Medical Tourism: What You Need to Know

Medical tourism is making headlines as of late due to the increased numbers of Americans traveling abroad for medical procedures, ranging from dental work to open heart surgery. Why are so many crossing borders for health care? According to experts, it's because medical travelers often receive treatment for one-tenth of the cost of treatment in the United States.

Why the Price Disparity?

A simple root canal in the States can cost you upwards of $1,800. If you travel south to Mexico, however, you would only pay about $250 for the same treatment. On the more serious end of things, a kidney transplant would cost you about $140,000 here in the U.S. But, if you travel to Pakistan for the procedure, you would pay under $16,000—and that price includes finding a donor match.

According to experts, there are a few basic reasons for the medical price disparities across the border:

• The cost of labor is cheaper
• Rental space (for medical facilities) is cheaper
• Lab work (including x-rays) is cheaper

And with such savings at stake, foreign medical care seems worth it. But what about the quality of the work? Do you get what you pay for? What will insurance cover?

Considerations for the Medical Traveler

You might be surprised to learn that countries like India, Pakistan and Thailand are home to experienced medical specialists with the latest technologies. And while some of the facilities may remind you more of a resort than a surgical ward, you'll still need to look into the following before jumping on the medical tourism bandwagon:

• Where you receive treatment. When it comes to crossing the boarder for health care, you're on your own. This means doing a lot of research to make sure you'll be in good hands.
• Your recovery time. Major surgery means major time to recoup. Also keep in mind that you'll need to stay abroad to complete your follow-up care.
• Travel costs. Remember, you'll be responsible for round-trip travel, as well as lodging accommodations while you recover. Depending on the seriousness of your procedure, you could be in for an extended stay.
• Travel time. Driving across the border to fill a few cavities might not wreak havoc on your body, but a 12-hour flight might if you've had major surgery.
• Your health insurance. It's very unlikely that your insurance company will pay for medical or dental treatment outside of the U.S. Your insurance may also decline expenses related to complications and follow-up care you may require once you return to the States.

Information Is Key

When it comes to traveling abroad for health care, information is key. Always check with your health insurance provider first to learn what procedures will and won't be covered.