Local travel for Australians on haemodialysis
Preparing to travel while on home dialysis does require some planning on your own and in collaboration with your dialysis healthcare team. If you are on home haemodialysis, the best way to travel is to book an in-centre dialysis chair. See below to learn how to book:
- Booking an in-centre dialysis chair – this is the most feasible way to travel on haemodialysis, see the dropdown below on in-centre dialysis to learn more.
No matter the travel treatment option you chose, you need to make sure you’ve confirmed your plan with your dialysis healthcare team.
Local travel for in-centre haemodialysis
There’s a lot to explore in our own backyard. Here are some ways to plan ahead to receive in-centre haemodialysis treatments in Australia:
Organising dialysis at another unit near your destination:
- If you know your travel destination, contact a dialysis unit close to where you’re staying well in advance so they can accommodate you on the days you require. Visit our Dialysis Unit Guide to find a dialysis unit near you.
- If you are a resident of New South Wales, you may be eligible for up to 3 funded dialysis sessions per year when travelling. Visit Away From Home Haemodialysis to learn more.
Book in with the Big Red Kidney Bus:
- If you’re looking to travel locally around Australia, then the Big Red Kidney Bus Program can help you to explore and stay on top of your haemodialysis treatment.
- The Bus is available for all Australian dialysis patients, all over Australia. It travels to popular tourist locations throughout regional New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, and Victoria.
If you have any questions about our holiday programs or would like to make a booking with the Big Red Kidney Bus, please call the Kidney Health Australia Helpline on 1800 454 363.
Overseas travel with haemodialysis
As an Australian, you may be able to receive dialysis abroad with the right planning. Australia has Reciprocal Health Care Agreements (RHCAs) with 11 other countries.
Countries without RHCAs may offer out-of-pocket payment for haemodialysis, which can be costly. You will need to make sure you have all required vaccinations to receive dialysis in-centre when abroad. Be sure to call around to the dialysis centres at least 6 months prior to your travel to book in and prepare.
Finally, check the customs regulations in the country you are visiting. Ensure you carry a treatment letter from your doctor with your current health condition and medication list.
