By Nanci Dixon
We just finished a bucket list tour of Washington, D.C. But all of a sudden, three days before the mostly walking tour started, I could barely hobble. I knew it was plantar fasciitis acting up big time (again). But worse. I needed a doctor and probably a steroid shot, too, but we were 2,300 miles away from my doctor! So, now what? How did I find a doctor while RVing?
Google to the rescue!
Thank you, Google! I started looking for urgent care, hospitals, and podiatrists near me. I called urgent cares and they suggested that I call hospital emergency rooms. I did that next, and they said to wait until Monday and call doctors’ offices nearby. On Monday, I went down the list and left messages until I finally found someone who gave me several suggestions for doctors in the area who might be able to help. I have learned from past experience that doctors are seldom aware of doctors in places outside their local area.
I was able to get an appointment the next afternoon. I then realized that I had none of my recent medical records or X-rays, and I certainly didn’t have enough time to get those before the appointment.
Gathered personal info
I decided to type up and print my current meds, past appointments, treatment, and my previous doctor’s conclusions. I was able to hand it to the doctor and provide accurate information quickly and succinctly. I just had to have another set of X-rays, just in case.
New doctor, new information
The up side was finding a great new doctor who explained the X-rays in detail and why I was at such risk for repeat issues and potential fractures. She gave me a set of exercises and had me try on a variety of orthotics. I learned a wrapping technique that they use on runners. Believe me, I am no runner, but that along with a cortisone shot got me hobbling through the tour.
Before you travel…
Before your next trip, or before you arrive at your next destination, set aside some time to look up the local urgent care offices, and write down the hospital’s ER number. If you know anyone in the area, ask them for a doctor’s recommendation. You could even try calling the campground/RV park and asking the office/host for their recommendations, too. Better prepared than sorry!
RELATED
- A heart attack at Love’s Truck Stop: RV trips don’t always go as planned
- Dealing with medical emergencies on the road while RVing
##RVT1156
I think writing down hospitals and doctors is OK if you only experience a problem at your destination, I’m on the move when hooked up to the TT that wouldn’t work. I would highly recommend keeping an up to day list of all Meds, Allergies, and supplements you take plus any recent problems you may have experienced. This would greatly help the ER or regular doctor oh one other thing unless you travel single have a temporary power attorney for your spouse or other half concerning medical issues.
I hate to be pain but in today’s America if you ain’t a billionaire good luck with that!
Superfeet inserts have worked for me to help with PF. Used them all the time when running walking hiking etc. even in dress shoes.
Thank you, Nanci! 🙂 Sorry about your plantar fasciitis. 🙁 I got that in February of 1979 and have worn orthotics ever since. Good luck with the exercises and taping! Thanks ahain and safe travels! 😉