A Boomer’s Thoughts on Medical Tourism

The CDC describes medical tourism as “a term commonly used to describe international travel for the purpose of receiving medical care.” This type of medical care is on the rise among seniors. In fact, two of my friends traveled out of the country for medical procedures.

My friend David had his teeth capped in Costa Rica. Interestingly, he told me an American doctor from California did the work. He also told me that it cost him much less than he would have paid at home. He was happy with the work. As a matter of fact, he ended up liking Costa Rica so much that he went back to visit several times, both for additional dental work and pleasure.

I read that dental implants are one of the most common medical travel procedures.

Some people take a long vacation when they travel abroad for medical treatments. One friend went to Serbia for a facelift and stayed for one month. Toward the end, he had some fun, too!

Some countries actually specialize in different medical fields. Based on David’s account and some other articles I read, Costa Rica is as famous for its dental work as its natural wonders and amazing coffee. Meanwhile, South Korea is the place for plastic surgery. Many excellent plastic surgeons also reside in Brazil, while Turkey offers eye care.

Reportedly, the savings for medical travel treatments is 15% to 75%, after deducting your travel expenses.

The benefits of medical tourism include:

• Affordability
• High-quality care
• Talented surgeons
• Reduced waiting time
• Vacation

Of course, there are plenty of cons to medical tourism, as well. The CDC actually issued health warnings for travelers to Mexico about the Zita Virus, Hepatitis A, and unsanitary conditions.

Personally, I think that medical tourism for dental work might be best. However, I’m content with my dentist here in the States. I don’t judge anyone who’s convinced that medical tourism is the way to go. Based on recent statistics, more and more people agree that it’s the right choice for them.

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