If you’re going to do education abroad or work abroad, you’ve got to consider your health. From navigating a new health care system to overcoming culture shock to figuring out where to buy a cold remedy, you’ll have new things to think about.

Thus, before you leave, address your health situation honestly and take necessary actions to make sure that you will be in good stance once you are at your destination. Also, a visit to your physician, gynecologist, and dentist is a must to ensure you leave healthy—and prevent emergencies abroad. Get immunizations and hepatitis protection if needed for the region you’re traveling to. Check whether medications and medical supplies are available in your host country; if not, carry a supply with you. Pack copies of all medical records and prescriptions, including for eyeglasses. If you think you’ll need regular medical care abroad, take along a letter of introduction from your doctor at home that includes details of your medical treatment.

It is also important to verify your health insurance coverage. It is something to consider when choosing a program: some education abroad packages include health insurance as part of the program fee and some do not. Check your regular policy to see what coverage it provides for medical services abroad—and whether your plan pays the provider in your host country directly, or you must pay yourself and seek reimbursement later.