Although it is estimated that five million people sought medical treatment abroad in 2014 and 2015, many more are still wary of being treated outside their home country. Here are some false facts that some of our patients brought to us.
Myth 1: Doctors aren’t as good as they are in the EU or the US
There is a misconception that doctors in some countries are fewer experiences than those in others. According to our research, doctors working in internationally accredited hospitals abroad will be just as qualified as those working in hospitals in the United States; in fact, some may have received their training in the United States or the European Union. Choose a hospital based on the expertise of the surgeons and doctors to ensure your own safety.
It can be difficult for patients to access and comprehend the qualifications of doctors all over the world, so selecting an internationally accredited hospital is one way to ensure that you will be treated by the best doctors. When picking a vacation spot, don’t just go with the cheapest option. It’s a good idea to go to a hospital that has surgeons who are highly specialized and have a good reputation for performing the procedure you’re interested in. A good doctor should inform patients about any potential complications and side effects of the treatment, and should be available to contact if you have any questions or concerns once you return to your home country.
Myth 2: Medical Tourism is Unsafe
It’s difficult to know where to begin when looking for a reputable doctor and hospital. Not only are you putting your health in the hands of others, but you also have the added pressure of finding treatment that fits within your budget. Consider whether the facility is internationally accredited or has the highest national accreditation to ensure that you are receiving treatment that is on par with or better than that provided in your home country.
It’s important to remember that there are risks involved in seeking medical treatment in another country, but they can be avoided. Some countries’ healthcare standards and medical practices differ from those in the United States, which may result in lower quality medical care. If the facility you choose does not meet your home country’s standards, doctors may reuse needles between patients or engage in other risky practices that can spread diseases like hepatitis B or C, malaria, or HIV. Patients may also be put at risk if the blood supply has not been screened for blood-borne infections, and medication may be of poor quality or even counterfeit in some countries. At Global Medical Care, we only work with institutions that have received Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation or the highest national accreditation.
Hospitals with the following accreditations guarantee that you will receive high-quality medical care:
- ISO 9001
- ISO 9002
- Joint Commission International (JCI)
- AAAASF
Myth 3: People only travel for plastic surgery
While breast implants, liposuction, and hair transplant surgeries are among the most popular procedures for which patients travel abroad, a growing number of medical tourists also travel for weight-loss surgery, fertility treatments (including IVF), sex-reassignment surgery, and life-saving surgeries such as cardiac surgery and cancer treatment. Many people choose to leave their homes to have life-threatening conditions treated by world-class specialists all over the world, and they can do so for up to 80% less than they would at home.
Aside from selecting an internationally accredited hospital, you should read any reviews, complaints, comments, reports, and evaluations you can find about the hospitals you’re considering. Consider your options carefully before booking any treatment in another country if the hospital or medical travel company you’re considering booking with tries to hard sell you or pressures you into making a decision too quickly. Furthermore, if they do not provide you with all the information you request, do not discuss aftercare, and do not discuss potential complications or side effects, you should reconsider.
You should be satisfied with the hospital’s accreditations as well as the qualifications of the medical team who will be performing surgery on you. Luckily, Global Medical Care has reviewed 200 health care professionals to help you find the best option for your individual needs.
