How to prepare for a video visit about Traveler’s Health Pre-Trip Counseling

Audience: adult

Before traveling internationally or to unfamiliar regions, a video visit for Traveler’s Health Pre-Trip Counseling can help you prepare safely. During this visit, a healthcare provider will discuss your travel plans, health history, and any vaccines or medications you may need. Preparing well for the visit ensures you get the most helpful advice for your trip. This counseling often covers topics like disease risks, food and water safety, insect protection, and managing existing health conditions while abroad. Telemedicine allows you to have this important conversation from home, saving time and making it easier to access expert advice. Remember, this service provides education and guidance but does not replace in-person care when needed. If you experience urgent symptoms or emergencies, seek immediate local medical help.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever lasting more than 2 days during or after travel — seek immediate medical care.
• Severe allergic reaction symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat — call emergency services right away.
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea causing dehydration — get urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Providing vaccine and medication recommendations based on travel plans.
• Answering questions about travel health risks and prevention.
• Reviewing current medications and advising on travel adjustments.
• Offering guidance on managing chronic conditions while abroad.
• Educating about food, water, and insect safety.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing or treating urgent or severe illnesses.
• Managing emergencies such as allergic reactions or injuries.
• Performing physical examinations or laboratory tests.
• Prescribing controlled substances without prior in-person evaluation.
• Providing travel insurance or visa-related advice.

What is Traveler’s Health Pre-Trip Counseling?

Traveler’s Health Pre-Trip Counseling is a discussion with a healthcare provider about your upcoming travel plans. It helps identify health risks related to your destination and activities. The provider may recommend vaccines, medications, or safety tips to reduce your chances of getting sick while traveling. This counseling is important for all travelers, especially those going to countries with different health risks or limited medical resources.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, gather important information to share with your provider:

Make sure your device has a good internet connection and a quiet space for the visit. Have a pen and paper ready to take notes.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

During the visit, the provider will ask about your travel plans and health history. They may discuss:

They will provide personalized advice based on your destination and health needs.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some health concerns require an in-person visit or emergency care, such as:

If you experience these, seek local medical help promptly rather than relying on telemedicine.

Tips for Staying Healthy While Traveling

After your counseling, remember these general tips:

Stay informed about your destination’s health alerts.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your travel destinations, dates, and planned activities.
• Gather your medical history, including chronic conditions and allergies.
• Prepare a list of all current medications and vaccines.
• Write down any previous travel-related illnesses or concerns.
• Ensure your device has a stable internet connection and camera/microphone functionality.
• Find a quiet, private space for your video visit.
• Prepare questions or topics you want to discuss with your provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the vaccine and medication schedule recommended during your visit.
• Keep notes from your counseling session for reference during travel.
• Prepare a travel health kit with advised supplies.
• Monitor your health during and after travel, noting any symptoms.
• Seek in-person medical care if you experience red-flag symptoms.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns after the visit.

FAQs

Do I need a video visit if I am traveling to a low-risk area?

Even if your destination is considered low risk, a video visit can help review your health status and any updates on vaccines or medications. It’s a good opportunity to ask questions and get personalized advice.

How far in advance should I schedule my pre-trip counseling?

It’s best to schedule your visit at least 4 to 6 weeks before travel. Some vaccines require multiple doses or time to become effective, so early planning helps ensure full protection.

Can I get travel vaccines during a telemedicine visit?

Telemedicine visits can provide recommendations and prescriptions, but vaccines must be administered in person at a clinic or pharmacy. Your provider will guide you on where to get vaccinated locally.

What if I have a chronic illness?

Your provider will discuss how to manage your condition while traveling, including medication adjustments and precautions. Make sure to share detailed information about your health during the visit.

Is telemedicine safe for travel health advice?

Telemedicine is a convenient and effective way to get travel health counseling. However, it does not replace in-person care when physical exams or urgent treatment are needed.

Sources

1. Travelers' Health — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Travel Health — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Pre-Travel Health Advice — Mayo Clinic.
4. Travel Medicine: Prevention of Infectious Diseases in Travelers — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate local medical attention.