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After treatment and remission

What to bring to a doctor abroad

A well-prepared pack for a consultation abroad saves time, money and repeat tests.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A suitcase with a document pouch.
Figure 1.Medical pouch — What to bring to a doctor abroad

01Short answer

The core pack: a one- or two-page medical summary (in English or the centre’s language), pathology and bone marrow reports, genetic and MRD results, recent blood tests, an imaging disc, a list of treatments and medicines, allergies, transfusion requirements and transplant details. Sometimes pathology slides or blocks are needed; the hospital arranges sending them. Carry medicines in their original packaging, with a copy of the prescription and enough supply.

02Simple explanation

A summary, translated.

Reports: pathology, genetics, MRD.

Discs and slides if needed.

Medicines in original packaging.

Everything in hand luggage.

03Scientific explanation

Slide review: many centres confirm the diagnosis with their own pathologists.

Format: images are usually accepted in DICOM format on a disc or by secure link.

Medicine rules: some countries require special permission to bring certain medicines; check with the embassy.

04What happens in the body?

Medical pouch

Documents, medicines and, if needed, a cool pack in a separate bag.

Slides and disc

Pathology material is sent between hospitals.

A slide box and a disc.
Figure 2.Slides and disc — What to bring to a doctor abroad

Translation

Keep the original and the translation together.

Pages in two languages.
Figure 3.Translation — What to bring to a doctor abroad

Question list

Write down what you want to ask at the consultation.

05Your travel pack

Four steps.

Ask — What does the centre need?1AskWhat does the centre need?
Gather — Assemble the pack.2GatherAssemble the pack.
Translate — Key documents.3TranslateKey documents.
Hand luggage — Keep it with you.4Hand luggageKeep it with you.
CompleteNothing is forgotten.
ContinuityThe doctor abroad sees the full picture.
SafetyYour medicines are with you.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
Medical pouchDocuments, medicines and, if needed, a cool pack in a separate bag.
Slides and discPathology material is sent between hospitals.
TranslationKeep the original and the translation together.
Question listWrite down what you want to ask at the consultation.

07Key terms

Medical summary
A short description of illness and treatment.
Pathology block
A paraffin block holding a tissue sample.
DICOM
The file format for scans.
Official translation
A certified translation.
Prescription copy
A document showing the medicine was prescribed.

08Key points

  • Ask the centre for a list.
  • Have the summary translated.
  • Arrange for slides to be sent.
  • Carry medicines in original packaging.
  • Keep everything in hand luggage.

09Frequently asked questions

Should I translate every document?

Usually the summary and key reports are enough; ask the centre.

Can I carry the slides myself?

Sometimes, but they are often sent by courier between hospitals.

Can medicines cause problems at customs?

Some can; bring a prescription copy and a doctor’s letter.

Does this information replace medical advice?

No. This is general education; only your treating doctor can assess your situation.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Should I translate every document?

  2. Can I carry the slides myself?

  3. Can medicines cause problems at customs?

  4. Does this information replace medical advice?

My questions

12Sources

  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Medical Tourism: Getting Medical Care in Another Country
  2. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Personal Health Records
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Treatment
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Follow-Up Medical Care
  5. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Follow-Up Care After Cancer Treatment
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Cancer Survivorship
  7. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Hyperthyroidism
  8. American Thyroid Association. Thyroid Nodules
  9. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Peripheral Neuropathy
  10. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). Seizures
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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