New Security Guidelines Affect Travelers With Medical Conditions
As of August 10, 2006, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has changed the security guidelines at all U.S. airports. Passengers may not bring any liquids or gels on board an aircraft. This new ruling is due to recent threats of terrorism involving substances in liquid or gel form. It is certainly necessary to adhere to these precautions to ensure the safety of everyone on board an airplane.
This can be concerning to passengers with diabetes or other medical conditions, who must carry medications or other prescriptions or treatments that do come in liquid or gel form. The TSA has published a list of acceptable items that passengers may still carry on board provided they follow these guidelines:
- Small amounts of Baby formula and breast milk if a baby or small child is traveling
- Liquid prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger’s ticket
- Up to 5 oz. (148ml) of liquid or gel low blood sugar treatment
- Up to 4 oz. of essential non-prescription liquid medications including saline solution, eye care products and KY jelly
- Gel-filled bras and similar prostethics
- Gel-filled wheelchair cushions
- Life support and life sustaining liquids such as bone marrow, blood products, and transplant organs carried for medical reasons
-
The TSA also states that these items will still be subject to physical inspection.
To make sure that boarding is less stressful, it might be helpful to have a letter from your physician stating that your health relies on your medications or treatments being available to you at all times.
Comments
What about bottles of insulin?
Insulin falls into the category of liquid prescription medicine. The name on the bottle must match the passenger ticket. I think that getting a note from your MD, stating that you need to bring your meds and your syringes on board, is a good idea, too. Thanks for the feedback!
If your diabetes causes you to be very tired and unable to stand for long periods or walk quickly for long distances, ask the airline for a wheelchair! they are extremely helpful in the boarding and transfer process. they take you to the head of the inspection line and you are boarded first on your flight. the advantages far outweigh any embaressement you may have about being unable to stand for hours in lines etc. And don’t forget the doctor’s letter. it will save you inspection problems with your meds.
we wouldnt have this problem is the american people and their president didnt think that they were king excrement. I will give the security people a hard time when i travel, and will carry all my meds and shampoos in my carry on. I will not be told what to carry.