Medical tourism

Scope

While many students from foreign countries have come to the U.S. to obtain their education, the tables have begun to be turned. These students have recently found that practicing in their home country is an appealing option and they have returned to their homeland. Because of this, many of the countries that participate in medical tourism offer U.S. board certified providers.

Regulatory citations

• None

Key definitions

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Summary of requirements

The waiting time for many procedures is relatively short or non-existent. This is very appealing to many patients who have busy life-styles and can plan on very short notice when to schedule their visits. Upfront estimates from the various hospitals and physicians are usually available. This allows patients to make determinations on whether it would be beneficial for them in each particular case.

Cosmetic surgery is often associated with medical tourism. However, although it has been a popular elective surgery since it is typically not covered by insurance, other types of surgery also fall into the elective category.

Heart bypass, hip or knee replacement, hysterectomy, spinal fusion, and dental surgery are all common elective surgeries to name a few. Weight-loss surgery such as bariatric or lap band, is projected to become very popular in the near future. Many times these are excluded from coverage under insurance plans and consumers are looking to other countries where the cost is much less.

Drawbacks: One of the main concerns is the quality of care that consumers will receive. That is why it is vital that anyone considering medical tourism as an option should do their homework in advance. Much research should be conducted as to the background and credentials for both the hospitals and providers chosen.

Many times a company will promote the usage of medical tourism by offering an incentive to its employees. Typically these would be cash incentives such as waiving the deductible, co-pay, coinsurance to the employee, covering travel costs for the patient and family members, or offering a percentage of the savings to the employee. It is still a win-win proposition for both parties.

AMA guidelines: The American Medical Association (AMA) has acknowledged the impact of medical tourism on the health care industry by issuing guidelines and advocates that employers, insurance companies, and other entities that facilitate or incentivize medical care outside the U.S. adhere to their principles.

Individual states have begun to issue laws regarding the use of medical tourism, so always check with your state for the latest regulatory updates.