Medical tourism is a booming industry worldwide popular with a lot of travellers. So, what is medical tourism and why is it growing in popularity?
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What is medical tourism?
Medical tourism is travelling to another country for a medical procedure. Travellers go to a less developed country for a medical procedure and pay a fraction of the cost.
Common medical procedures done include:
- Dental – e.g. crowns, implants, dentures and teeth whitening
- Cosmetic surgery – for face and body
- Fertility treatments
- Other surgeries – such as eye, ear, heart, orthopaedic and gastric bypass etc.
And more!
Globally, the medical tourism industry is worth approximately $54 billion dollars a year and growing by 25% annually.
Why is it growing in popularity?
Medical procedures are very costly in most developed countries in the world. The lure of getting the procedure done at a heavily discounted price is a big drawcard.
For example, in Australia, a nose surgery (rhinoplasty) might cost between $16,000-$20,000 (at current prices). If you go to Thailand to get the same procedure, it will cost about $6,000 all expenses paid. A massive saving compared to usual medical costs.
What countries offer medical tourism?
The following countries are popular choices for those interested in medical tourism:
- Thailand
- Singapore
- Malaysia
- India
- Turkey
- Dubai
- Costa Rica
- Mexico
And many others!
Benefits of medical tourism
The benefits of medical tourism include cost savings, shorter waiting times, access to advanced medical technology and combining treatments with travel.
Cost
The cost is a deal maker for travellers who are keen to get a medical procedure done. The total cost quoted will usually include the medical procedure, access to an on call nurse for 24 hours after the operation, one night in a private hospital, and accommodation for recovery time.
Shorter wait times
Because medical tourism is a business rather than a regulated public medical system, most people will experience shorter wait times to get the procedure done.
Advanced medical technology
Medical businesses serious about attracting medical tourism customers will have the most advanced and up to date medical technology and advertise this as part of their unique selling point (USP).
Combining treatment with travel
Combining a medical treatment with a holiday is getting two things for the price of one. After the medical procedure, you can recover and relax at the holiday destination.
Risks of medical tourism
Medical tourism has risks. The patient can be at a big disadvantage if something goes wrong with the procedure.
Infection is a risk when having an operation in any country. But the risk is higher if you are in a less developed country. Are doctors and medical staff abroad able to deal with your medical complications if they happen?
Be aware that travel insurance may not cover you and your medical procedure and if there are complications and you need to be airlifted to your home country, expensive transport costs may wipe the initial savings you made.
Investigate with your local medical providers beforehand just in case you need follow up treatment after the operation abroad. Check how much this is going to cost.
Need travel insurance for your trip? Check out EKTA.
Research and preparing for your trip
As you would normally do for any medical procedure, it’s important to do your research and check the credentials and accreditation of the medical provider. Check the safety and health standards of the country you are travelling to as well. Ask about post care and recovery. The key is, do your research.
Reading reviews and testimonials online are also helpful in deciding whether the medical provider is a good fit for you.
Want to book the perfect travel experience? GetYourGuide can help.
Choice
It’s ultimately your choice whether you travel for a medical procedure. Be informed and have a back up plan, and you’ll be ready to handle anything that happens.
What are your thoughts about medical tourism? Let me know by commenting below.
Linda is an Amazon author, writer and travel blogger. Her website The Smart Travelista offers travel resources and tips via her blog, books, videos and more.
