By Kristen Montez, Director of Legal & Regulatory Services, Satori World Medical

A misconception about medical travel is what I call the “doc won’t touch me myth”. Some U.S. patients seeking medical treatment abroad are concerned their U.S.-based providers won’t see them for post-op care upon their return. I am not sure why this myth exists but I can easily dispel it.

As a former medical malpractice defense attorney, many providers are more than willing to treat patients who are injured, weak and sick as the result of another provider’s negligence. The negligent providers practiced right here in the U.S. and their patients that filed suit sustained significant injury. However, many of these patients sought care by other providers after the negligence occurred. They simply had to in order to heal. Based on my review of the medical records when defending the cases, these providers treated the injured patients without hesitance and often improved their quality of life exceeding the original dismal prognoses.

If these providers are willing to treat a victim of medical negligence, your U.S.-based provider will most likely treat you after you return from receiving treatment abroad. To alleviate any concern about receiving treated when you return, Satori World Medical always schedules your follow-up appointment with your U.S.-based provider—before you even board the plane to receive treatment abroad. So you can be rest assured you will receive the follow-up care you require from a more than willing U.S.-based provider.

To read all my legal perspective blog posts, click here.

By Kevin Poling, Director of Travel & Patient Services, Satori World Medical

While the winter months attract many tourists interested in outdoor sports, such as snowboarding, ice skating and skiing, summer in Montreal, Canada is one of the optimal months in which to visit. Spring, though can sound enticing, is the least ideal as the snow is beginning to melt and many outdoor attractions are still closed, however this is their low season and you will find very reasonable accommodation rates.  High season in usually late Spring to early Fall and also from Christmas to New Year’s. Hotels will most likely charge the highest rates during these months.

For those who visit in the summer, the temperature in Montreal is usually around 80 degrees Fahrenheit and can include a few thunderstorms.  Fall can also be very beautiful as the weather is agreeable as the autumn colors emerge.  During the winter months, temperatures can be as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit, so always dress warm and in layers to combat the cold, windy weather. Boots, a wool coat, a hat and scarves are items you should pack for winter in Montreal.

Montrealers, though always dressed well, can also dress casually especially in the summer months. Pack lightweight, cotton clothing for the summer.  It is best to always have a jacket with you, as temperatures are known to drop randomly, even in the summer.  For business, two-piece suits are the norm for both men and women.

To read more of my travel tips, please click here.

Happy Travels,

Kevin

By Kevin Poling, Director of Travel & Patient Services, Satori World Medical

While in Manila, as with most countries you visit, try not to wear lavish jewelry or carry any unnecessary electronic devices while walking through the city. Also, be alert of pickpockets and thieves on motor vehicles. When it comes to water, it is best to only drink bottled water and avoid ice in your drinks. It is also recommended to visit your doctor before you depart, as vaccinations for Malaria, hepatitis, typhoid, and tuberculosis could be necessary. Make sure to wear sunscreen and take insect repellent as the Philippines has tropical climate and can get humid. 

As far as currency exchange, it is best to utilize foreign-exchange bureaus located in the malls, the business district, or hotels, as oftentimes banks will not exchange money unless you have an account with them.  ATMS are located throughout malls and close to banks.  Typically, there is a 12% tax added to meals and most purchases, while a nice tip for waiters and taxi drivers is between P20 and P50. For more credit card tips when going out of the country, click here.

With the hot and humid climate it is best to pack light, cotton apparel and casual, light-weight clothing for business. The prime months to visit are between mid-December to mid-May because that is off-season for typhoons.  However, always be prepared for the rain, as Manila’s weather patterns can vary. The temperature in Manila varies throughout the year, from a low 75 to a high of 99 degrees Fahrenheit.

Safe Travels,

Kevin

By Kevin Poling, Director of Travel & Patient Services, Satori World Medical

When visiting a foreign country, it is important to know their etiquette as to not accidentally offend or disrespect the locals. There is a great emphasis placed upon remaining cool and calm in the Thai culture. If one expresses irritation or discontentment, it is seen in bad taste and will essentially lower one’s opinion of the person.  Consequently, if a Thai is offended by something that is said, the typical response will be to smile and utter mai pen rai which translated means “Never mind”.  Additionally, do not intentionally mock or disrespect Buddhism or the Monarchy as it will result in a strong feeling of discomfort.

Furthermore, the head is seen as the most valuable part of the body whereas the feet are viewed as having the least value. Therefore, certain gestures pertaining to these parts of the body can be considered rude or disrespectful.  For example, touching another’s head is particularly rude, along with pointing or touching something with the foot.  Resting your feet on a chair or sitting positioned with your feet pointing directly to another person, will be received negatively as well.  As you will see, Thais greet each other with a slight bow with their palms together in front of the chest.  This is called wai and can be inappropriate in certain situations, like in the case of someone delivering a service.  Therefore, is it best to wait until one bows to you instead greeting a Thai with a wai immediately. 

For dining tips while in Bangkok, Thailand, click here: http://www.satoriworldmedical.com/blog/2012/01/dining-tips-while-in-bangkok-thailand/

To read all my travel tips, click here: http://www.satoriworldmedical.com/blog/category/travel-tips/

Safe Travels,

Kevin

By Kevin Poling, Director of Travel & Patient Services, Satori World Medical

While in Thailand, don’t forget to try their world-famous cuisine ranging from noodles and soups to green, red, and yellow curries.  If you are enjoying a walk through the city, food stalls are readily available where you can purchase bowls of curries, rice and fish.  On the other hand, if you are looking for a delicious upscale meal, there are a variety of haute cuisine restaurants that will include French, Italian, Japanese, Korean or Indian cuisines.  Some tasty local Thai favorites include tom yam kung, a hot and sour prawn dish, and pad thai, fried noodles. 

Many times, when you think of Thai food, you think spicy.  However, if you are unable to handle spice, don’t discount Thai food altogether.   Many Thais are aware of the Western’s sensitivity to spice and will eliminate or decrease the level of spice if you order a meal mai phet (without spice).   If you enjoy spice, then you will most likely see the phrik chili or the extremely hot pepper, phrik khii nuu, included in your dishes which will add a spark of flavor to your adventurous pallet. Typically, Thais snack throughout the day which means that you will always be able to access a variety of foods at all times.  However, normally lunch is served between 11:30-1:00PM and dinner between 6:00 and 9:00PM, closely resembling our meal times here in the U.S.

Safe Travels,

Kevin

By Ron Johnson, M.D., F.A.C.S, Chief Medical Officer, Satori World Medical

With an eventful holiday schedule filled with family gatherings, work parties, traveling and gift shopping, it can be difficult to stay healthy during this busy season. Below are a few tips that can keep you healthy this winter.

1.       Avoid overeating

The holiday season is the easiest time to overindulge in high calorie meals and sugary treats. Before attending a holiday party, eat a healthy snack (like whole-wheat pita bread and hummus or sliced fruit with almond butter) at home to avoid overeating at the gathering. Once at dinner, eat slowly and savor each bite. It can take up to 20 minutes for the food to settle and to feel satisfied. If you are going to get second helpings, fill your plate with just vegetables and salad. 

2.       Plan time for exercise

Although winter schedules are usually much busier with holiday parties and family events, try to maintain a regular exercise schedule. Bundle up and go for a walk after dinner to view your neighborhood’s holiday lights and decorations, or grab a loved one and go to your local ice rink for a fun workout. Combine a holiday shopping trip with exercise by walking every floor of your favorite indoor mall. Exercising regularly throughout winter and the holidays will make your New Year’s fitness resolution much easier to attain.

3.       Beware of drinks

Alcohol consumption can cause food cravings. Limit yourself to 1-2 low-calorie alcoholic drinks (wine, light beer or champagne) and try to avoid the eggnog – it can have as much as 11 grams of saturated fat and 400 calories per drink!

4.       Get the flu shot

Holiday celebrations bring you in close contact with lots of family members and friends. The best way to prevent influenza is getting a yearly flu shot.

Wishing you and your families a healthy holiday season,

Dr. Ron Johnson

By Kevin Poling, Director of Travel & Patient Services, Satori World Medical

The busiest travel time of the year is approaching, so I wanted to provide 5 tips to make your holiday travel easy and stress-free.

1. Be Flexible: Being flexible in your arrival and departure days can save you a lot of money. Try not to book your departure and return flights on peak days, like Friday-Monday. For the lowest airfare, try booking your flight two to three days before and after the holiday itself.
2. Arrive & Check-In Early: The holidays are peak traveling times, so arrive at the airport early. I recommend arriving 2 hours prior to departure time for domestic flights and 3-4 hours for international flights. It is recommended to leave even earlier if you are flying with children or bringing a lot of luggage. Holidays are stressful traveling times, so arrive early then relax once you are at your gate with a good book and a warm drink.
3. Take the Non-Stop Morning Flight: Taking a non-stop flight, or a flight with the fewest number of connections, will minimize delays. Also, flights that take off in the early morning are usually delayed less often than those that take off in the afternoon and evenings. For more useful flying tips click here.
4. Pack Wisely – Gifts: Fly with unwrapped gifts, just in case it needs to be opened and inspected by security. Also, wrapped gifts crinkle easily in a suitcase and can fall apart by the time you reach your destination. Try packing collapsible gift bags and tissue paper in your suitcase, instead of wrapping paper, and wrap presents upon arrival at your destination. By shipping gifts via USPS or UPS, you can save time and avoid high baggage fees.
5. Pack Wisely – Food: If you plan on bringing your favorite holiday food items to your destination, double check with TSA’s Traveling With Food Guide first. Many holiday food items such as cranberry sauce, gravy, jams, wine and dressings may not be brought on your carry-on bag and should be checked or shipped. However, solid foods like pies, meats and breads are all permitted.

Wishing you and your families a very happy holiday season!

Kevin Poling

Today is World Heart Day! World Heart Day was created to inform people around the world that heart disease and stroke are the world’s leading cause of death. Over 17 million people die from cardiovascular diseases each year, representing 30 percent of all global deaths.

Compelling evidence indicates that the following strategies are effective in preventing cardiovascular diseases:

1. Do not smoke or use tobacco – Smoking greatly increases the risk of developing coronary artery disease by 50 percent or more. Just one year after you stop smoking, your risk of heart disease drops dramatically.
2. Eat a heart-healthy diet that limits fat and salt intake – Eat foods that are low in saturated fat, cholesterol and salt. Try incorporating more whole grains, beans, nuts and fish to your diet and limiting red meat, dairy products and solid fats (butter and margarine).
3. Have an active lifestyle and keep a healthy weight – Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes every day. Try taking the stairs instead of the elevator or go for a brisk walk on your lunch break. Don’t forget that everyday activities and chores, like cleaning the house and walking the dog count toward your 30 minutes a day physical activity.
4. Limit alcohol intake – Drink alcohol in moderation and no more than 1-2 drinks a day.
5. Get yearly checkups – Schedule blood pressure and cholesterol levels checks regularly so you know exactly what measures to take every year to maintain a healthy heart.
6. Encourage stress-free moments – To help relieve stress, take regular breaks while working, stick to a regular sleep schedule, relax to soothing music or take a yoga class.

Don’t forget to consult your physician before starting a new diet or exercise regimen. Find out more information about World Heart Day on their website: http://www.world-heart-federation.org/index.php?id=123

By Kevin Poling, Director of Travel, Satori World Medical

One of the advantages of traveling to a foreign country is exploring the unique regional cuisine. However, some travelers may not be used to the local water and gastronomy. Below are a few general tips to avoid experiencing any food borne illness on your trip.

1. Bring your own food. Healthy eating starts even before you arrive at your destination. Bring snacks from home to avoid the high sodium airline food. Pack a few solid snacks like fruits, trail mix and energy bars in your carry-on bag.
2. Only drink properly sealed bottled beverages. Also, avoid getting ice in your drinks.
3. Wash your hands often. Wash your hands before and after every meal. Carry anti-bacterial hand sanitizer with you wherever you go, just in case there is no sink and soap nearby.
4. Beware of fresh fruits and raw vegetables. Try to eat produce that can be peeled, such as a banana, and make sure to wash and peel any fruits or vegetables you consume.
5. Eat cooked foods. To be safe, order food that has been cooked at a high temperature and avoid eating raw dishes such as seafood.
6. Look for a high turnover rate at restaurants. Stick to eating at crowded restaurants and street vendors that have lots of patrons. This is usually a sign that the food being served is freshly prepared and of good quality.

Happy travels,

Kevin

By Kevin Poling, Director of Travel, Satori World Medical

The most common questions I get asked when it comes to flying are: When is the best time to fly? Which seats have the most legroom? How early do I have to arrive at the airport?  Below are a few answers to those frequently asked questions, as well as some helpful tips to reduce your chances of encountering problems when flying.

• Fly in the morning. Typically, the least expensive and less delayed flights are the first flights out in the morning and red-eye flights. When choosing a flight that departs early morning, there is less likely to be a significant delay, when compared to an afternoon flight, which is a preferred time to fly. Once the air traffic systems experiences problems and delays, the domino effect can continue throughout the entire day.
• Reserve a good seat. Emergency exit row seats usually offer the most legroom and depending on the plane, “bulkhead seats” (seats that are directly behind a wall or curtain) can be slightly more spacious, since there is no passenger reclining their seat in front of you. If you want to experience the smoothest possible flight, reserve a seat towards the front of the cabin. Turbulence, as well as engine noise, is usually greater in the back of the aircraft.
• Arrive at the airport early. The general rule-of-thumb is to arrive at the airport for a domestic flight 60 minutes prior to the departure time if you are not checking baggage and 90 minutes if you are. Try to arrive 2 hours early when flying to international destinations. It is recommended to leave even earlier if you are flying with children, bringing a lot of luggage, or traveling during peak holiday seasons.
• Plan enough time between flights. It is tempting to book a connecting flight with the shortest layover, but make sure to leave enough time to exit the aircraft and make it to the other gate, which can be at the opposite end of the airport. To be safe, it is recommended to leave about an hour to an hour and a half between flights.

You can read more useful flying and travel tips here.

Happy Travels,

Kevin