International Travel

Folks:
Had mine installed a month ago and will soon be traveling internationally on a consultancy.

Any constructive advice most welcome on all aspects to be expected from security checks to what to watch out for etc...

thanks

3 Comments

Easy

by pioxen - 2014-08-26 09:08:31

Make sure you have your temp ID paperwork with you or the Pacer ID card from your mfg. Some airports have the scanners (the ones you stand in a raise your hands). Place all your items in the xray tray and then simply go through the scanner. If your airports don't have a scanner, just tell them you have a pacemaker and need a "male or female assist". They'll give you a quick patdown and you're on your way...no problems!

Depends on the Country

by NiceNiecey - 2014-08-28 02:08:04

Poixen gave good advice. In the US, security doesn't seem to care about our PM ID cards but other countries do. For that reason, I always carry mine. Wear support stockings, move around a lot in the plane, and have fun!

Languages?

by SaraTB - 2014-08-28 05:08:19

If you're travelling to a non-English speaking country, find out how to say "pacemaker" in the local language - it helped me a lot when trying to explain why they wouldn't want me to go through the metal detector in Japan, for example.
Bear in mind, the metal detector shouldn't bother YOU, but the PM will set off the alarm, and then the security people get all jumpy - it seems to go smoother if you tell them as you get to the machine "I have a pacemaker" - I pat it at the same time - and they ask you to wait until they can get someone to give you a pat-down.
You can go through the scanner (in fact, in the UK, you must, if sent to it - no option to refuse) safely. Remember to keep an eye on your belongings, or get a companion to do so if you have one.
The security people are all pretty used to PMs now, and I find if I initiate a conversation "how many PM people have you checked today?" for example, it keeps it friendly and courteous.
I tend to travel with a copy of the print out of my settings, from my doctor, just in case anything happens and I need to have it checked. Probably over cautious, but it doesn't take up any space, so why not?
Good luck with your travels, and don't let your PM hold you back!

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Hi, I am 47 and have had a pacemaker for 7 months and I’m doing great with it.