Question
Can I continue treatment overseas, if I’m a student?
27 March 2012. Related: Access to treatment, All topics, Travel.
Can I do my follow-up treatment in oversea if I’m a student?
Answer
Firstly, it all depends on which country you are going to be studying at because different countries have different policies towards people with HIV. It will also affect whether you can get free care. In other EU countries for example, this should be easier.
A few countries still have at travelling restrictions for people with HIV. Some will allow you to travel but not live/work or study there. Therefore, this can mean getting treatment will be very difficult for foreigners. A few countries have put a total ban on people with HIV, whilst others might want you to take a HIV test before you are allowed to stay for longer than a few months.
Luckily most countries do not have any form of restriction. There are two websites, which list all the countries and their restrictions:
1. http://www.bodypositive.org.nz
http://www.bodypositive.org.nz/Pages/Living_with_HIV/Travel_and_Immigration/
http://www.thebody.com/content/art2244.html
If you cannot find the country which you are going to be studying at, then you can always check the country’s website on immigration and travelling, to see whether they have any restriction towards people with HIV.
In practical terms, if you are still planning on returning to the UK, you might be able to continue getting your treatment here. This would mean returning every 4-6 months for monitoring tests. Although not strictly legal, some people do this.
It will help to take a summary of your medical notes with you to the new country if you will be getting treatment there. This will help your new doctor. It is also a good idea to travel with a couple of months treatment so that you do not risk running out while arranging your new treatment centre.
Good luck and all the best.
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