Chris, from the pharmacy side, a few things that help people with long-term conditions I see every week. Always use the same pharmacy, so they know your medication and can spot interactions. Keep a card in your wallet with your condition, your medication by active ingredient and your doctor's number, in the local language. And ask your doctor for a written plan of your regular checks for the year, so you know what to book and when, rather than waiting to be called.
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Chris Bennett ⭐ Helpful member
2 Sept 2026, 13:48
I have type 2 diabetes, well managed, and I've been lucky so far here. But I've realised I don't really have a plan for managing it long term in another country. At home my GP knew my history, the pharmacy knew my prescriptions, and the nurse at the practice knew my name.
Here, I'm starting again with everything, in a language I'm still learning. I've registered with a doctor, I have my records translated, and my medication is available. It's more the continuity that worries me: the regular check-ups, the specialist when I need one, and what happens if something goes wrong on holiday.
For those managing an ongoing condition abroad: how did you rebuild the routine of care? And what do you wish you'd sorted in the first year?