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Source: MS Focus Magazine – a publication of the MS Foundation
Since its creation in 2001, the Transportation Security Administration has been responsible for security screenings in most U.S. airports, as well as setting the standards for private firms that carry out screenings for all other flights. The policies of this controversial and frequently criticized agency added a new level of complexity to air travel in the United States, particularly for those with medical conditions and disabilities. Moreover, several highly-publicized incidents between TSA and travelers with disabilities – particularly since the introduction of enhanced screening procedures in 2010 involving full-body scans or pat-downs – have made some hesitant about managing the security screening necessary for air travel. If this is a concern for you, knowing how to prepare, what to expect, and what rights you can assert can help you to navigate the screening process successfully.
Communicating Your Needs
While most travelers may pass through the TSA checkpoint without needing to speak to an officer, many of those with MS would need to communicate special circumstances. TSA provides a printable disability notification card on their website, which would allow you to discreetly inform a screener of your condition. Any medical documentation of your condition is acceptable for this purpose, or you can choose to discuss it openly.
Traveling with MS Medications
Air travelers are encouraged to keep their medications with them in carry-on baggage, in case those medications should be needed in-flight, or in the unfortunate event that your checked baggage is lost or misdirected. All medications in solid form (pills, capsules, or tablets) can be carried on with no special procedures – simply leave them in your carry-on as it is X-rayed at the security checkpoint. What if your medication is liquid, such as in the case of injectable MS treatments?
The TSA requires — click to continue reading
Communicating Your Needs
While most travelers may pass through the TSA checkpoint without needing to speak to an officer, many of those with MS would need to communicate special circumstances. TSA provides a printable disability notification card on their website, which would allow you to discreetly inform a screener of your condition. Any medical documentation of your condition is acceptable for this purpose, or you can choose to discuss it openly.
Traveling with MS Medications
Air travelers are encouraged to keep their medications with them in carry-on baggage, in case those medications should be needed in-flight, or in the unfortunate event that your checked baggage is lost or misdirected. All medications in solid form (pills, capsules, or tablets) can be carried on with no special procedures – simply leave them in your carry-on as it is X-rayed at the security checkpoint. What if your medication is liquid, such as in the case of injectable MS treatments?
The TSA requires — click to continue reading
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