Medical Tourism: Travel To Another Country For Medical Care

Every year, millions of people travel abroad for medical services, a phenomenon known as medical tourism. Popular destinations for these medical tourists include India, Turkey, Thailand, Mexico, and Canada, along with various countries in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.

Reasons for Seeking Medical Tourism – Medical Care Abroad

Individuals may choose to seek medical care overseas for several reasons such as:

• Cost: To obtain treatments or procedures that are more affordable in other countries.
• Cultural alignment: To receive care from healthcare professionals who understand the traveler’s culture and language.
• Access to unavailable or unapproved treatments: To pursue procedures or therapies that are not accessible or sanctioned in the United States.
• The most frequently sought procedures during medical tourism trips encompass dental care, cosmetic surgery, fertility treatments, organ and tissue transplants, and cancer therapies.

What’s the difference between medical tourism and traveling for treatment?

Traveling to another country or region for medical or wellness purposes does not automatically classify you as a participant in medical tourism.

Medical tourism is specifically characterized by traveling abroad to obtain more affordable or accessible medical treatment. Most individuals who engage in medical tourism seek elective procedures, such as organ transplant, cancer treatment, orthopedic procedure,  cosmetic surgery or dental care, which are also available in their home countries but at a higher price. Additionally, some individuals may pursue treatment abroad to access higher-quality healthcare than what is available locally.

For example, as someone who lives in a country other than their own, you might find yourself in need of specialized medical care that is unavailable in your home country. In such cases, your healthcare provider may refer you to a facility in another city, region, or even back to your home country for the necessary treatment.

This practice is prevalent, even in well-developed nations. It is particularly common for those residing in remote areas with limited healthcare options, in smaller countries with few medical facilities like Andorra, or in less affluent or developing nations where healthcare access is restricted.

What you should know about traveling abroad for medical care?

Experiencing medical treatment can be inherently stressful, and this stress can escalate significantly for patients who must travel abroad for care.

Therefore, it is crucial to keep the following considerations in mind when seeking medical services overseas, whether for necessary treatment or medical tourism:

Consider bringing a partner or family member.  

The journey for any medical procedure can be quite daunting, making it beneficial to have a loved one accompany you. Many medical tourism companies are flexible regarding guests, and if you have international health insurance, it often covers at least one companion traveling with you.

This individual can provide essential emotional support during your recovery and assist with various tasks, which is particularly important when recuperating in an unfamiliar environment.

Medical Tourism Can Be Risky

The likelihood of experiencing complications is influenced by several factors, including the destination, the medical facility where the procedure is conducted, and the overall health of the traveler prior to the procedure. Additional factors that may elevate the risk of complications for travelers include:

Infectious Diseases: Every medical procedure carries a certain risk of infection. Complications arising from procedures conducted abroad can include wound infections, bloodstream infections, infections from donors (particularly in transplants or transfusions), and viral infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.

Antimicrobial Resistance: The emergence of highly drug-resistant bacteria and fungi has led to outbreaks among medical tourists. Antimicrobial resistance occurs when pathogens evolve to withstand treatments like antibiotics. This is a worldwide concern, and healthcare facilities in foreign countries may lack sufficient infection control measures, putting medical tourists at risk of acquiring drug-resistant infections.

Quality of Care: Certain countries might impose less stringent standards for licensure, credentialing, and accreditation than those found in Africa. This could lead to the prevalence of counterfeit medications and substandard medical devices.

Communication Difficulties: Engaging with personnel at the destination and healthcare facility can present significant challenges. If you are receiving treatment in a facility where you are not fluent in the local language, it may result in misunderstandings regarding your medical care.

Air Travel Considerations: Traveling by air after surgery can elevate the risk of developing blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis. It is advisable to postpone air travel for 10 to 14 days after major surgeries, especially those involving the chest, to reduce the risks associated with changes in atmospheric pressure.

Continuity of Care Concerns: Travelers may require medical attention in the United States if complications arise after their return. Follow-up treatment for such complications can be costly, and it may involve extended care that is not covered by your health insurance.

Strategies for Reducing Risks in Medical Tourism

1) Investigate the Healthcare Provider and Institution:

• Confirm the qualifications of the healthcare provider conducting the procedure or the companies such as Medical Value Travel Companies (MVT)that provide treatment for international patients.
• Examine the credentials of the institution where the procedure will take place.
• Seek accreditation from organizations like the Joint Commission International, International Accreditation for Hospitals, and the International Society for Quality in Healthcare.
• Medsurge India possesses all required credentials and adheres to international standards, offering patients comprehensive services including treatment from top physicians, affordable accommodations, airport transfers, and follow-up care.

2) Before You Travel:  

• Schedule a pre-travel consultation at least 4-6 weeks prior to your departure.  
• Discuss general health travel tips and any specific risks associated with your health condition, the procedure, and your travel plans.  
• Secure international travel health insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation.
• Research activities that may be inadvisable around the time of your procedure and adjust your plans accordingly.  

3) Maintain Your Health and Medical Records:  

• Carry copies of your medical records, including lab results and other pertinent documents.
• Notify medical personnel at your destination about any allergies you may have.
• Prepare a travel health kit containing both prescription and over-the-counter medications in their original packaging.
• Ensure you have an adequate supply of medication for the entire trip, plus additional doses in case of unforeseen delays.
• Obtain copies of all your medical records from the healthcare facility before returning home, and consider having them translated into English.

4) Arrange for Follow-Up Care:

• Determine your accommodation immediately following the procedure.
• Confirm that you can access follow-up care upon returning to your home country.
• Be aware of the potential financial implications of follow-up or emergency medical care.
• Examine your health insurance policy to understand coverage details and prepare for any possible out-of-pocket expenses.
• Think about obtaining supplemental travel health insurance to cover follow-up or emergency medical services.

Final Thoughts

Medical tourism has become a significant alternative for patients in search of high-quality and affordable healthcare options outside their home countries. Thanks to advancements in medical technology, specialized skills, and internationally accredited facilities, individuals can now obtain top-tier treatments at a fraction of the usual costs, often with reduced waiting periods. Nations such as India, Thailand, Turkey, and Mexico have established themselves as prominent healthcare destinations, providing a diverse array of services, from critical surgeries to elective procedures.

Despite the many benefits associated with medical tourism, it is essential for patients to engage in comprehensive research, select trustworthy healthcare providers, and take into account aspects such as post-operative care, travel arrangements, and potential risks prior to making a choice. As the sector continues to develop, partnerships among medical institutions, governments, and healthcare facilitators are crucial in promoting safety, transparency, and accessibility. Ultimately, medical tourism transcends mere travel for healthcare; it empowers patients with options, addresses disparities in medical access, and encourages a global perspective on quality healthcare solutions.

Best Medical Tourism Company in India

Having thoughts and want to know more about how you can opt for treatment internationally you can contact us– Medsurge India as we are known to be one of the leading medical tourism companies in India providing treatment all over the globe and is in collaboration with some of the best hospitals and doctors.

From your initial consultation with the best doctors via tele or video consultation and renowned hospitals with the best facilities we also provide budget-friendly prices according to your needs, with airport picks to accommodations, transportation, and a translator if needed. Throughout the years Medsurge India has served thousands of patients from all over the globe bringing hope and joy into their lives and will continue to do so.