? Helping Travellers Stay Healthy: What Clinics Should Know This August
Dear Partner Clinics,
August may be the tail end of summer, but still being a golden window for international health travel. Many patients take advantage of late-season holidays, school breaks, or lighter workloads to finally book their summer trip, and with that, a spike in outpatient appointment requests across popular destinations.
???? For GPs: What August Means in Your Practice
August brings not just sunshine and tourists—but also a distinct set of challenges for GPs working in travel-heavy regions. With high patient turnover, need of an English speaking doctor, and acute conditions that are often unfamiliar to the patient, your role becomes even more vital.
Here’s what’s worth keeping in mind this month:
?? Watch for Classic Summer Illnesses
Heat exhaustion, sunstroke, and dehydration are especially common in patients not acclimated to local weather. Tourists often underestimate the sun in Mediterranean and tropical climates. When a patient presents with vague fatigue, dizziness, or confusion—consider heat-related causes early.
?? Gastro Cases Spike in Hot Weather
Food borne illness is one of the top reasons travellers visit clinics in August. Mild gastroenteritis, traveller’s diarrhea, or post-meal stomach pain is often the trigger for booking. Many are worried about serious infections or need a fit-to-fly note—clear explanations and supportive care go a long way.
? Communication Is Key
Patients may not know local healthcare norms or even how to describe symptoms well in English. A bit more time for history-taking, use of diagrams, or Google Translate (if needed) can help reduce stress—for both sides.
? Medication Refills for Stranded Travellers
It’s common in August to see patients who’ve lost or run out of meds while travelling. Be prepared to handle chronic condition prescriptions (hypertension, diabetes, mental health) after quick verification. A short-term refill can be a big relief for someone far from home.
? Tips for Clinics: How to Make the Most of This Busy Month
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Ensure Easy Appointment Availability
Make sure your appointment slots are updated regularly on the Health4Travel platform, especially during weekends and holidays. Short-notice bookings are common for travellers who get sick unexpectedly. -
Highlight Language Options
Travellers are more likely to book when they know they can communicate easily. Health4Travel ensures access to English-speaking doctors. However, other languages can easily be listed in the service description online on the Health4Travel platform. Contact us for more info about this. -
Promote Important Services on Health4Travel
Services like walk-in consultations, telehealth and home (hotel) visits should be highlighted. Many travellers are looking for “quick, competent help”—make sure they know you offer that. -
Have Tourist Health Info Available in Reception
Simple flyers or signs in English (and other relevant languages) what ID is needed or simply information on how to protect yourself in the hot weather.
You’re not just treating a condition—you’re helping someone feel safe in an unfamiliar place. Thanks for being the first line of care for travellers who need reassurance and expert help during their journey.
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? Have Ideas or Needs?
Let us know if you’d like help updating your Partner Portal or promoting certain services more effectively. We’re here to support you in making the most of this high season.
Stay safe, stay prepared—and thank you for helping travellers get the care they need, wherever they are in the world.
Warm regards,
The Health4Travel Team
Contact us for questions/feedback/ideas.
