“Zocdoc Reports: Travel Travails” is a comprehensive data analysis of common travel ailment related appointment bookings from January-June 2021 to January-June 2022. At the height of summer travel season, we’re taking a look at how Americans are preparing for healthy, happy travels, as well as which common travel-related illnesses and injuries are on the rise.
The data shows that people are preparing for trips, now that “Revenge travel” is reality, with travel this season up 16% since last summer. With more people vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19 than ever, and health concerns declining as a reason to put off traveling, Americans are making up for lost time, packing airports and setting sail to embark on trips that have been on hold for years.
Pre-trip preparations
While many people put off their routine health visits throughout the pandemic, upcoming travel is a catalyst for many to check in with a healthcare professional before setting off on a journey. From January-June 2021 to January-June 2022:
- Travel vaccination appointments increased by 327%
- Travel medication consultation appointments increased by 147%
- Pre-travel consultation and checkup appointments increased by 60%
During this same timeframe, 73% of these pre-travel appointments were conducted in-person, as people become increasingly comfortable with, and even prefer, in-office care.
Travel travails
Even with the best health and safety preparations, traveling comes with a unique set of risks, as people let their guard down and interact with unfamiliar environments and hazards. Between January-June 2021 and January-June 2022:
- Sunburn and sun damaged skin appointments increased by 11%
- Concussion appointments increased by 33%
- Sprain-related appointments increased by 36%
- Plantar fasciitis appointments increased by 40%
- Foot and ankle fracture appointments increased by 22%
- Arm and hand fracture appointments increased by 52%
- Stomach pain appointments increased by 20%
- Diarrhea appointments increased by 46%