You may have already decided to have one or more medical procedures or surgeries done abroad in Costa Rica. In our last article we compared the costs for various treatments performed here with the costs for the same procedures in the U.S. Overall, the savings average anywhere from thirty to seventy percent. With the worldwide medical tourism market growing at a rate of 15 to 25%, why wouldn’t you choose Costa Rica? Ranked in the top five countries for medical tourism among Americans, cosmetic surgery and dental care are still the most popular. As with any medical procedure, the medical professionals are a key source of information.
What To Ask Doctors
Patients Beyond Borders provides some important questions you should ask when considering treatment abroad.
■ How many patients with my condition have you treated?
Find out how many general procedures a hospital has performed, and ask how many specific treatments for your condition your doctor has personally conducted.
■ What are the fees for an initial consultation?
Some consultations are free, while others require a flat fee that is deducted from the bill if you choose to have treatment.
■ Do you practice alone or with others? Do you practice in a clinic or hospital?
Find a physician who practices among a group of certified professionals with a broad range of related skills.
■ Who does the surgery, you or other doctors in your practice?
Get written assurance that the surgeon you specify, and not an associate, will perform the procedure.
Should You Bring A Companion
You may prefer to travel with a partner, family member or friend when embarking on a medical tourism excursion. Even if you prefer not to, you can still be assured of remarkable quality of care and attention. The best hospitals offer low nurse-to-patient ratios and a host of staffers. Orderlies, physician’s assistants, and dietitians will attend to you diligently.
“If you’re not planning to travel with a companion, we strongly recommend you engage the services of a health travel agency that offers concierge services. A good agent is with you almost daily, particularly at the more stressful junctures, such as arrival in-country, medical consultations, and immediately before and after a surgical procedure.”
—Excerpted from Patients Beyond Borders World Edition
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