Our first advice is to talk to your doctor and insurance provider about your travel dates and request a travel supply of medications. This means that you should bring enough medications to last you the entire time you are abroad, especially since it won't be possible to get US prescriptions filled in foreign countries. Remember to carry them on the plane, with the original packaging that has the actual prescription on it.
Allergies
If you suffer of severe allergies severe and require an epi-pen, we recommend bringing at least two; one to have on you at all times and one to leave in your room in case the first one gets used.
Mental Health
If you have a therapist/counselor back home and they can continue to do virtual sessions while you are abroad, this would be ideal, as they already know your history and you are already comfortable with them.
However, we understand that many counselors must abide by state licensure laws so if they cannot serve you while abroad, we are offering a service called Let's Talk, which allows you to sign up for 30 minute virtual sessions with our licensed counselor. While not meant to be utilized on a regular basis, they will be a good resource should you need to talk to someone.
If you find that you need someone on a more regular basis, please talk to your Site Director who can direct you to a local counselor. Mental health is insured up to $1000 USD for outpatient care as part of the CISI medical and accident insurance included in the CIS Abroad fees..
Past Injuries
If past injuries or medical conditions affect you today, especially if navigating hilly, uneven, city streets and stairs, please write to your program's International Operations contact person (see Staff section) to let us know. We can work with you to plan for your comfort during local excursions in advance.