Current Health Conditions
We strongly encourage all travelers currently in treatment for chronic health conditions (such as anxiety, asthma, Crohn's disease, concussion, depression, diabetes, eating disorder, etc.), and especially those on prescription medications, to use the GeoBlue Pre-departure Program prior to departure to discuss managing their conditions abroad.
If you are currently on a prescribed medication, please review how to obtain sufficient quantities of your prescription medication.
Impact of location
Changes in air quality, elevation, diet, climate and geography/topography as well as stress factors related to culture and language can exacerbate symptoms of pre-existing health conditions.
Regular treatment or therapies
Travelers who require regular medical care, including counseling, blood work, physical therapy, allergy shots, etc., can continue such treatment abroad, but the GeoBlue staff needs to know this in advance of departure to locate the most convenient and reputable clinic or provider.
Longer-term travelers who are in treatment for a mental health condition may wish to review information developed by Northwestern's Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) on mental health abroad.
Pre-departure Program (new in 2023)
For students with current (pre-existing) health conditions, GeoBlue offers an opportunity to meet directly with a medical clinician before you travel to discuss managing your physical or mental health condition abroad. You can access this confidential service directly by completing the questionnaire linked to the GeoBlue Pre-departure flyer. Read the flyer and the commonly asked questions to learn more. Once abroad, you can connect with the same clinician if you face challenges putting your health management plan into action.
The GeoBlue staff will encourage student travelers to disclose their condition to a study abroad adviser (if applicable), faculty or staff advisor, program director, trip leader, and/or the Office of Global Safety and Security (OGSS), so all parties can collaborate on a medical contingency plan in case difficulties arise abroad.