determine if your plan covers medical care abroad. If not, explore travel insurance options that specifically cover dialysis and other kidney disease-related care.
- Medication Management: Pack an adequate supply of your medications, along with written prescriptions, just in case.
- Local Healthcare Information: Compile a list of clinics and hospitals at your destination. Hotel staff can often provide helpful recommendations.
- Doctor Consultation: Discuss your travel plans with your doctor to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your condition.
Maintaining Kidney-Healthy Habits on the Road
Maintaining a kidney-friendly lifestyle while traveling can be challenging but achievable with proper planning:
- Pack Smart: Bring kidney-friendly snacks and meals for long journeys, especially when airport or train food options may be high in sodium and phosphorus. Kidney Kitchen® offers great recipes.
- Airline Meals: If flying, inquire about kidney-friendly meal options when booking your flight.
- Hotel Amenities: Take advantage of hotel gyms and pools to maintain your exercise routine.
Traveling While on a Transplant Wait List
You can still travel while on a transplant wait list! Just remember to:
- Inform Your Coordinator: Notify your transplant coordinator about your travel plans and provide reliable contact information.
- Develop a Contingency Plan: Work with your coordinator to create a plan if a kidney becomes available. This includes determining whether to put your status “on hold” or how quickly you could return for the transplant.
Travel Resources for Dialysis Patients
- “The List”: A comprehensive directory of international dialysis centers that accept traveling patients. Contact Dialysis & Transplantation for a copy.
- Specialized Travel Companies: Some companies specialize in travel planning for dialysis patients, offering cruises, international tours, and wilderness adventures.
- Dialysis and Transplant Camps: Camps are available for both adults and children undergoing dialysis or who have received a transplant.
Traveling while on dialysis requires careful planning and communication, but it is definitely possible. By following these guidelines and working closely with your healthcare team, you can enjoy safe and fulfilling travel experiences.
