People from the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom usually aim for Asian countries when getting medical treatment for a variety of reasons. Asians are known to be very kind, accommodating and friendly. Asian nations are also widely popular for their unique and colorful culture, so you get to learn a lot from your trip. Finally, the technologies and practices in these countries are now considered globally competitive and safe.

Going to India

Medical tourism in India experiences a yearly growth rate of about 30%. By 2012, experts estimate the revenues brought in by the industry will reach about $2 billion. Some of the reasons why foreigners go to India include the very low cost of medical treatment, the very rich culture, historical and religious landmarks and the availability of modern medical technologies and equipment.

At present, infrastructures in India is not that many, but the cost of treatment in India is only around 10% of the cost you expect to pay in America or the United Kingdom. Some of the most popular treatments that visitors go for include cardiac bypass surgery, alternative medicine, eye surgery, hip resurfacing, heart surgery, orthopedic surgery and bone marrow transplant.

The health capital of India is Chennai, located at the southern region. The city brings in around 45% of medical tourists from other nations and about 40% from local places. Other medical tourism hotspots in India are Mangalore and New Delhi.

More Asian Countries

Malaysia is one of the newest favorites of medical tourists. Some of the advantages of visiting the country include the availability of top quality hospitals, experienced and well-trained medical staff and English being widely spoken throughout the main cities. Malaysia also has a very active association that aims to develop medical tourism. There is a national accreditation scheme as well. A lot of the hospitals aim to become dually accredited in a few years.

The Philippines is known for having very qualified doctors and dentists. A number of medical institutions are already accredited by JCI. Expect treatment to be only a fraction of the cost you pay for in the States. Some of the popular procedures done in the country include dental work, plastic surgery and heart surgery.

Korea and Singapore

Korea is one of the hottest medical tourism destinations today. Japanese patients usually go to Korea to avail of cheaper prices and the modern medical equipment and facilities. Korean clinics and hospitals are especially popular for procedures like cancer treatment, organ transplant, joint care, dental care, ophthalmology, spinal treatment and infertility treatment. Other popular procedures are mostly included in cosmetic surgery, such as nose jobs, skin lightening, eyelid surgery and facelifts.

Singapore has several health centers and hospitals accredited by JCI. It is preferred by several tourists because English is widely spoken and the equipment, technology and practices are always updated and are among the best in the world. Singapore also has agencies working to ensure that the country becomes one of the best when it comes to providing quality and advanced patient care.

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The process may still be unfamiliar to you, but you will find that medical tourism can be very convenient and easy, once you understand the rules and find the right people and agencies that can help you. Medical tourism is quickly becoming a big sector, especially among Asian countries. More and more Americans and Britons are going to new places to spend less and get some much needed rest and relaxation. Here are some common questions.

When and how do I pay for my treatment abroad?

In most cases, getting a medical tourism package will require you to provide a partial or down payment to the medical institution. There may be third agencies involved to ensure that your payment stays safe and documented. Once you arrive at the destination country, you will pay after the treatment is done at the medical institution or hospital. You may pay using your credit card, a PayPal account, cash and check, depending on the institution and the online preference available.

Most foreigners make reservations and other preparations online. You can start your own PayPal account and pay for the down payment instantly. You only need to provide credit to your account using your credit card or via money transfer. An email will be sent to you confirming that the payment has been received. You may show this to the hospital once you arrive at the destination country.

How can I make sure that I am dealing with reliable institutions?

Only deal with internationally accredited hospitals. Accreditation may come from different bodies, such as the ISO, JCI and Trent. Being accredited means that the medical institution has been approved by the right agencies and comply with the standards and regulations set by top groups worldwide. You should also talk to the physician and surgeon who will conduct the surgery. This way, you can ensure that the professional has had more than enough training and experience to deal with your case. The success rate will also increase if you deal with well-trained professionals and experts.

Double check and review the diagnosis provided by your local physician with the one made by your doctor overseas. You can then ensure if you really have the condition and needs the right approach or surgery to get well.

How can I ensure that I will stay safe and comfortable throughout the trip?

Visit the official web site of the hospital or medical institution where you are going to. You should check how often they upgrade their equipment and tools, as well as which technologies are already available in their area. The tools and facilities available should be modern, with regards to your case. This way, you get the highest quality of treatment possible without having to pay as much.

You should also consult your travel agent and check out the plan and schedule provided. Find out more about your hotel accommodations, the city where you are staying and what other things are included in the package, such as food, transportation and other freebies. Find out how many days you are supposed to stay and which airlines will take you to and from the country of destination.

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