Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Medical Tourism?

Medical tourism is a term describing the rapid growth of the industry where people from all around the world are traveling to other countries to obtain medical, dental and surgical care while at the same time touring, vacationing, and fully experiencing the attractions of the countries that they are visiting.

2. Why is Medical Tourism so popular?

More than 30,000 people from US traveled in different country to obtain health care only in 2003 alone, and these numbers are steadily rising. A combination of many factors has lead to the recent increase in popularity of medical tourism: excessive costs of healthcare in developed countries, ease and affordability of international travel, favorable currency exchange rates in the global economy, rapidly improving technology and standards of care in many countries of the world, and most importantly proven safety of healthcare in select foreign nations.

3. Why should I consider Medical Treatment abroad?

Overseas medical treatment is becoming more popular in recent years due to several reasons. Patients in developed countries have come to realize that medical treatment in some of the most advanced medical centers in other countries does not pale in comparison to that in the US or Canada. And often the same procedures, when done abroad can be at a fraction of the cost.

4. Why using GlobalMedTravel.com to arrange for Medical Tourism?

While world-class medical services and facilities are available at competitive prices overseas, most patients are not able to get the necessary information to find the right medical professionals or institutions to address their needs.
We help our customers make the right decision, by deploying our expertise and network. Our unique experience with European medical facilities and providers distinguish us from the other companies providing medical tourism services.

5. What are the cost savings for Medical Tourist?

The cost savings are enormous. Large price disparities exist across the board for numerous medical and surgical procedures. And because of favorable currency exchange rates for medical tourists, the costs associated with accommodation, food, shopping, and sight-seeing are similarly very favorable.

For example, for the same price as a week long vacation for two in Hawaii that includes airfare and boarding & lodging, a couple can travel to Bulgaria, with airfare, boarding & lodging, personal tour guide/concierge, and LASIK corrective surgery for two. As another example, one can travel abroad for heart bypass surgery in a prestigious medical center with a three-week recovery for under $20,000. The total cost for the medical procedure alone in the United States would routinely be in excess of $100,000.

6. What price differences can I expect in relation to the costs for healthcare in U.S. compared to Bulgaria or Turkey?

The price of your total package inclusive of healthcare procedure, inpatient care, pre and post procedure accommodation at a luxury hotel, personal assistance, transfers, travel and tours costs can be 50% - 80% cheaper than the procedure alone costs in the US. Thus you will pay less for world-class healthcare services, combine and enjoy your vacation, and at the same time manage a big saving.

7. Why is the cost of medical care significantly less abroad?

The countries that we work with have excellent private sector medical centers. For the medical tourist, the cost of medical care in these countries is favorably impacted by the lower cost of living, a strong dollar and lower physician fees.

In addition, the cost of medical care is lower because there is a minimal amount of medical/legal issues and significantly less administration and paperwork. The vast majority of private patients in Bulgaria or Turkey pay the doctor and medical centers directly. Unlike the United States, there is no administrative paperwork associated with insurance claims or approval of care for private patients in these countries.

8. Can you give me information regarding a procedure not listed on this website?

If you require or are interested in knowing more about a particular procedure that is not listed, you can contact us so we may assist you in your search.

9. Is cost alone a compelling reason to travel abroad for medical care?

Although the cost of care is perhaps the most important reason to travel abroad for medical care, the benefits go far beyond saving money. International patients receive 5-star personal care, from treatment and recovery in the finest hospitals and clinics, and 24-hour attention and services, to luxury accommodations while recuperating. A stress-free environment and privacy away from neighbors, family, or colleagues relieve anxiety, speed the healing process, and produce better, faster results. We suggest that you carefully review all of the information on the medical center and physicians prior to making this decision. There are risks involved in surgical procedures regardless of where you receive medical care. You should take time to understand these risks. We also strongly suggest that you discuss this decision with your doctor in your own country, family members and others prior to traveling overseas for medical care.

10. What about the quality of medical care in hospitals abroad? Is it as good as here in America?

Medical care in medical centers abroad is provided by board-certified physicians, many of whom have previously trained in top U.S. or European medical programs. Their quality of care is equal to the one available in this country. We personally visit all hospitals and physicians and require all necessary credentials.

11. Who selects a medical center and doctor for me?

We will offer you choices, and the ultimate decision is up to you. Our role is to furnish you with information on the medical centers and physicians in our network that can provide you with medical care. We will not select, encourage you to use, advise nor underwrite any of the physicians or medical centers in our network.

12. Should I inform my local physician that I intend to receive medical care overseas?

We strongly recommend that you inform your treating physician that you are considering receiving medical care abroad and discuss all benefits as well as potential risk and complications with your personal physician.

13. How long will I be in the hospital/clinic?

The length of time that you will be in the hospital will vary depending on the type of procedure you're having and your individual other medical conditions. We will assist in providing you with an estimate from the physician abroad.

14. What happens after my medical procedure?

Each patient’s needs are unique. Depending on your individual health status and the procedure you have, your doctor and you will make that decision, whether to overnight at a hospital or its aftercare facility, or to return to your hotel where you will receive continuing support from your European Case Manager, available to you 24 hours a day.

15. Can I bring along a family member or companion?

Yes, many medical tourists have a friend or a family member accompany them overseas. We will be glad to assist you with your companion’s accommodations and travel arrangements.

16. Can you arrange for a vacation after my treatment?

Most medical tourists select to travel or vacation in the country they visit after they recover from the medical or surgical procedure they had, and the physician determines that it is safe for them to do so. Your European Case Manager will assist you making these selections from the various options you have, depending on your personal preferences.

17. What about follow-up care after I return from my trip?

With rare exceptions, you would not require to return to the country abroad. We can facilitate communication with your treating physician abroad if any questions arise. Also, we strongly encourage you to contact your personal physician for continuing your medical care.