Medical tourism in the United States and beyond is a fast-growing sector, as patients turn to care options abroad in search of treatments. We clear up some common questions around the topic of medical tourism.
If you’re considering traveling abroad for medical care, you aren’t alone. The practice has become increasingly commonplace in recent years as patients travel overseas in search of medical services. More affordable treatment, better care standards, and shorter wait times are just some of the reasons people might seek medical assistance in other countries.
Still, traveling away from home for international medical tourism can be a confusing and complicated subject. Yet, it doesn’t have to be. Countries with medical tourism services are increasingly straightforward to access. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about medical tourism in the United States and beyond.
International medical tourism: Your questions answered
What countries offer medical tourism?
Popular destinations for international medical tourism include:
- USA
- Thailand
- Turkey
- Mexico
- Malaysia
- India
Each destination has its merits, from high healthcare standards to more affordable treatments. Much will depend on the medical services offered by your home nation and your personal needs.
Which country is best for international medical tourism?
Where is best for international medical tourism will depend on your personal circumstances, what treatment you need, and what you can afford.
You might want to consider whether a particular treatment is available in a destination, if it can be completed by a reputable practitioner, and how much it’s likely to cost before deciding on a particular location. Weigh up all the options and do your research before making any decisions.
Is international medical tourism safe?
Medical tourism can be safe, but it’s important to do your research beforehand. Risks include the quality of healthcare available, potential language barriers, and any post-procedure needs.
Choose a reputable and registered medical facility or practitioner for your treatment. It’s also essential that you understand the details around insurance, treatment payment, and aftercare so that you can best avoid any delays or obstacles.
What are some common treatments people use medical tourism for?
There are many treatments people choose to undertake abroad. Some common surgeries include:
- Cosmetic surgery: Surgeries like liposuction and rhinoplasty are common reasons for medical tourism.
- Organ and tissue transplants: Shorter wait times and higher care standards elsewhere lead to some people seeking this type of treatment abroad.
- Dental care: A wider pool of more affordable care can make dental care abroad an attractive option.
- Orthopedic care: Higher standards of care in places like the USA lead some people to seek orthopedic care abroad.
How do I choose a country for medical tourism?
It’s important to weigh up all the pros and cons before picking a destination country for international medical tourism. Much will depend on your circumstances and requirements. Consider:
- Care standards in a country or particular facility
- Treatment cost
- Aftercare options or needs
- Doctor training and qualifications
- Patient reviews
- Legal or insurance protections and needs
- Travel distance and cost
- Language barriers
What do I need before I travel?
Be sure you know what to expect before traveling for treatment. Confirm all procedure details, any post-operation care, and payment terms before agreeing to any services.
You’ll also want to purchase any flights, accommodation, and travel insurance that you may need. To travel, you may also need a valid passport, visa documentation, your medical records, and a note from your regular doctor or medical provider.
Remember to check the entry and exit conditions for your destination country to understand how long you can stay and any visa requirements.
What services are covered by my health insurance outside of the US?
Medical tourism insurance coverage is usually not provided as part of a standard US health package. Check with your insurance provider beforehand, but most often, surgeries undertaken in other countries are not covered financially.
You may need to pay for the cost of treatment yourself or look into private travel insurance that will cover your specific requirements.
Will I need supplemental medical tourism insurance coverage?
You may need to purchase supplemental medical insurance ahead of your surgery date. Travel insurance can cover the cost of canceled flights or lost luggage. It’s also important to include coverage for medical emergencies, repatriation, or unexpected costs.
What happens after the procedure, and what does follow-up care look like?
After your procedure, you’ll likely need follow-up care and close monitoring. Speak to your primary care physician and the medical team undertaking your treatment for more specific details.
Follow-up care might involve further appointments or a period of rest, so ensure you can have somewhere to stay in your chosen destination for the full duration you need.
What should I do if medical complications arise?
Seek immediate care from a local physician or the clinic where the procedure took place. If serious, you may need to contact your primary care doctor or your medical insurance provider back home for more specific needs.
Visit us for your international medical tourism needs
With appropriate preparation, medical tourism can be a safe and secure choice for surgery or treatment. Higher standards of care in nations like the USA lead many to opt for our country for treatments like orthopedics and joint care. New York City is a world-class hub for orthopedic care.
New York Bone & Joint Specialists have years of experience providing full-service orthopedic care to local and overseas patients. Find out more about our skilled professionals and schedule an appointment time with us today.
