Other Medical Traveler Costs to Consider
When considering medical tourism, think of these additional costs for medical travelers that may not be included in your surgery package.
Pre-operation Exams
Even with a complete medical record and personal physician referral, the doctor and hospital abroad will want to perform their own tests to make sure you are a good candidate for the procedure. The tests are usually included with the total cost, but there may be additional tests needed, especially if you have a complicated medical history or have a chronic condition.
Additional Treatments
Complications and additional treatments usually arise when the patient does not disclose important information in their medical history. Make sure you are 100% honest with your doctor. Your doctor needs to know any medication you’re taking, previous surgeries and all other medical conditions.
Accommodations an Transportation
Some medical tourism surgery packages will include this. But if you are just checking out prices for the procedure, consider the price of airfare and local transportation. There might also be post-surgery care and facility costs added.
Medication
Medications may vary depending on how well the procedure goes. So painkillers, antibiotics, anti-clotting drugs may not be included with the price of your travel and procedure. Additional medications might also be prescribed. So these costs are extra.
Unexpected Complications
Ask about possible and common complications regarding your procedure. It’s important to understand the potential risks and complications associated with your procedure and lower these risks as much as possible. You should also ask ahead of time what to do if these complications occur and what the hospital protocol is.
Longer Hospital Stay
It is not always predictable how well you will recover after a procedure. You should know ahead of time what the hospital costs are if you need to stay additional days.