Living In USA

When people move to a new, unfamiliar country, they are often quite concerned about what might happen if they get sick. This is an understandable fear because medical practices and the customs that surround illness differ, sometimes dramatically, from culture to culture. Even if the medical care you receive is excellent, as it usually is in this country, there is still discomfort because it is not what you are accustomed to, and because you may be far from people who would normally assist and comfort you. The information below is intended to help you understand the practice of medicine in the United States so that you can obtain care with as little apprehension as possible.

Before You Leave Home
The first step in obtaining medical care in a new country is to bring your family's health records with you, if possible. This provides your new physician with a complete history of past medical experience and may help you save on expensive tests or background studies. Also, have all necessary dental work done before you leave home; costs for dental care in the States are nearly as high as those for medical care, and insurance rarely covers all procedures.

If you wear eyeglasses or contact lenses, have an extra pair with you and be sure to bring a copy of your prescription. If you are on regular medication, it is a good idea to bring a copy of the prescription and information from your physician at home about the condition for which the medication is required.