Travel as a COPD Patient in Europe Toolkit

VAI ALLA VERSIONE ITALIANA DI QUESTA PAGINA

Introduction to the project

COPD is one of the most common long-term respiratory conditions and the third leading cause of death worldwide. It is a progressive, life-altering condition with no cure, yet it can be prevented if only caught in time.

Travelling with oxygen in Europe can be a real challenge, getting lost in a maze of bureaucratic, country-specific procedures involving a wide range of different stakeholders. This is why EFA joined forces with its COPD Community to make travel more accessible and safer for COPD patients who rely on oxygen therapy.

EFA’s “COPD Beyond Care” project aims to improve the quality of life of people with COPD, as well as access to treatment, care, and adequate support. The project aims at reducing the burden patients face when planning trips by providing clear guidance, practical resources and cross-country support through a dedicated network of National Contact Points (NCPs), represented by the EFA member organisations.

The COPD “Travel with Oxygen” project on EFA Official website

Oxygen and Equipment Information and Assistance

ITA Airways

Trenitalia

  • Request assistance -Sala Blu (English-speaking staff available upon request)
    • From landline phone: 800-906060
    • From mobile phone: 02-323232
    • Wait for operator to answer

  • Up to 1lt and ½ and up to a maximum of 3 per person

  • Recommended time ahead of the trip to request physical assistance: 2 days
  • English-speaking staff available upon request
  • Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility or passengers with a disability
    Info on stations, trains and other details
    on the page click on the corresponding section

Italo

  • Request assistance – Assistenza PMR:
    • Dial 060708
    • Press 2
    • Wait for operator to answer
  • No limits

  • Recommended time ahead of the trip to request physical assistance: 1 day

  • Be at train station ½ hour before departure
  • English-speaking staff available upon request
  • Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility or passengers with a disability
    Info on stations, trains and other details
    on the page click on the corresponding section

Insurance support

How to use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC/Blue Card)
Info on EHIC Card on the Italian Ministry of Health website/
Make sure to keep all your invoices and check with your insurance company if costs are covered

National health and security portals

Country-specific resources

Lists (and links) of local oxygen providers, emergency services and patient organization

Practical Tools