Finding a doctor when traveling
Has anyone had experience in finding a doctor when you are traveling? We are planning a trip to Orlando Florida in December and need to have labs done Monday Wednesday and Friday. If my husbands blood levels are too low we will need blood and or platelet transfusions. When visiting with our local oncologist they said to find a doctor and set up appointments and they would get in touch with them about my husbands cancer and treatment requirements. They do not offer to help find a doctor so how do we do that,
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Hi, I’ve needed bloodwork and infusions done while on vacation too, several times.
I called the nearest hospital to where I’m staying and asked for the Oncology Infusion department.
I explained the situation and the nurse said they do that all the time for snowbirds.
The infusion nurse then gave me the fax numbers so my doctor could send all the information and orders.
I would expect the hospitals in Orlando, because it’s such a high tourist area, would do the same.
At the infusion center, I had to register once as an outpatient just so all the important information was on file. So bring insurance and Medicare cards. A NP saw me first and then the RNs in the fusion center took over with blood draws and my infusions. Super easy. My Rituximab infusions and blood draws didn’t require having an appointment with an oncologist.
There are a couple of hospitals in Orlando. Orlando Health Regional Medical Center might be a good place to start. They have a concierge number to call. #321-841-9500
They can direct you to the right department.
https://www.orlandohealth.com/
I’m in Florida right now and just so you know, very few people wear masks or follow covid protocol. With your husband being immunocompromised make sure you take some precautions. Has your husband been vaccinated for Covid?
Thank you. This information is very helpful. Yes my husband has been vaccinated. Just has not been able to get the booster because of his low neutrophil count.
You’re welcome. And I thought of one more detail. Make sure you also take along a printed copy of the orders for your husband. Just in case… ☺️
A lot of us are in the same boat with having to wait on the booster. That’s why is so important for us to remain vigilant and take responsibility for our safety in this pandemic. I hope you have a great time in Florida. Not sure where you live, but right now back home in Wisconsin where I’m from, it’s snowing! Tee hee. ⛱ 🌞 The white sand looks pretty good!
I am originally from Wisconsin, but live permanent in SW Florida now. Covid is running wild again in Florida, and no mask or vaccination requirements exist. I hope it goes down soon again!
Just be aware that Orlando is way up north for us, and I can get cold there in the winter (around freezing). Bring warm clothing with you, to make sure you can be outside in the colder temperatures.