Can a Cancer Patient Travel To India For Medical Treatment?

Travelling may be essential for cancer patients under many conditions. In most cases, the travel may be needed for receiving treatment. With the most experienced and skilled health care providers spread across multiple hospitals and offices in the world, the specialists may recommend travelling to the best hospitals. Sometimes, patients living in remote area or a rural location with fewer medical facilities and services may require travelling for better treatment. Clinical trials require patients travelling for receiving the treatment.

Research reveals that India has the highest rate of medical tourism especially in the field of cancer treatments and cosmetic surgeries. Presence of trained doctors and offering treatment at lesser price without compromising on quality is one of the major reasons for cancer patients to travel to far off places.

Here are certain things to consider when travelling to India for cancer medical treatment:

Credentials

It is important to research well about the doctor and his credentials prior to travelling far off for treatment / surgery. You may encounter with untrained doctors who want to exploit you and make easy money by taking advantage of your condition.

Make Prior Arrangements

Make sure the location you chose for treatment has ample arrangements for handling post-surgery complications.

Pack Smart

If you are traveling for cancer care, focus on packing smart. The treatment may require you straying away from home for a long time. So start researching the best lodging services and know about the amenities they provide. The most important amenities you should look for include laundry, kitchenette, chemist, etc.

Prioritize Comfort

Regardless of whether you plan to travel by air, car, or public transportation, prioritize comfort. Here is a list of some important things to consider when packing:

Carry entertainment (magazine, book, tablet, phone etc.)
Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
Favorite music / calming
Meditation app
Favorite snack or drink / comfort food

Do not forget to pack your medications and medical equipment such as hot water bottle, comfort pillow, massager etc. Make sure all medications are in their original containers. Carry a list of all medications you need to take and dosage intake instructions.

In case, you are planning to travel via airline and public transportation, carry along doctor’s note that details your condition and medications. Always check present regulations to ensure the medication and medical devices are not prohibited. In many cases, the airlines or other transportation companies may refuse letting you board when the passenger looks ill without clarification.

Drink plenty of water while you travel. You should also take ample rest and breaks. Check the regulations about wearing any special protective equipment while travelling such as mask, disposable gloves etc.

Prepare for Emergencies

Patients should be prepared for unexpected emergencies. Some of these may include natural calamities such as fires, floods, hurricanes, snowstorms, etc. The recent public health pandemic (COVID-19) has been an eye-opener for many. Such situations can cause serious challenges for everyone, primarily travelers. Hence, you need to take out ample time to avoid these emergencies impact cancer care.

Preparation is Key

Travelling without preparation can be difficult especially for medical treatment. Patients should take appropriate steps to avoid or reduce potential problems. Traveling for cancer treatment requires special preparations such as carrying additional medication and supplies, wearing comfortable clothes, carrying phone charger, books, music etc. This is important to minimize overall stress levels and bring peace of mind.

It is advised to mark the location of services and facilities. This is important to be aware of these locations and facilities to handle any emergency that comes your way. Talk to your health care provider about things you would need prior to traveling for treatment.

Most people with cancer can travel without problems. Consulting with your medical practitioner will keep any potential complications away.

Post Bone Marrow / Stem Cell Transplant

There are many risks involved with travelling immediately after a bone marrow or stem cell transplant. Flying at this stage can put you to increased risk of infection. Doctors advise patients to wait for a minimum of 6 months post bone marrow or stem cell transplant before flying or travelling by other modes of transportation. This is because patients need to go through regular check-ups and blood transfusions (in some cases). It is safe to travel once blood count reaches normal levels (within a year of transplant). Speak to doctor about safe travel prior to booking the
trip.

Low Platelets

It is not recommended to fly when platelets (blood cells that help blood to clot) are low. Treatment for cancer can reduce platelet count, increasing risk of bleeding. Under such conditions, doctor might advise patients not to fly. Hence, it is important to check with the medical team prior to booking your flight.

Low RBC

Doctors advise not to fly when red blood cells are low. These cells contain haemoglobin (Hb) responsible for carrying oxygen around the body. Low levels of Hb can make individuals tired and breathless owing to inability of blood carrying ample amount of oxygen. Aeroplane cabins have lower air pressure and less oxygen making passenger’s breathing worse.

The Hb levels should not be lower than 8 g/dl before flying. So make sure you check this with your doctor. Safe flight with lower haemoglobin may be possible with ample oxygen levels during the flight (some airlines also offer oxygen to passengers). Some may also allow passengers to carry their own oxygen. The idea is to know airline’s policy on oxygen.

Consult your doctor before travelling to India for cancer treatment if you:

Have had any kind of surgery lately, including keyhole surgery (laparoscopy)
Have had a bone marrow or stem cell transplant in the past 6-12 months
Have been tested for low level of platelets or red blood cells
Get breathless even after light exercise, such as walking up stairs

If you are fit to fly but have a weak immune system some destinations might not be ideal for you.
Check with your doctor or travel health clinic before booking.