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Spending a semester abroad is an adventure that many college students look forward to. The chance to learn about and spend time in another country is worth certain inconveniences, such as managing your health care overseas. Of course, your health should be a top priority as a student abroad student. The key to taking care of yourself is being knowledgeable and well-prepared before heading overseas. Likely, you won't experience any health problems other than a common cold, but it is absolutely essential to be ready in the event of a more serious illness or injury.
Your first step before study abroad is to get a thorough check-up. Explain to your doctor that you are planning a study abroad trip. He or she may be able to give you some advice on how to stay safe. Depending on where you are traveling, you may need certain vaccinations. It is up to you to do some research on what vaccinations are required or recommended, so you can discuss this with your doctor prior to traveling.
Knowing your medical history is important in the event that you must be treated in a foreign country. You should know if you are allergic to anything, particularly drugs that may be used in the hospital. You should also know the precautions that you must take if you have any preexisting health conditions.
If you need to take any prescription medications, you'll have to make sure that you will have access to these necessary drugs while abroad. For a short-term study abroad trip, one prescription may be enough. If you are going away for a year or more, however, find out from your doctor how to ensure you can get your prescription overseas. If you are bringing medications on the plane, make sure to keep them in the original bottle with pharmacy label so that you can get through customs.
Students with disabilities may need to make additional arrangements for their safety and well-being. Schools abroad may not have the same regulations when it comes to provided accessibility for students with special needs, so you will need to make inquiries through your study abroad coordinator. Likely, a solution can be found to make study abroad a possibility for you no matter what your needs.
You will need to do some thorough research into what your personal health insurance covers, especially if insurance is not available through your study abroad program. If you are not properly insured, a hospital visit or any other kind of emergency could end up costing you thousands of dollars.
Finally, you may want to stock up on basic medical supplies while abroad. Make sure you have a first aid kit and some over-the-counter medicines so that you are prepared for small injuries or minor illnesses. Often, getting to a doctor while overseas will be inconvenient, so students are often tempted to self-medicate. You should be aware of when it is okay to treat yourself and when it is imperative that you receive medical attention.
A top concern should be to stay safe and healthy when you study abroad. Luckily, with some preparation, you should be equipped to handle whatever life throws at you, whether you are doing a summer semester abroad or an entire year.
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