Preparing for Medical Travel with Mobility or Companion Needs

Reduced mobility is more specific than simply needing a wheelchair. Explain whether the patient can walk independently, use steps, transfer between bed and seat, sit for a long period and use a toilet without help. Include pain, fall risk, cognitive or communication needs. Concrete information allows each provider to assess what it can actually support.

Record the type, size, weight, battery and folding method of mobility equipment. Powered wheelchairs, oxygen devices and some medicines have separate aviation rules. Confirm directly with the airline and apply early. Kangqiao can relay needs but cannot approve carriage or replace a clinician's fitness-to-fly assessment.

Ask the hospital about campus routes, accessible entrances, transfer onto examination equipment, toilets and companion rules. Ask accommodation about lifts, door widths, bathrooms and beds. Ask transport providers about boarding method and space for equipment and luggage. A room labelled accessible still needs item-by-item confirmation.

Companions should divide responsibility for documents and medicines, recording clinical explanations, payment and transport. One person may not be able to do everything at once. For complex needs, ask whether nursing or other professional support is required and confirm the provider's qualifications, scope and charges.

Before departure, walk through the route from home to the airport, aircraft, immigration, vehicle, accommodation and hospital. Allow extra time for medicine, charging, meals and toilets. If your functional ability changes, reconfirm the plan immediately. A medical emergency should still be taken first to local medical services.