A
relaxing vacation after a physically and emotionally exhausting medical
treatment is just what a patient needs to get back on his/her feet. Luckily,
most medical travel destinations have abundant tourism opportunities for their
patients with Thailand, Costa Rica, Malaysia and India being some of the most
popular ones.
A
relaxing spa day at one of Phuket’s beach resorts or a serene temple visit in
India is enough to re-energize patients and restore their enthusiasm. However,
one must tread with caution while planning a post-treatment vacation to make
sure that the activities aren’t stressful and don’t come in the way of the
patient’s recovery.
Considerations While Planning The Vacation
1. Intensity Of The Procedure
The more critical the
procedure, the longer it will take to recover. The recovery period, hence,
should preferably be a part of the vacation. Careful vacation planning is an
essential part of medical tourism.
The
patient must plan his vacation depending on the intensity of the procedure.
Procedures like cardiac, nervous or orthopedic are major and need greater care,
while cosmetic, dental are considered minor.
The
patient must chalk out his itinerary such that his vacation is not detrimental
to his health while in the recovery process.
A patient
who has just undergone something as intense as chemotherapy, for example, must
keep away from long journeys and strenuous activities as he is very susceptible
to infections from germs. Or if the patient had cardiac surgery recently, he
may be advised to avoid or postpone air travel, as it can increase the risk of
developing blood clots.
2. Duration Of Recovery Period
The
recovery period after the procedure must also be accounted for when planning a
vacation. In case of a long recovery period, patients can opt for a short
vacation, while patients with short recovery periods can indulge in longer,
more adventurous vacations.
A short
trip, while not physically tiring, avoids the expenses and preparations of a
longer trip which can be unfavorable considering the patient’s weak health. A
long trip, though costing a little more, can be perfect for the patient to
unwind and then return to his normal routine.
3. Focus On Complete Recuperation
The
pivotal part of any vacation after treatment is the patient’s recovery and it
is essential that it remains the focal point. Physical and occupational therapy
are often a part of medical vacations to maintain and improve the patient’s
physical and mental health.The patient must consult his doctor before deciding
to go on any vacation, long or short so that nothing comes in the way of his
recovery.
All
precautions must be taken to maintain proper health and fitness. Patients still
recovering from treatment should refrain from partaking in adventure sports,
heavy shopping or even trying different cuisines, all in the interest of maintaining
good health.
4. Know All Possible Complications
While on
vacation, the patient must be fully prepared for any kind of complication or
medical emergency that may crop up. It is always a good idea for patients to
keep in constant touch with their physicians to cope with any situation that he
may be faced with.
A patient
having lymphedema issues, for example, should opt for a compressive sleeve to
manage their symptoms. The patient should also take care to carry all his
medicines and store them safely. It is also a good idea to know where the
nearest hospital is, in case of any emergency.
5. Availability And Work Schedule
Medical travel
providers wisely analyse the work schedules of the clients and
carefully layout the
plans for their medical treatment and holidays.
The only
way for a vacation to be truly relaxing is if it accommodates the patient’s
busy schedule. While a vacation to restore good health is important, it is also
essential to make sure that it does not disrupt the patient’s personal and
professional life.
If one
plans to travel with family or a companion, it is also important to have their
schedules in mind while planning a trip. Many people opt for medical travel
facilitators to orchestrate their travel plans for them, thus being free of all
the hassle it entails.
6. Estimating Expenses
The
expense of a vacation after the treatment can be taxing to deal with, if out of
budget. Medical travel involves financial planning and budget estimation before
deciding to proceed with the treatment.
While on
vacation, the patient must account for hotel charges, food, transportation
costs or any additional charges for tourist activities. In order to make such a
trip affordable, patients can opt for packages offered by travel agents as they
include airfare, accommodation and treatment at cheap rates.
7. Knowing Your Companion’s Preferences
Patients
often like to vacation with a family member or a companion, as the presence of
a known face in a foreign country can be very comforting. It is important to
take their preferences into consideration while not compromising on the
patient’s needs to have a good visit abroad. Their accommodation, food choices
and recreation must be taken into account while on holiday. The memories made
with a loved one on vacation can often be just as healing as the medical
treatment itself.
A well
planned vacation after medical treatment provides patients with much needed
respite and a chance to relax before resuming their normal lives.
No comments:
Post a Comment