Advice

As for any trip overseas you must plan well ahead and be aware of the political climate in which you will be operating. Valid visas and passports are obvious needs, but also do your homework when it comes to international customs and travel, including answering several questions:

  1. What is the current state of diplomatic relations between Canada and the country I am planning to visit?
  2. Are there any customs restrictions on bringing humanitarian medicines or medical products into this particular country?
  3. Does this country have a Consulate or Embassy within Canada where I can find answers ahead of time?
  4. Have I remembered to contact my airline ahead of time to ask about taking extra baggage? (Many airlines will actually allow extra weight for humanitarian causes)

Many times individuals will feel compelled to take additional medications and supplies from their own home. While this is very generous, it could also land you in a lot of trouble! For example, some common headache/migraine medicines contain codeine, which is a narcotic and a controlled substance.

It is extremely important that you know what you are carrying and have a list to prove it. That's why it is usually easiest to have an expert, like HPIC, organize your packages.

In most cases being prepared ahead of time can avoid any potentially unpleasant situations. Remember, it's always better to be honest about what you are carrying - otherwise you could quickly find yourself in a great deal of trouble trying to sneak something through illegally.

And finally, one of the most important things is to be sensitive to the cultural differences that exist between Canada and other countries. Be flexible and patient, remembering that things may not always work exactly the way they would at home. It's a wonderful thing to bring health to someone in great need, so think of yourself as a servant and you'll be assured of a life-changing experience.

God Bless,
Dr. Robert Stephens
M.D.

For more information contact:
Margaret Buchanan
Manager, Media Relations
Toll-free: 1-800-627-1787
Tel: 514-695-0007, ext. 117
email: mbuchanan@hpicanada.ca