Travel and packing tips:

Though it is our intention to offer as many possible suggestions and helpful tips as we can, travel arrangements are the responsibility of the patient and their family. We will help in any way we can, but because of the wide variety of ways to travel, and each family's needs being unique, we are not able to manage your travel plans for you. 

TRANSPORTATION:  Remember to make all your shuttle arrangements.  See the shuttle page for details.

PROPER ID - a passport (or proof that you have applied)  is required as of Feb 1 2010.   Be prepared to show your identity to return to the US.  Currently the border patrol is allowing patients to cross the border with just a copy of the passport application receipt (proof that you applied), your certified birth certificate, and your driver's license.   

MEALS:  DO NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING for at least 10 hours prior to your surgery! If you have already done so, please let Dr. Levi or Dr. Perez know before your surgery. This could be a life or death issue, so please adhere to the nothing by mouth rule.  You may have 1/2 cup black coffee during the day, if you cannot tolerate numerous hours without eating/drinking but you must let the doctor know.  If you have medical issues, please call the doctor so he can assist you with your eating plan.

PAIN - comfort items to consider (not mandatory):

• a small pillow to hold against your incision post op

• loose clothing / shoes to wear home

• extra pain meds in case you need them (Tylenol PM etc, gas-ex) ASK THE DOCTOR BEFORE TAKING ANY OUTSIDE MEDICATIONS.  They may adversely interact with the meds we will give you to take home.

• loose fitting/slip on shoes - your feet may swell and you will not be able to bend and tie shoes right after surgery.

AIR TRAVEL:  Request a wheelchair at the airport.  Many airports are huge, and they will be happy to provide assistance from gate to gate. They will also allow special boarding for post op patients & possibly other amenities. Let them know at that time that you purchase your ticket that you will be post op and require assistance on your return flight.

CAR TRAVEL:  It is imperative that you read the driving instructions on the 'location' page for details about taking your own car. You must stop and stretch your legs every couple of hours going home, and break your long trip down into a few hours per day of driving.

Driving Tips  

TAXES/INSURANCE -  Keep all travel receipts. Mileage, travel expenses, and possibly medical bills MAY be written off as a tax deductions. (please check with your tax preparer for more details) or used for reimbursement from your insurance company.

PREP FOR SURGERY  - we will send you a notice appx 5-7 days prior to your surgery date with full instructions - but please note that all finger/toenails must be 100% natural.  Also, no jewelry (on any part of your body) can be worn during surgery.  So please keep this in mind when preparing for your trip. 

Bedding:  Blankets and pillows ARE provided for your guest (just ask if you don't receive them). Most rooms are equipped with a sleeping couch.  There is room for 1 guest to sleep comfortably in your room.

Toiletries: Bring your own toiletries (shampoo, razor, toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc). You will need to shower  before they release you.  Towels are provided but if you prefer bath rags and hand towels you will need to bring your own.  If there is anything not in your room, just ask, someone will assist you with it.

Medications:  If you are on prescription medications, bring them with you.  They must be in original prescription bottle with your name on it.

Food - The hospital will provide food for the patient and ONE guest. You may want to bring snack foods for travel and your room for your guest.  All water provided to the patient and guest is bottled water - no need to bring your own.  There are places in town to eat, and someone on our staff will assist you with directions or help.  Vending machines are available for your guest - patients must get the doctor's permission before you eat or drink anything.  Pesos are required for the machines - you may be able to change your coins for pesos at the hospital -ask the doctor or someone to assist you. Language barriers may make eating out difficult for some, but many have found it an enjoyable adventure, so ask for assistance from our staff if needed.

Entertainment - Most rooms come with a tv/dvd combo. You may want to bring something for your guest to watch while you sleep. We do have cable and a few English channels;  most are in Spanish (but many have English subtitles). Any other materials needed for your guest to pass the time will need to be brought with you (magazines, books, cards etc). You should purchase these in advance, there is not a gift shop at the hospital. We do have wireless internet in the lobby and in some of the patient rooms.

Make Memories - bring your camera, and take plenty of pictures! Camcorders are also welcome, even in surgery. If your spouse is not with you in the OR, one of the nurses MAY (if we are not too busy)  be able to take pics for you.

Souvenirs can be purchased in town or one of the other small towns nearby before or after your surgery. You can ask our shuttle driver to take you.  There are fees for extra shuttling - but they are minimal.

Sightseeing/vacationing:  Talk to Marcos (shuttle manager) when you make your shuttle arrangements about places to visit in or near Rio Bravo.  On the US side of the border, South Padre Island is a wonderful place to visit.  See the links/sitemap page for more info on South Padre Island and many other travel related tips.      

Location 

As with any hospital anywhere, we cannot be responsible for items lost or left in your room or unattended.  All unnecessary valuables (jewelry, electronics, etc) should be left at home. Do not leave cash or valuables in your room or your vehicle during your travels, and please be especially careful at airports. 

If you have any questions, please email!!  Thank you!