Before you set off on your next adventure, take a moment to check in on your health.

A pre-holiday appointment with your GP is a simple way to ensure you’re ready to travel safely. From managing medications and updating asthma plans to ensuring you receive the right travel vaccinations, we help you prepare with confidence so your holiday can be as relaxing as you planned. 

What to Expect from a Pre-Holiday Health Check 

A pre-holiday health check isn’t just about ticking boxes; it’s about receiving personalised, practical support tailored to your health needs and travel plans. 

During your consultation, your doctor can: 

• Provide destination-specific advice on food and water safety, insect protection, and managing non-infectious risks like heat or altitude 
• Help prepare a travel health kit tailored to your itinerary and health conditions 
• Review any chronic conditions (like asthma or diabetes) to ensure you’re well-managed before departure 
• Flag any potential medication interactions with travel vaccines or antimalarial treatments 

Planning ahead gives your doctor time to assess your needs and recommend the right safeguards to keep you well while you’re away. 

Travel Vaccinations and Health Advice 

If you’re travelling internationally, it’s essential to discuss travel vaccinations with your GP well before you go. Ideally, schedule your pre-holiday health check 6 to 8 weeks before departure, as some vaccines require multiple doses or time to take effect. 

At Kardinia Health, we offer comprehensive Travel Medicine Consultations, which include: 

• Pre-travel health assessments 
• Vaccination advice based on your itinerary and risk profile 
• Preventative health tips for the road 
• Post-travel follow-up if needed 

We’re also an approved Yellow Fever vaccination provider for travellers heading to affected regions. 

Scripts, Medications and Documentation 

Before leaving, make sure you’ve got all the medication you need for the duration of your trip, plus some extra in case of delays.  

A pre-holiday health check is a good time to: 

• Refill prescriptions for chronic or recurring conditions 
• Request specific travel medications (e.g. antimalarials, altitude medication, or motion sickness tablets) 
• Obtain medical documentation if you need to travel with injectable medication or carry medication across borders 

Your GP can also advise you on how best to store and transport medications while travelling. 

Travelling with Asthma or Other Chronic Conditions 

If you or your child lives with asthma, preparing well in advance can help prevent travel-related flare-ups.  

During your pre-travel appointment, your doctor can: 

• Review your asthma management and update your Asthma Action Plan 
• Write a letter outlining your diagnosis and current medications 
• Recommend appropriate medications to take and how much to bring 
• Advice on travel insurance policies that adequately cover chronic conditions 

You should carry more asthma medication than you think you’ll need and always keep it in your carry-on luggage. If you’re heading to a new climate or planning physical activities, your GP can help you prepare for those changes. 

Book Your Pre-Holiday Health Check at Kardinia Health Medical Centre 

Before you pack your bags, take time to look after your health. A quick check-in with your GP now can save you from complications later.  

From travel vaccinations to asthma planning and prescription reviews, Kardinia Health Medical Centre in Belmont offers comprehensive pre-holiday health checks to help you travel safely and confidently. 

Call our friendly reception team on (03) 5202 9333 or head online to make an appointment with your GP today and travel well this summer.