Why Medical Tourism Remains Popular
In the past few years, medical tourism started to boom. It’s when people decide to travel to another country for medical procedures. It might seem like an extravagant way to get a procedure, especially if they’re only cosmetic in nature. However, medical tourism started taking off and it remains a driving force for visiting some countries. Here’s why.
The cost is way cheaper
Some countries have affordable healthcare. It includes cosmetic procedures. Therefore, many people don’t mind traveling to countries hundreds of miles away just to get the procedure done. Even if they calculate the flight ticket, hotel accommodation, and other expenses, they can still save money.
There are more options
Another reason to travel for medical purposes is to get a procedure not available back home. Some countries even offer new procedures that are yet to be introduced in some places. People who can’t wait to try these procedures don’t mind planning a trip to get what they want.
There are shorter wait times
Some hospitals and clinics might offer a higher price to foreign patients, but the amount is still nothing compared to what it is back home. The best part is there’s also an express lane that provides people with shorter wait times. In countries like South Korea and Thailand that are known for medical tourism, there’s even priority given to those who have traveled long distances.
Quality isn’t a question
Some people might hesitate getting healthcare from another country due to potential quality issues. The truth is these medical practitioners have proven their worth. Many are even trained overseas and they’re using their skills in their respective countries. As a result, they can provide the same level of expertise as doctors from wealthier nations. They’ve also proven that the results of the procedures are similar or even better than what others have to offer.
There’s opportunity to explore destinations
Of course, getting the procedure is only half of the reason for traveling. The other half is to explore the local destinations. Once the procedure is over and the recovery period is done, it’s easier to visit different places. As long as you have enough time to get the procedure done and travel, you won’t have problems. Besides, you’re already in another country. You might as well take the chance to visit exciting locations.
Ease of getting a visa
Some countries expedite the visa application if it’s for medical reasons. When you need to obtain a visa to get the procedure done, you only have to show a medical reason and you’re good to go. You can receive a referral from a local doctor or prove that there’s already a medical practitioner waiting upon arrival.
For these reasons, there’s no question about the popularity of medical tourism. If anything, it will only go bigger in the future. More people will realize the practicality of seeking medical help abroad. More doctors will also feel enticed to prioritize foreign patients. Even countries that are getting popular for medical tourism extend help to the industry for it to keep going.
Photo Attribution:
1st and featured image from https://static01.nyt.com/images/2020/02/20/upshot/20up-doc1/20up-doc1-superJumbo.jpg
2nd image from https://www.chiangraitimes.com/health/thailand-to-ease-covid-19-red-tape-for-medical-tourist/
