Seizures, hospitals, and blood tests, oh my!

[Luppy]

If you haven't guessed by now, I have ongoing medical woes that won't prevent me from walking, but that I have to prepare for. Are there are any people with seizure conditions out there who have walked the Camino Frances? Anyone who required a blood test? I will probably need to get a blood test by the time I reach Leon. Any advice for the medically challenged?

 

[lynnejohn]

Blood test for what?

lynne

 

[MichaelB10398]

Talk to your doctor or your hospital/clinic where you currently have your blood taken. They will often know how to arrange for the work to be done in Spain during your stay there. The medical practice in Spain is excellent and you will be able to have all your needs cared for.

Michael

 

[lynnejohn]

Just by way of explanation, I am not trying to learn about any of your medical conditions, but it depends what kind of bloodwork you need done (again, I don't need to know). The most important thing you can do is carry the appropriate information/medical alert, preferably in a formal document (outlining your history/condition) from your doctor (I'm sure you already know that). If you go to an private doctor or clinic, there will be a fee. Free medical care is available at the urgent centres, but if your need is not urgent I would not go there. As a user of the Spanish healthcare system several times, I can attest to its efficient, quality care.

lynne

 

[renegadepilgrim]

It would also be helpful to have any documentation about your medical history in Spanish, if you were to need medical care and were unable to speak for yourself. It's always helpful to have a medication list with dosages, allergies, medical history, and names/phone numbers of your doctors. I work in an ER in Oregon and we had a patient from Australia whose doctor was in contact with us through her visit. We even had to figure out how patient privacy laws worked internationally! It was very interesting.....either way, more information is always better than none when it's your health!

 

[Rebekah Scott]

most larger towns in Spain have a farmacia that has a medical technologist on hand qualified to draw blood and perform laboratory tests. Fees are quite reasonable. Look for the "Laboratorio Clinica" sign.

Reb.