Take the package list to your own doctor and ask: (1) which screenings you're due for, (2) which extras to skip, (3) whether they'll review results and scans from abroad, (4) whether they can see you soon after you return, and (5) whether there's any reason you shouldn't fly, be sedated or have contrast dye.
Why start at home
Your doctor knows your history, your medications and which tests you've already had. Ten minutes with them can save you money, avoid unnecessary tests, and make follow-up much easier when you get back.
The five questions
1. "Which screenings am I due for, given my age and history?"
Start from what's recommended for you. If you're insured, many of these may be free at home, in-network. (See our guide to the ACA paradox.)
2. "Which extras on this package would you skip, and why?"
Bring the package list. Ask specifically about tumor markers, CT scans and whole-body imaging. (See our over-screening guide.)
3. "Will you review my results and scans from abroad? In what format?"
Most doctors want a written report in English and the scan files in DICOM format, not just printed images. Some may repeat certain tests; that's their decision.
4. "If something is found, can you see me soon after I'm back?"
Book a follow-up appointment before you leave. It's much easier than trying to get one after a worrying result.
5. "Is there any reason I shouldn't fly, be sedated, or have contrast dye?"
That matters for endoscopy with sedation, some imaging, and long flights, especially if you have heart, lung or kidney conditions, take blood thinners, or are pregnant.
Printable checklist
Before my checkup abroad
- Screenings I'm due for: ______________________
- Extras my doctor suggests skipping: ______________________
- Format my doctor needs: ☐ English report ☐ DICOM files ☐ Lab values with ranges
- Follow-up appointment booked for: ____ / ____ / ______
- Any reason not to fly, be sedated or have contrast: ______________________
- Medications to bring and how to take them when fasting: ______________________
What we don't do
We don't give medical advice or decide which tests you need. We help you ask the right questions and get your results home in a usable form.
Please note. General information, not medical advice.
Reviewed at least every three monthsNo paid placementsInformation, not medical adviceOur editorial standards
Joe Yang, PhD, Economics. Joe Yang holds a PhD in economics from the University of Washington. For four years Joe evaluated the costs and savings of US health programs for insurers and employers at a health-analytics company, and before that studied pricing and demand as an economist at Amazon and a data scientist at Oracle. These guides apply the same discipline to a simpler question: what care really costs, and where.
