One of the most lucrative tourism segments that are gaining momentum
across the globe is Medical Tourism. Every year people in large number
travel to various destinations to receive top class medical treatments
at affordable price. There are various reasons behind people picking up
medical tourism as a travel option such as non affordability of the
required treatment, no insurance cover for the required treatment or the
treatment simply not available in their own country. As a medical
tourist, it is very important for a person to consider some important
things while travelling to a foreign country for health care reasons.
Listed below are the travel tips that will ensure a safe and successful
medical travel experience.
Intensive Groundwork
The experience of abroad visit for receiving medical treatment can
be dismaying at times. Hence research work is an important factor before
planning a medical travel. Right from choosing a right country to right
hospital and doctor to have your treatment done, one must go into
minute detailing before taking further step. Scroll down and read about
the following things that you must research on.
a) Undergoing Procedure
The
first and foremost thing that one must consider is the undergoing
procedure. Find out what you will achieve from the surgery and does it
match up to your expectations. Also inquire about how much time it will
take in recovery process, cost of the treatment and possible risks and
complications.
b) Hospital Appraisal
Due to the rising
popularity of medical tourism, more and more hospitals in abroad are
entering into this business to woo the lucrative foreign tourist
segment. But do they all are certified to serve you with the best
medical procedure? While selecting the hospital, you must check about
its accreditation such as Joint Commission International (JCI),
Healthcare Facilities Accreditation Program (HFAP), Community Health
Accreditation Program (CHAP) and International Standard Organization
(ISO), honors & accolades and high standards in terms of facilities
and equipments. Also check about the success ratio of the hospital.
c) Doctor Appraisal
Do check about the qualifications, reputation and experience of the doctors in the designated field who might be treating you.
d) Country Appraisal
A
thorough research about the country you are visiting for medical care
is essential before boarding the plane. Find out which country is best
for providing the required medical procedure and the cost involved. The
distance between the home country and travel destination must be
considered because your doctor may not permit long distance travel.
Keep in Touch With Your Local Doctor
Be
in contact with your local doctor and tell him about your decision of
abroad travel for medical treatment. You may need his assistance in
accumulating the health reports required by the overseas hospital as
well as for post treatment checkups after returning home.
Documents must be kept in Order
Always
be well prepared when you are travelling overseas for medical
treatment. Keep a check whether all required documents are with you or
not. Make copies for each document that you require:
a) Passport & Visa
Passport
is essential for you and your companion while travelling from one
country to another. Depending on the country you are travelling to, you
may or may not require visa. Consult with the embassy of the destination
country for that.
b) Credit & Debit Cards
Keep one or two debit and credit cards besides some local currency as you might need them in case of emergency.
c) Driver's License
If
you intend to drive in abroad, make sure that your driving license is
valid and remain with you throughout the travel. Some countries may
require international driving license in addition to your driving
license. Consult with the embassy of the destination country about the
requirement.
d) Medical records
Medical reports such as
X-rays, MRI, medicine prescriptions and pre - surgery records relevant
for the treatment must be there with you at the time of journey.
Handy and Emergency Contact Information
You
must possess emergency contact information like relatives and friends,
information about the destination country's embassy, hospital
information, information of the hotel you are staying in, contact
details of your local doctor, employer and insurance company and
International contact details of your bank.