Medical Tourism, Is It Risky or Is It a Necessity?

You might have heard stories of people crossing the border to find some barely board-certified doctor to perform liposuction or breast augmentations. However, did you know people also go overseas for regular medical checkups and procedures?

Over the years, tourism has grown, not just in the number of people who travel but in the intentions of why people travel. Some travel for relaxation and exploration. Others travel for medical support, which is referred to as medical tourism.

Let’s discuss medical tourism and whether it should be included in your next trip.

What is medical tourism, and why do people do it?

Medical tourism occurs when someone travels outside of their home country to receive medical care or treatment in another country. This type of traveling has become more recognized because of the number of Americans seeking medical care in places where it won’t cost them their life’s savings.

What is curious about this growing trend is that it was once common among patients in less-developed countries. These people would pursue medical treatments unavailable in their home country. Now, the activity has shifted, and people are seeking treatments that are available to them in their home country but are substantially cheaper abroad.

With the U.S. dollar stronger in many countries, many Americans can book a flight to get treatment instead of paying the total price in the States. Plus, they can squeeze in a little sightseeing after their procedures. 

With social media’s influence on travel, this new type of tourism has gained a lot of attention. With medical tourism being glamorized, thinking critically about the messages you see on your screen is essential. As Imani Bashir pointed out in one of her Instagram videos, some promotions you see of people getting medical treatment could be sponsored trips. This means that an airline company, tourism board, or other travel companies may have flown someone out specifically so they could create content on the experience. 

So now that you know why some people are flying out for dental care, where are they going?

Popular destinations for medical tourism

What is one of the most popular countries for medical tourism? If you guessed Mexico, you’re right. According to medicaltourism.com, this Latin country’s healthcare system has advanced with new infrastructure and technologies. Many places also provide quality care through oncology, cardiology, and plastic surgery. Some standard procedures include root canals, dental implants, gastric bypass surgery, hip and knee replacements, facelifts, and liposuction. 

Another popular destination is the Dominican Republic. The country hasn’t had the best reputation when it comes to medical procedures. Unfortunately, there have been cases where Americans died after receiving surgery in this Caribbean country. Yet, despite some unfortunate events, social media has made the country redeemable. More and more people are flocking to the government for dental treatments, cardiovascular care, cosmetic and plastic surgery, and orthopedic procedures.

In addition to social media attention, many people fly to the DR because of the cost. According to medicaltourism.com, medical procedures can cost up to 50–70% less than in the United States or Western Europe. For example, a rhinoplasty procedure could cost $8,000 in the U.S. but between $3,000 and $4,000 in the Dominican Republic. 

Risks involved with medical tourism

Medical tourism has become highly sought after because many people can’t afford to get the critical and often life-saving procedures they need. Even though it may seem like a dream to not only get quality healthcare but also have the opportunity to explore a new country, medical tourism shouldn’t be taken lightly. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, medical tourism involves many risks, including the risk of contracting an infectious disease. Another scary thing is antimicrobial resistance, when germs become super strong and resistant to drugs such as antibiotics. 

There are also communication challenges. Even though there may be a common language between you and the medical staff, other nuances in the language could make communication difficult and lead to misunderstandings. Additionally, flying within less than ten days of surgery can increase the chances of blood clots. Lastly, you may need follow-up care when you return to your home country, which could be costly. 

As mentioned, cost is a significant factor in why people opt for medical tourism. While a single procedure may be significantly cheaper, consider all the costs, especially when comparing U.S. prices. Consider the cost of the procedure along with flight costs, accommodations, outpatient care, etc. 

Despite the risks, medical tourism has many benefits. 

Considering the benefits of medical travel

One of the challenges with certain medical systems, particularly in the United States, is the wait time. Often, there’s a significantly lower wait time in other countries. Instead of waiting years to complete a procedure, you may only need to wait months. 

There’s also the advantage of vacationing after your procedure. Taking some time off in an environment that promotes relaxation and is calmer than your home country may be more conducive to your healing. 

Lastly, going abroad for medical treatment may give you access to alternative therapies and care you wouldn’t usually have. Medical tourism can give you more options if you feel limited by your choices. 

Final thoughts

As someone who has lived outside the United States for the past seven years and received various medical treatments abroad, I’m definitely for medical tourism. I had employer-sponsored insurance when I was living in the States. Once I was laid off, I remember avoiding doctors for fear of getting an outrageous bill. Thus, I understand the desire or interest to go abroad to pay significantly less for a medical procedure. 

Yet, people must be careful and critical about how medical tourism is displayed on social media. Don’t neglect to do your research before showing up at any doctor’s office. Bad and good doctors exist everywhere, and if you’re not careful, going in for a procedure can leave you in a worse condition than before. 

Lastly, if you seek medical tourism in another country, remember that the local people pay taxes for medical facilities. Make sure your trip doesn’t hinder the local people from getting access to their local health care.