Travel Medicine Des Moines

About The Iowa Clinic Travel Medicine Clinic

The Iowa Clinic Travel Medicine department is a dedicated resource to those traveling abroad who need specific immunizations prior to their international trip. Immunizations not only prevent infectious diseases during travel, but also provide personal safety and prevention of environmental risk.

There are many advantages to choosing The Iowa Clinic for your travel medicine needs. When you come for your appointment, you will be seen by an Internal Medicine physician who belongs to the International Society of Travel Medicine.

Travel Medicine Appointments

In order to provide you with the best care, we need to know your travel details. Here are a few things to know for your appointment:

• It is strongly recommended that your appointment occur 6 to 8 weeks prior to your travel to allow time for the immunizations to produce an appropriate level of antibody protection. In the event your travel is scheduled sooner than 6 to 8 weeks out, we respectfully request you schedule your appointment no later than 2 weeks prior to travel; this will ensure we have the appropriate vaccines in stock for your travel destination.
• Prior to your appointment, a nurse will call to go over details and obtain personal health information.
• Prior to your appointment, gather your vaccination history. This will allow your physician to give you the best immunization recommendation.
• You must bring your travel itinerary to your appointment.
• It is not necessary but recommended that you schedule an appointment to be seen upon returning from your trip.
• Payment transactions will be completed at the time of your visit and do not go through insurance.

Maintain Personal Security

Travelers should also stay abreast of current events, particularly those that could pose a safety or health problem for travelers.

FAQs

Which vaccinations do I need for my trip?

The specific immunizations you need depend on your destination, itinerary, medical/immunization history and your traveling style. There is no set list of vaccinations 
for international travel, every traveler should receive customized advice based on the factors listed above

Will my insurance cover the cost of The Iowa Clinic Travel Medicine?

Health plans vary in what they cover. We are not contracted with any insurance plan and ask for payment at the time of your visit. We accept credit cards, checks and cash transactions

Are vaccinations always required?

International travel immunizations are divided into two categories: required and recommended. Required vaccinations are necessary for entry into certain countries. Recommended vaccinations are suggested to provide health and safety during your trip.

I'm leaving on my trip next week. Is it too late for vaccinations?

Contact our Travel Medicine department right away. Some vaccinations, even when given at the last minute, may offer protection.

I can't remember my vaccination history. Is this a problem?

While it’s best that we know your immunization history, our Travel Medicine physicians will still be able to advise you on recommended vaccines based on your destination and itinerary.

Do you vaccinate children?

Yes, we are able to vaccinate children ages 5 and older who plan to travel internationally.

Travel medicine resources

You can review the Center for Disease Control (CDC) Travel Yellow Book Chapter 2 or download the app* for iPhone and Android

*There may be fees associated with this resource. Please check the App Store or Google Play for further details.

Call to schedule your appointment at 515.875.9190.