Have Nurse, Will Travel

One of the sad truths of life is that many people save throughout their entire careers for retirement, dreaming of the opportunity to travel; only to be stricken with an infirmity of some sort that prohibits travel when that day arrives.

Traveling nurse companion services can be the turning point for people in this situation. Several companies have emerged to provide a valuable service for anyone who is unable to travel due to health issues. Nurses who are carefully matched for compatibility pair with disabled or infirm individuals to accompany them on travels in a medically safe manner.

One such company is based in Colorado, called Trip Nurse. Its beginnings were humble; accompanying people with health concerns as they traveled to see family members. The idea grew as more and more people saw the opportunity to realize their travel dreams despite their health issues through having an LPN travel along with them in case of an emergency. Whether travel includes passive and relaxing vacations or more action packed activities such as fishing and skiing, nurses are available to travel along with vacationers. While Trip Nurse has its base in Colorado, it is projected that within a few short years there will be offices nationwide.

Accessible Journeys in Pennsylvania also recognized the need for this service. Pioneering the movement for healthcare companion services back in 1985, this company provides a wide variety of services. Mainly utilized by wheelchair bound patients who seek cruise vacations, the company matches traveling clients to their companion, who is capable of administering or overseeing medications, bathing, dressing and feeding their charge.

Costs for this invaluable service can vary depending on the duties required, but can be as low as $300 per day and go up to $1,000 per day for round the clock care. In addition, the client is responsible for the nurse’s travel, meal and lodging costs as necessary.

Nurses that participate in these services must have certain qualifications to be considered. They must enjoy travel, be comfortable flying and driving in diverse conditions, be committed to caring for their patient, and be licensed to work within the US.

No one should be deprived of travel simply because of health issues and, with the emergence of such valuable services as Trip Nurse, Accessible Journeys and more, fewer will be.