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International Travel Clinic: Frequently Asked Questions

What vaccinations or prescriptions does the travel clinic provide?

A list of vaccinations available from the travel clinic can be found here. The travel clinic also provides injections of Immune ierum globulin (ISG), and prescriptions for malaria-prevention medicine.

How much do your travel clinic services cost?

A complete list of our fees is available here. Patients using the travel clinic pay for the cost of the vaccinations and a fee for the medical consultation. We participate in special government programs that provide specific free vaccines under certain special circumstances. You will be charged an administration fee if the vaccine is supplied to you at no charge.

What payment methods does the travel clinic accept?

We accept cash, checks and credit cards (Visa, MasterCard). We do not accept American Express. We can accept an ATM card with a Visa or MasterCard logo. Payment is due at the time of service.

What will happen at my appointment?

We offer expert consultation for vaccines and prescriptions that are necessary for safe travel to many foreign countries. You will be given an outline of vaccines and information based on your travel destination(s). You will then meet with a clinician. Based on the clinician's recommendations, you will receive any vaccinations needed or be given prescriptions for medications. Plan on an hour for your appointment.

What should I bring to my appointment?

To prepare for your appointment, complete these before your appointment tasks. Print out and complete the forms, and be sure to bring your immunization history information with you.

Does my insurance cover me for the visit and vaccine(s)?

We will give you a receipt that you can submit to your insurance company. However, we have found that most insurance companies will not cover these services.

Will you bill my insurance company or provide pre-approvals?

No. It is the patient's responsibility to submit forms for reimbursement. We do not provide pre-authorizations, pre-certifications, or pre-approvals for the visit, vaccines or prescriptions.

Does Medi-Cal or MediCare cover these costs?

Possibly. You are responsible for all fees. We are not MediCare providers and we do not bill MediCare. Your MediCare carrier may reimburse you in part or in full for immunizations received here.

How soon before my trip should I get my vaccinations?

Each vaccine is different regarding optimal patient immunity. The CDC recommends receiving vaccinations at least 4-6 weeks in advance. You can still benefit from a visit if it is less then 4 weeks before your trip.

What do I do if I have a reaction to the vaccination?

Call 911 if the vaccine reaction is life threatening. If not, immediately call your private physician. Please also call the clinic, after the reaction has been addressed, as we track reactions.

What shots/vaccinations do I need?

You can learn about the recommended or required vaccines for your travel destination(s) here. At your appointment, the consultation will determine which vaccination(s) the clinician recommends based on the type of travel you do, where you are going and your health history. We also make provisional recommendations for routine vaccines.

What is the cost for booster shots?

A booster shot visit includes a visit fee, the price of the vaccine and/or an administration fee (if the vaccine is supplied through a special government program).

Where is the travel clinic located?

The travel clinic is located at the Public Health Clinic, 3420 Chanate Road, in Santa Rosa. A map with directions is available here.