Flying With Medical Concerns

Flying with Medical Concerns

One of my favorite websites to visit regarding regulations in flying on airlines today is the Transportation Security Administration website: www.tsa.gov. There is a world of information on there especially regarding what you can and cannot bring, along with some valuable tips.

One of the questions we get, and I notice that it is one that TSA has to field, regards flying with “my medicine”. Taken directly from their website, I'll see if this doesn't answer your questions; 

• It is not necessary to present your medication to, or notify an officer about any medication you are traveling with unless it is in liquid form.
• Medication in liquid form is allowed in carry-on bags in excess of 3.4 ounces in reasonable quantities for the flight. It is not necessary to place medically required liquids in a zip-top bag. However, you must tell the officer that you have medically necessary liquids at the start of the screening checkpoint process. Medically required liquids will be subject to additional screening that could include being asked to open the container.
• You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened.
• You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It is highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.
• TSA does not require passengers to have medications in prescription bottles, but states have individual laws regarding the labeling of prescription medication with which passengers need to comply.
• Medication is usually screened by X-ray; however, if a passenger does not want a medication X-rayed, he or she may ask for a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel.
• Nitroglycerin tablets and spray (used to treat episodes of angina in people who have coronary artery disease) are permitted and have never been prohibited.

In a recent article by Christopher Elliott in the Dallas Morning News, there was some real good information for those folks who travel as diabetics. The TSA allows diabetes-related supplies and medication through security checkpoints once they've been screened. Passengers should declare these items and separate them from other belongings before the screening process begins.

If you are traveling with an insulin pump, it would be a good idea to check with the device manufacturer for airport screening recommendations. TSA might try to scan the pump, but it may or may not be safe.

Another suggestion was made to take additional precautions by asking your doctor for a statement saying you are diabetic and that it's medically necessary to carry syringes and other supplies in your personal carry-ons. One person suggested that you wear a medical bracelet that has details of your condition....just in case you get insulin deficient.

Hope these tips help; go to the TSA website for a lot more!! Or give the advisors at The Travel Factory a call for help in manufacturing the vacation of your dreams. We exist to help!!! Find us at 4150 Southwest Drive at the Plaza at Park Central, or call at 698-1421.