International Relations
International Relations was developed in response to frequent inquiries from
physicians and patients from out of the area and around the world seeking
information about UC Irvine Healthcare’s renowned clinical care and research.
The International Relations team has the experience, expertise and sensitivity to
assist international patients in obtaining the highest quality, individualized
medical care. The healing process involves state-of-the-art technology and the
latest in medical interventions and treatment. Illness is a time of extreme
vulnerability, and patients have better outcomes when they can trust their
health care providers and feel comfortable in their environment. Services are
tailored to the individual needs of each patient and we offer a team approach to
problem-solving and patient support.
Services:
Pre-trip Planning & Coordination
Most difficulties faced by patients seeking medical care outside their countries can
be anticipated and avoided. Our emphasis is on communication, proper planning
and attention to detail, making the patient’s stay a pleasant one. International
Relations has direct responsibility for personally coordinating all arrangements
and aspects of the patient’s care provided by our multidisciplinary team of
specialists.
The concerns of patients and their families are our top priority. Among the pre-trip
planning and coordination services offered by our International Relations team
are correspondence with referring physicians, hospitals, sponsors, patients or
family, and help in acquiring the appropriate visas for travel. We can also
provide estimated costs of treatment and help to coordinate special billing
arrangements.
Comprehensive Case Management Services
UC Irvine
Healthcare provides comprehensive case management services and customer
services.
Coordination of Medical Care
An International Relations liaison will schedule and coordinate all medical
appointments during the patient’s stay. This includes clinical visits as well as
inpatient hospital admissions and home health care services when necessary. The
liaison will also assist in obtaining prescriptions, medical devices and other
services that may be required. More importantly, the International Relations
liaison functions as an advocate for the patient and family when they are not
able to do so either because of illness or language difficulties.
The liaison is capable of facilitating access to faculty physicians of the UC Irvine
School of Medicine.
Airport Assistance
The International Relations liaison or designated representative will be waiting for
the patient at the airport when he or she arrives, ready to assist with locating
and transporting baggage and arranging for transportation to the hotel or other
accommodations.
Housing and Transportation
The International Relations liaison can assist patients and families in obtaining
hotel accommodations for short-term stays and provide information about housing
options for more extended stays. For patients staying in a preferred hotel
selected by our office, transportation to and from the hospital and other UC
Irvine clinical facilities can be arranged. Additional information can also be
provided about other transportation, recreational or cultural opportunities to
make their stay as pleasant as possible
Interpreter/Translator
International Relations can provide interpreters and translators as needed 24
hours a day. In addition, staff can arrange introductions to cultural or
religious groups on the UC Irvine campus and in the larger community who can
provide social support.
International Relations can help patients stay in contact, whether via
telephone, fax or e-mail, with those at home and facilitate communication
between the physician at home and the health care providers and UC Irvine
Healthcare.
For more information about International Relations, call 714-456-5181, fax
714-456-7451 or e-mail iro@uci.edu.