Health Podcast Library
Season 2Episode 13

Traveling Internationally? Tips for How to Advocate for Your Health Abroad

Jun 3, 2026
10:55

Episode Description

Download the Advocacy Abroad Toolkit here. If no link is available yet, sign up for The Hairy Chin Newsletter below for updates on its release.

https://thehairychin.beehiiv.com/

In this episode, I'm sharing the upsetting experience of my Mom's fall on a rainy bridge in Spain, and what that taught us about preparing for medical emergencies while traveling.

According to the International Society of Travel Medicine, up to 50% of travelers experience a health issue while traveling, and many of those risks can be prevented through preparation before departure.

Preparation doesn't prevent accidents or illness, but it gives you clarity and confidence. And when you're far from home, that really does mean a lot.

If you're planning international travel and want to know how to advocate for your health abroad, you're traveling with medications or chronic conditions, you want to reduce anxiety about medical emergencies while traveling, or you're traveling with family and want to be prepared for health emergencies, then this episode is for you.

Timestamps:

[00:01:20] The Hairy Chin Advocacy Abroad Toolkit Download

[00:01:40] When My Mom Got Hurt Abroad

[00:03:36] Preparation Eliminates Panic

[00:03:50] Know Country Emergency Numbers

[00:04:16] Understanding Health Insurance Coverage

[00:04:38] Paying Medical Bills Upfront and Reimbursements

[00:05:17] International Travel Insurance

[00:06:01] Resources, the Embassy, Consulates, and the STEP Program

[00:06:49] The Emergency Information Sheet

[00:07:22] Traveling with Medications

[00:08:03] Allergies

[00:08:47] Translation Apps and Offline Language Packs

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Disclaimer: The Hairy Chin does not provide medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personal medical concerns.

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