Medicine Introduction Center

Posts Tagged ‘Tourism’

Groups Help medical tourism
Since

Medical tourism is a very vital part of health care is only vital that you examine the various issues and questions raised on the subject. Currently, there are a variety of organizations to continue to monitor the activities and practices around the world to ensure that patients receive better treatment and health insurance available. You must learn about organizations that can take precautions to stay healthy and safe.

About groups

There are a number of factors to consider when going for medical tourism. Some of these inclusions are the quality assurance practices and evidence-based medicine and international health accreditation. In the United States, the International Joint Commission or the JCI accreditation is the most well loved group. Since 1999, the group has been testing and accreditation of health facilities outside the United States. Many medical institutions are now to be accredited by JCI helps them gain the confidence of many American patients.

The Joint Commission is related to the JCI U. S.. The two groups are independent of the private groups that operate for profit. These groups are trying to develop national and international standards recognized and processes to improve patient safety and health. These groups work with the various hospitals to ensure that health care organizations meet the standards of health care /> Groups More

Trent International Accreditation System in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom is also considered an vital agency in the field of medical tourism. Accreditation systems may change groups in terms of cost, size, quality, competence and purpose. The cost to health groups and hospitals may also change. A number of hospitals with the aim of international accreditation of two. JCI is responsible for attracting American patients, while Trent is right to appeal to European customers.

Before going for any group of doctors abroad, you must check the background first and question a number of credits to ensure that only these are professionals who are well trained and updated about the latest practices and technologies. Do not follow this practice can lead to perilous and life-threatening procedures.

The Medical Tourism Association is a pioneer of trade for non-profit medical tourism. It is composed of health professionals, international hospitals, insurance companies, travel consultants and other medical organizations are committed to providing patients with health care in the world of excellent. The three principles of the agency are communication, education and transparency.

SOFIHA or the International Society for the accreditation of health care is another group that provides forums and debates on current practice and patient care ideal. The group’s role is to ensure that hospitals provide the best environment for the treatment of patients.

UKAF or United Kingdom Accreditation Forum is another fantastic network, formed by groups of accreditation in order to share new thoughts and the standard practice to help organizations in implementing the standards of safe and successfully. Some of the network’s activities include training, evaluation, recuritment, supervision and recognition awards accreditation of health facilities.

Tourism in the region of Tanga (Tanzania)
Tourism

UTAL Tanga “

Travel Tanga ‘Utalii Tanga”

Introduction

When we speak of Tourism of Tanzania, which is usually the well-known mountain. Kilimanjaro, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti and the spice island of Zanzibar, which comes to mind, it may be due to other destinations such as Tanga remained unpretentious, and have hardly been exposed to the outside world.

For tourists and travelers in the region of Tanga in Tanzania is another site that is adorned by the gorgeous environment, eye – catching landscape, unique culture and people forced. With its beaches, bordering the Indian Ocean legendary mountain rising from the major rivers whispering Usambara and lush vegetation add to the beauty of the area that has just appeared on the tourist map of Tanzania.

Tanga Region

has a rich history that is developed and fascinating right tales of explorers such as Basque de Gama, Arab and Indian trade settlement activities, the slave trade, the arrival of German settlers and finally, the British government.

Tanga has four main centers marked for tourism activities. Tanga City is the capital of the region. On the banks of the fantastic Indian Ocean, from which radiate all activities to other parts of the region. The city is rich in history and natural attractions, the architecture of the time and water sports. South of the city of Tangier was an vital commercial center of the 19th century Pangani. San has some of the most spectacular beaches in the country, pollution is an brilliant beach holiday destination. Further south is the small known today Saadani Game Reserve Saadani National Park beach and wildlife.

Tanga West and East Usambara is a gorgeous hill station called Amani. Is the nest of the flora and fauna. Tea plantations on the slopes and a tranquil atmosphere that Amani a wonderful haven for tourists ecological environment. Tanga has remained somewhat unclear. In the conflict between development and modern methods of traditional life, Tanga was unnoticed in the tourist map of Tanzania. Only in recent years fans of Tanga has taken steps to rehabilitate and develop their heritage forgotten land trampled.

Epic battles were fought in Tanga First World War between the Germans and the British. At the beginning of the war in November 1914, British troops landed consists of 7000 Indians on the beach in thong Raskazone. But, the Germans were well prepared and have inflicted a severe blow to the British. The German army is made up of Askar Africa were led by British Major von Lettow.The Tanga is captured in mid-1916 with a ground offensive in northern Tanzania Taveta. Official presentation of the German hospital was signed in the cliff overlooking the ocean sparkling BLOCK Indian with a tasty English breakfast. The cemeteries of the war and the commemoration of the First World War still exists, that reminds us of the heroes who gave their lives for others.

“Tanga is gorgeous beyond imagination”

Tanga Region has many areas of tourist attractions that have not yet fully developed. Its economy is mainly based on agriculture with cash crops such as sisal, cashew nuts, coffee, cotton, etc. dominate. It also produce a wide variety of fruits throughout the year with excellent rainfall and soil fertility. But, these crops are in the doldrums due either to lack of re – processing plants and markets investment because the farmer does not pay according to their efforts. The sector employs over 90% of the population. Given the situation, the need to diversify into another area offering employment opportunities to local residents and area youth. This area is none other than tourism.

reviewed the National Tourism Policy

The new national tourism policy encourages private initiative to the parties holding the country’s tourism. This has enabled the tourism industry and a quicker pace. Currently, the sector contributes 25% of the country’s export earnings and employs about 25,000 people a year. Hence the need for the project.

Tourism Justification

Given the fact that Tanga has tourist sites are not yet developed the need for this project is imminent and justified given the facts as follows: –

tourism potential of the region has not yet been fully exploited, therefore, the project will act as a catalyst for the flow of more tourists thanks to its offer opportunities implementación.Se employment, especially after the collapse of the industry sisal, the closure of the fertilizer company Tanzania (TFC) steel mills and many others who offer employment to a large number of indigenous peoples in the region Tanga.Con the influx of tourists to other services regions automatically grow up too. This means that most hotels and guesthouses will be built and existing will be improved. This leads to the overall development of the region.The region and country you will generally make more money in terms of currency extranjera.Con development of human resources through more employment opportunities within the standards of life in Tanga project elevará.El market through advertising and promotional campaigns will ensure the arrival of more tourists, therefore, the development of existing tourist sites and thus, by implication, the development of the region as a whole. Location and access

Location

Tanga Region is in the eastern part of northern Tanzania and is composed of seven districts of the city of Tanga is Handeni, Korogwe, Lesotho, Muheza and Pangani. East of the region is surrounded by the Indian Ocean, along the south coast region and Morogoro region, while the northern border and north-west with the Republic of Kenya and Kilimanjaro and Arusha regions, respectively . The western part of the border region of Dodoma.

Given the location of the region boasts a long stretch of coastline with gorgeous sandy beaches. Besides its own attractions that limit the border areas of regions that cover the northern tourist circuit consisting of Kilimanjaro in Arusha, Lake Manyara, Tarangire, which are names of parks for most tourists, and do not forget the eighth Wonder of the World Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. South of the region are the Mikumi, Udzungwa Mountains National Park Reserve Selous, who is also the most vital game of the reserve in the world and the city of Morogoro, where you can see the historic graves Kingo late founder Morogoro.

It was mentioned that the border region of the coastal region, which consists of historical sites in Bagamoyo, where one is forced to see the buildings of the German and Arabic. In general, one might say, the region in addition to its own tourist attractions are also close to most tourist attractions available in the country.

Access 3.1.2 The area is well served in terms of communication. There is an asphalt road all season D’Salaam, where you can get in Dar es Salaam from anywhere in the world through the international airport of Dar D’or by sea. From there you can take the shuttle and / pr heating, self drive cars provided by our travel agents and travel on this road to get to Tanga. The boats are also regular services between the ports of Dar es Salaam, Pemba, Zanzibar, Tanga and Mombasa. Tanga has its own airport, which is controlled by the government, which can be invoked with a charter flight services are available in Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar and Mombasa in Kenya. The tour of the North is well connected to the D’Dar Tanga-Moshi – Arusha all paved roads – the road. The same applies to Morogoro, where you can use this way to be connected to Chalinze then Tanzam Morogoro highway. The neighborhoods are well served by roads all murram weather.
Telephone and cellular service are available. Services are connected to international services and you can dial any destination in the world without any difficulty.

Climate and surveyor 3.1.9 The region covers an area that is found from sea level to about 600 meters. Most of the strengths of the range consists of the Usambara Mountains. Other areas are undulating plains with a variety of pastures and trees. The climate is diverse, with coastal zone with a warm climate, while Lesotho has a cool climate to the extent that has been called the Switzerland of Africa.
Rainfall is bimodal, ranging from 800 – 1600 mm per year. This differs from one region to another.

4.0.0 Current project:
The company expects to welcome tourists by organizing hotel reservations, offers individual and group visits to tourist attractions in Tanga Region and the regions neighbors. But, the need to appear briefly describe the main tourist attractions available in the Tanga region also has facilities that are in the region to ensure a pleasant and unforgettable stay in a tourist area. 4.1.0

Tourist Attractions in Tanga Region attractions of the region can also be grouped into the following groups: –
– oriented Cultural sites />
– natural forest reserves.
– game reserves and national parks

4.1.1 Culture-based sites
All <-! NextPage -> Coastal Zone that stretches from San Tanga gives a kind of dressing kanzu Swahili culture and Kofi BuiBui for men and women. You can also see the men play a game called “Bao” during the night, while the women are weaving different colors. heena mats or themselves with their hands and feet with a variety of models. When you leave the coastal districts of Muheza, Handeni, Korogwe, Lesotho and Kilindi, there is a slight change in the dressing and culture. There are some places where some mutual cultural ceremonies are still performed, such as those made by the Culture site in the village of Wakilindi Kwagunda Taragunda and many others in the area and areas Zigua Bondei Wasambaa.
These ceremonies may include rain making ceremonies where they play a variety of drums and musical instruments and dance play in marriage decisions.

4.1.2 Historic sites and
Archaoelogical Tanga There are many areas of interest for tourists such as historical and archaeological sites. These are:

Cuevas Amboni Amboni caves are located near Tanga few miles from the center of the city of Tanga on the way to Mombasa. The area is easily accessible when you’re on the road, Mombasa and branches of the left about 8 km. South of the town of Tanga. Amboni caves are among the first institutions with excellent ancient paintings and art objects. When you visit the cave assistants provide fascinating tales of folklore. It is a place to visit.

fortified hill in Ndola
This is an area of ??historical interest, see where you win according to archaeological evidence of Stone Age dating from 100 to 400 AD Additionally you can see the structure of ancient age (caves, for example) that were used by respondents to the defense during tribal wars. This place is Amani and you can see a former German hospital and a cemetery medical. Tongon

a place in the San. Here you can see historic structures / ruins of Arab origin. It’s a place Abushiri was the Sultan of the region lived. Torten Island
The island was visible from Mkonge Bandari House Hotel is also possible in the Tanga Yacht Club. Historically, the island is known as Torten an area where people with incurable diseases were confined to the island. In the German Graves Island buried there in the world, was second in 1945. There is also a historic mosque. There are many species of birds have made their permanent home, and they can not be found anywhere in the world. There are also trees that are not found anywhere and in fact, the island that the conservation needs of the ocean that threatens the lives of these species in the future

German ships:.
These include the courtyard of the tomb of spectecular world first in the city center that remains and many other buildings that are located in the town of Tanga and easily accessible.
There are many areas in Pangani, Lesotho, Korogwe and Handeni districts of interest to tourists. But, due to the negligence does not reflect its historical significance. But, some efforts are underway to rehabilitate the sites considered significant.

Game 4.1.3 Forests and Nature Reserves:
Tanga region consist mainly of game reserves that are controlled as Mkomazi Mwakijembe and forest reserves and many others, as Shuman and Magamba and several of its seven districts making up the Tanga region. Tanga Region has recently ordered the National Park before the game Saada Reserve consists of two against one, it is unique in the world. It is very vital here to elaborate on the Amani Nature Reserve (ANR) and the surrounding islands of the town of Tanga.
Amani Nature Reserve (ANR)
Natural Park was made in May 1997 and covers an area of ??8380 hectares. The NRA has a high degree of endemic flora and Foundation and are right representatives of the rainforest mountains with a cold climate, while in Ecuador and the Indian Ocean. It is an ideal place for ecotourism.

Amani Nature Reserve (ANR) has been called “the last paradise” is a paradise of nature in the sense that the flora and fauna are unique. The species composition is very diverse, with a complex structure of very large trees and height (60 meters) exist throughout the NRA, while below the different types and species of climbing plants such as weeds bryophytes, epiphytes and vines supported by trees . These features make the NRA a suitable place for eco-tourism which could be used for human pleasure to carry out activities such as observing wildlife enjoying the natural beauty and tourism, hiking , camping, hiking, picnicking and boating learning fishmg while maintaining its ecological processes and stability in the region.

Amani Nature Reserve also has one of the most fantastic botanical gardens in Africa. This garden was started by the Germans in 1902, including the first nursery in Tanganyika. Amani Botanical Gardens (ABG) has an area of ??350 hectares, the German planted nearly 900 different species of trees native and exotic from around the world. Thus, the NRA is the center of biodiversity. floristic composition is very diverse and there are 2012 vascular plant species per hectare. Thus, a proposal of most endemic species are found in the NRA .

also among the rare animals, birds and butterflies NRA are very rare in other parts of the world. There are also some rare types of chameleons, lizards, snakes and amphibians. Therefore The Amani Nature Reserve is a place worth visiting for those who want to witness for themselves endemic species within its natural inhabitants.

installations

and services available on the NRA:
There is an information center known as signs Information Center. The center can provide information about trails, campgrounds, picnic areas, etc. to within the ANR. There is a nursing home with 10 rooms that are misleading independent and comfortable as Amani Rest House and within walking distance. Six campsites have been identified and developed these signs include Kwamkoro Amani Centre, Forest Station Monga and Ndola-Kiganga These sites were chosen because of its location, which could be used as observation points and the fact that certain basic services, water and bathrooms are in place.

While the Amani Nature Reserve, we are able to see the cultural and historical sites as well. NRA is an ideal place for development studies, scientific research and biodiversity. The NRA was used for research programs in the small term and long-term forest anthropology, botany, zoology, ecology and social development. Therefore, the NRA is not just for the environment – tourism and economic development, but its importance is also in the production of relevant knowledge and information deemed necessary for our survival and sustainable development

Islands around the town of Tanga Island Torten.
The island can be seen in Mkonge Hotel / Inn by the Swim Club to sea / Raskazone and Tanga Yacht Club. Historically, the island known as an area of ??local cakes herbs in which people with incurable diseases were confined to the island. The island is the original name of Tanga and the tribe of origin of the life of people there say. As the people living there crossed the city from there to the meaning “KWITANGA” symbol to the town called Tanga Tanga Cristerna and then under that name by the Germans.

Island Leg
The island can be seen in the region of Raskazone which is 30 km from the port of Tanga on the reefs of the Indian Ocean in the port of Tanga. Historically Leg island is home to the local tribe who lived by fishing Wadigo. The island has a large number of species found nowhere else in the world. Large reptiles, such as different colored snakes, giant tortoises and birds that live there as a permanent residence. There are also large color guerrillas. There is a coastal forest tree species found only there. These must be preserved as Tanga is nearly a desert due to deforestation and charcoal for domestic use and burning of limestone for the manufacture of hydrated lime. This island has an area of ??230 square meters and is to visit tourist attractions.

Rulenge Island Rulenge island is 30 km from Leg island in the south of the town of Tanga. This island was hunting since merged with Nyamaku island, but because of sea erosion and becomes disintegrated isolated island. There were certainly ways to live, as are the houses and the remains of the mosque and the church left behind. Ulenga island is known for wildlife such as giraffes and many other Dig Dig, where fishermen applies to hunting.

The authorities of the city of Tanga not know much about these islands Ulenga Leg knowledge and Nyamaku but are internationally known as having a large number of species of about 333 species and are subject to conservation, in particular the erosion of the sea in order to preserve the animals and species that are there. These have been designated in the Eastern Arc Mountains of the East Usambara (CERF) Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund.

The natural forest of them, the island, the coastal forests are a large number of species and biodiversity, where there are several endemic species, especially plants.
The islands are favorable places for tourists and are excellent for camping sites. The islands are excellent for tourist hotels.

Nyamaku Island: Island
Nyamaku Mwambani just outside the city center and close Mwarongo <- NextPage -> island. Nyamaku Island is an island marked heard by the CEPF in danger and requires immediate conservation, because species that live there have lost if the erosion of the sea continues to deteriorate the surface. Nyamaku island has many species found nowhere else in the world. The fishermen were hunting and frustration of his life. This island is located in the Eastern Arc Mountains Conservation, as in sport hot fund critical programs for the environment.

Mwarongo Mwarongo Island is one of the hot zone for the 160 sites to fund vital programs for the environment is preserved, “because the 333 species threatened with protection and conservation. Mwarongo has many attractions for tourists, but has not yet been explored and Tanga community are not aware of the importance and what it is.

Eco – Tourism Amani Tanga

“The Last Paradise”
Amani Nature Reserve (ANR) was formally established in May 1997 by notification of the Government No. 151. The NRA has an area of ??8380 hectares around excellent forest management, including some 1065 hectares of forest in the East Usambara Tea Co. Ltd (SOSIC) administered as part of the NRA. watershed forests have been upgraded to a nature reserve for its species richness, biodiversity values ??and high absorption of water. The NRA has a high degree of endemic flora and fauna and are a right representative of the tropical mountain forests with a cold climate, while the state near the line of the Equator and the Indian Ocean.

The NRA is an ideal product for ecotourism. The term “ecotourism” Ecotourism implies a certain type of natural resources used for human pleasure (relaxation and pleasure) without affecting the ecological functions and its ability to continue.

With ecotourism people are able to perform certain activities such as game viewing, enjoying the natural beauty or sightseeing, hiking, camping, hiking, picnicking, boating, fisheries and the maintenance of sound ecological learning process and the stability of the respective areas of use. These activities must be conducted in a manner that is compatible with conservation objectives. It is also expected that revenue from ecotourism activities will be generated. The funds will be used to improve conservation. I work and is also used to promote the socio-economic development for local communities nearby (for example, by providing material and financial support to community projects and activities).
The NRA has all the qualities of Eco Tourism. It is a paradise of nature in the sense that the flora and fauna are unique. These species composition are very different and unique with a complex structure. very large trees and height (60 meters) exist in all the NRA. Below them are many types of species of plants including climbers, parasitic plants, bryophytes, epiphytes and lianas, with the support of all the trees.
These features make the NRA a suitable area for eco-tourism. This is a natural habitat type that many people in other parts of the world have never seen or have disappeared. For example, many city dwellers in the developed world have never seen a very large trees and high, or a complex plant community as Amani. So the NRA is visited by tourists and many others. Amani Botanical Garden (ABG)
The NRA includes one of the largest botanical gardens in Africa, which was initiated by the Germans in 1902, including the first nursery in Tanganyika. GBS covers about 350 ha of land and immediately started a few meters from the gateway and information center Sigi.
The German planted about 900 different species of native and exotic trees from around the world. But, about 300 species are now in the botanical garden in excellent shape and we see the effort. There are plans underway to rehabilitate and manage the ABG at the height of a botanical garden of renown.

endemic and rare species.
The NRA is part of the mountain forests of the East Usambara forest also part of the Arc Mountains of the World is recognized as a “biodiversity,” “hot spot” According to the World Conservation Monitoring Centre and center (1992), the East Usambara and in particular, the NRA is a center for biological diversity. The floristic composition is very diverse and there are 2012 vascular plant species per hectare. Furthermore, it was reported that 25.30% of the plants in the East Usambara are endemic,

species richness in the forest Usambara Mountains endemnism is developed by Rodgers and Homewood (1982) . Therefore, a large proportion of endemic species are found in the NRA. Examples of endemic plant species are Saintpaulia (African violet) in the world there are 21 species of Saintpaulia and 19 of them are in Tanzania. In addition to the species found in Tanzania, 15 are in the Usambara Mountains. About. seven or eight of these species are endemic to the Usambara and occur in the NRA species are: – Saintpaulia Saintpaulia difficilis
Saintpaulia Saintpaulia Saintpaulia intermediate proteinuria mongensis Var var pendula Saintpaulia Saintpaulia Saintpaulia minimum Mongensis tongensis pendula pendula var pendula var Kizare
Apart from other species Saintpaulia species are endemic to the region.

The examples are Usambararensis Cola, Cola greenwayi, Cynometra Engler longipendicellata Cola, Cola Brachiyrradis, Vitex Englerodendron amaniensis usambarensis, Ocotea usambarensis and Greenwayodendron usambarensis sorindeia suaveolens name a few . As recently as 1980 the two species were found in the East Usambara and mongensis Tanzaniae Euvalia Coffea disiovered Amani area thereby increasing the number of endemic species.

animals are also within the RNA and rare birds. Visitors can see birds such as the Amani sunbird. (A threptes pallidigaster) the long horror – (horrified Moreau) and Green servitude sunbird (A rubritorgues trapezius), which is rare outside of the East Usambara, often rare species that may be of interest to visitors to the Red Usambara led Bill Blue and green headed Oriole Bird type. There are also some rare types of chameleons, lizards, snakes and amphibians. So the NRA is ideal for those wanting to show their own endemic species in their natural habitats.

Facilities:
Some services are available and more services are developed to ensure that visitors delight in their visit to the ANR up, including the information center Sigi, nursing homes. camping and nature trails and picnic areas are

information Sigi Center The information center is located within the NRA, near the entrance Sigi.: L former German station railway masters house has been restored and turned into an information center. Information on the nature trails or campsites city guides is available here. The cards are also sold here.

rental houses a nursing home were built new Sigi only near the front door. has ten rooms, separate bedrooms and relatively large. Other nursing home nursing homes are Aman. Expenses are

Medical Tourism: the Next Huge Thing in Healthcare Industry

Medical tourism is the act of touring different countries or nations around the world to receive medications like dental, neurosurgery or surgical care and various other forms of specialized treatments. Medical tourism or healthcare facilitation is very cost effective and has grown to become very well loved with time. Due to much technological advancement and improvement, standards of care and the affordability of international travel have become the primary factors leading to the popularity of medical tourism.

In the past few years, the costs of medical treatment or health care have soared high in industrialized nations and developed countries. And with this rise in health care costs, people from USA, Europe, Canada and Australia are seeking alternatives to reduce their expenses and build financial savings. This has prompted the people of developed countries serve as medical tourists.

Among all the nations where people are going for low cost medical treatments, India has emerged as a significantly favorable destination or a top hot spot. India is, now, one of the leading countries promoting medical tourism. With an increasing number of outside patients flocking to India for low cost medical treatments, India’s medical tourism industry is doing pretty fine.

The focal attraction for the medical tourists is the price factor or medical costs. Medical tourists believe that, in India, the cost of surgery or other treatments is one tenth of what it is in European countries or in developed nations. The concept of medical tourism is new to many people and it is up to them whether or not they will find the desired medical treatment at a minimum cost. Medical technology has improved drastically in Indian hospitals and their standards have increased too, being at par with American and European countries.

Among all the various treatments that are done in India, the commonest are heart surgery, Lasik eye surgery, cosmetic surgery, neurosurgery and dental care. India has some of the best hospitals and treatment centers in the world with the best facilities. Infrastructure, technology advancement, outstanding doctors and medical staffs, world-class hospitals, all these have made India the prime location or the top choice for medical tourists seeking overseas health care.

The highlights of medical tourism in India are as follows:

·India has world-class medical facilities, with brilliant staff in all areas of medical care

·Consultation with leading doctors or specialists

·Indian hospitals are equipped with the latest electronic and medical diagnostic equipments

·Low cost medical treatment or health checkups

·Luxurious rooms within affordable ranges

·Accommodation for attendants or accompanying family members are provided

·Ayurveda Therapy and Spa resorts available for relaxing and refreshing

·Exclusive Indian cuisines, Indian movies, Indian music and Indian dance

·Diversified cultural heritage in the different states

·Some top tourist destination spots like Taj Mahal, Red Fort, Qutab Minar etc.

·Holidaying, family reunions, festive occasions and medical checkups—all in one tour to India

Although there are many countries giving world-class medical help to the medical tourists who are seeking overseas healthcare or low cost healthcare, India attracts the most. Since it offers a gorgeous holiday destination, apart from having a wide variety of low cost medical treatments, excellent hospitals and medical staffs, it is the foremost choice among people. Medical tourism India or health tourism India is an emerging concept whereby people from all over the world visit India for their medical and relaxation needs.

Medical Tourism: Why so well loved ?

In less than a decade, the medical tourism industry has become a multimillion dollar business. A growing number of travelers from the United States, Britain, Canada, and the places in the Middle East, South Africa and South America traveling to international destinations for your health and health care. Why medical tourism has become so well loved?

Understanding the growing need for medical care
The most vital factors to quality health care include accessibility, affordability, and convenience. Rising health care costs and the uncertainty of the structures of health care in the United States has led many Americans to travel beyond the borders for more affordable health care. Million “Baby Boomers” uncertain of their Medicare coverage and to seek care outside U.S. borders well loved treatment in orthopedics, chronic disease care and cancer care.

Why is the market growing?
Thanks to the Internet, access to information and resources and a growing understanding of medical tourism and health care options, individuals are able to access and providers of medical research in countries foreigners with the click of a mouse.

medical providers offer resources such as people around the world PlacidWay a rich resource when it comes to accreditation, certification, transparent pricing, options for health practices and medical care and procedures that can be loved in foreign destinations in dozens of countries around the world.

Today’s consumers want :

prices asequiblesGarantía seguridadAlojamiento quality and support the recovery process viajesDespués services of apoyoAccesibilidad

In a single year, more than 400,000 international patients visited Bangkok, Thailand for medical care, while other destinations around the world, including Croatia, Ukraine and South Africa are growing in popularity. Singapore, Thailand, South Korea and Japan remain the market leaders in the field of medical tourism, such as India, while a growing number of exotic destinations, gorgeous in Mexico and South America and Costa Rica are following closely.

Choose a Medical Tourism Company
Medical tourism companies are growing at a pace even with a growing number of accredited and certified medical providers and facilities worldwide. The choice between them is not always simple. In the search for a medical tourism company, seeking the best in quality service. These services should include:

transparent pricing – Look for providers who offer upfront cost ranges or transparent for a variety of treatments and procedures without having to jump through hoops, make phone calls, or be placed in the list to call someone to get basic information tal.ofrece to travel – medical tourism companies often enter into alliances with foreign doctors. Find companies that offer medical tourism travel packages and support, and help finding accommodation, arranging airport pickup and return, prior to the procedure of consultations and laboratory work, and after treatment or postoperative care before heading back to casa.Recursos and information – Find providers of medical services that provide detailed information on a variety of medical conditions, treatments and procedures. This information helps doctors travelers informed and educated decisions about their health care decisions and options tratamiento.Calificaciones – medical tourism companies must provide information on the qualifications, experience and training of health care providers in all fields medicine to facilitate consumer access.

Conclusion
Today’s consumers want more choices and options when it comes to your health. Medical tourism companies need to make information transparent access to international travelers in relation to treatment, destinations, prices and travel plotting. The best medical tourism companies to do this, and more, for health tourism and world-class health care viable, and the patient to come into focus of their services.

Step by Step Guide to Medical Tourism

Going overseas for surgical treatment can be overwhelming for anyone. After all, it’s not like going to a hospital on the way in which they have been before and know all the doctors and nurses. To succeed in its quest for quality care at low cost medical discharge, not a step by step process to follow to gain confidence in their choice, get the right care and save money.

STEP 1: Learn about the MEDICAL TOURISM TRENDS
Find out why everyone is raving about it and why they are willing to travel halfway around the world for him. Learning from the experience of others. Read news and feature articles on the subject. Check out the FAQs that medical tourists have at https: / / www.healthbase.com / hb / pages / medical-tourism-faq.jsp.

STEP 2: RESEARCH ON THE PROCEDURE />
Find out everything you can about the medical procedure in question - problems than it solves, follow-up care needed, physical therapy required, etc. This will help to clarify three questions: is the procedure right for your condition , are you the right candidate for the procedure, and must go abroad to

.
STEP 3: FIND OUT IF MEDICAL TOURISM IS WHAT YOU WANT
Medical tourism is not always a excellent choice for emergency medical treatments. Sometimes transport costs may outweigh the potential savings achievable by going abroad. In some cases, the time required for surgery abroad can be too much for you to spare. Or, the surgery you need may not be available overseas with a health care provider in excellent standing.

STEP 4: INFORMATION ON MEDICAL TOURISM DESTINATION
Some countries have a reputation of high quality cardiac surgery while others for world-class orthopedic, but for other cosmetic procedures. So make your choice wisely. Sometimes distance can also play an vital role in their choice making, as in the case of small dental work. You should also prepare for cultural differences.

STEP 5: INFORMATION SERVICES INTERNATIONAL AND SURGEONS
To investigate any health care provider try to find answers to the following:
Does the hospital or clinic uses the latest equipment and technology? Do you have experience in the medical procedure you are looking for? What accreditations and awards do they have? If surgeons qualified enough? Where do you get your education and training?
Answering these questions will give a honest thought of the quality standard of the supplier.

STEP 6: Organize all your medical records
You need at the time of prior consultation with the surgeon abroad, and when they go abroad for surgery. Depending on the condition in question, the medical records you need are the following. X-rays, X-ray reports, MRI, health histories, photographs, immunization records, medications, etc.

STEP 7: APPLICATION AND COMPARISON />
The costs of health care vary from country to country and provider to provider. So request for quotes and compare them. Your selection of a particular provider and country should be based not only on the low cost, but also in quality as well as distance.

STEP 8: CHECK WITH YOUR INSURANCE COVERAGE
With the numerous benefits that medical tourism offers, today some insurance companies have medical tourism plans. Therefore, if you are covered by a plot of medical treatment abroad, your insurer might cover your medical tourism expenses in full or in part. So check with your health insurance company for more details.

STEP 9: GET YOUR PASSPORT AND VISA
If you and / or your traveling companion (if any) has no passport, you must buy. Check with the embassy of the foreign country if a visa is required for entry and apply accordingly.

STEP 10: PLOT YOUR ITINERARY
When plotting your itinerary, sufficient time for recovery. Be prepared to stay longer / shorter than expected. If you have travel or tourism in mind, allow time for that.

Step 11: Reserves ROOMS AND
Book tickets for you and your partner. After surgery, you can choose to relax at a spa or a hotel or go on trips abroad. So if possible, make arrangements beforehand.

STEP 12: APPLY FOR />
Consider buying one of the small-term health and emergency help policies designed for travelers. Travel insurance covers medical tourists by unforeseen problems, from a canceled flight to a serious illness.

STEP 13: REQUEST FOR MEDICAL FINANCE />
If you do not have enough money for medical treatment abroad, you might consider a loan application or loan dental health. loan processing companies offer patient payment plans for plastic surgery, dental procedures, bariatric surgery, dermatology treatments, hospital, etc.

STEP 14: PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR THE RECOVERY
In some cases, you may need to prepare your home for recovery. For example, if you are looking for resurfacing hip surgery affordable abroad, you may want to rearrange the furniture in your house in advance before leaving for aid during the recovery period.

STEP 15: pack your bags and take the />
Make sure you have packed comfortable clothing. Bring local currency, travelers checks and one or two credit cards. Keep vital contact information useful. Bring all necessary medical records. Remember to bring all medical reports and medication in hand luggage. Finally, take your well-plotted medical trip and return home pleased and healthy!

The above step by step guide to medical tourism will help with most aspects of medical tourism. For one way your doctor may want to use a medical tourism provider to help with the logistics of medical tourism. Medical tourism providers like Healthbase (http://www.healthbase.com) is connected with the hospital of their choice while providing many other valuable services.

You can learn more about the growing trend of medical tourism, international healthcare facilities and surgeons, and details of the medical tourism process to enter http://www.healthbase.com. Healthbase.com is a medical tourism facilitator committed to providing low cost high quality medical travel services to the global medical consumer.

Medical Tourism and Global Healthcare – Where Are You Going?

The American Medical Association (AMA) defines medical tourism as “the organized travel outside of one’s health care jurisdiction, usually one’s country, to enhance or restore health through medical intervention.” A less technical definition comes from Harvard Business School, which defines medical tourism as the act of “traveling far and wide for health care that is often better and certainly cheaper than at home.” The practice is also known as health tourism, medtrotting, or cross-border health tourism.

Medical tourism is booming and has now become a billion dollar industry. An estimated 10,000 Americans engage in medical tourism annually, not including cosmetic surgery and dental procedures. Other estimates range from 50,000 to 500,000, including all procedures. In 2005, about 150,000 people worldwide were medical tourists. Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and India are the leading countries in the medical tourism industry.

Though it has become very well loved only in recent years, medical tourism is not a new phenomenon. Indeed, hundreds, even thousands of years ago, people have been to known to visit areas known for their healing powers. In England, the World Heritage City of Bath got its name from the numerous heated mineral springs and roman baths that became quite well loved with the rich and well-known of Europe of the 17th and 18th century. The word “Spa” is taken from a small Belgian town of that name, well-known for its thermal springs. The French Riviera has also a history as a wellness getaway for English and Russian nobilities escaping the cold winters of northern Europe,

In more recent history, medical tourism followed advances in medicine as rich people from developing countries travelled to more developed countries such as the US and the UK. Other countries (e.g. Switzerland) specialized in boutique health services, such as cosmetic surgery and rehabilitation clinics.

Globalization and widespread air travel have triggered the rise in medical tourism, bringing about two major trends in health tourism.

(1) Medical tourism has gone mainstream. Whereas before, only the rich and the well-known could afford to be medical tourists, medical tourism is now accessible to everybody. Hundreds of travel agencies have specialized in this rather lucrative niche. In Europe, where crossing national borders now have fewer restrictions with the inclusion of eastern European countries to the European Union, medical tourism has become widespread. This is aided by the small distances and the fact that the health care destinations are reachable by car, by train or a small flight. For Americans, medical tourism may entail travelling long distances but with cheaper flights, Central American countries have become favorite destinations.

(2) Medical tourism has changed directions. Medical tourism of 50 years ago mainly consisted of trips from a less developed country to a more developed and medically advanced country. Nowadays medical tourism goes in both directions, but mainly in the direction of developing countries where excellent quality but affordable healthcare can be found.

The current trends in medical tourism may be due to the following factors:

(1) Rising health care costs. Rising health care costs in developed countries especially the US are forcing their citizens to seek affordable health care elsewhere. Charges for common procedures such as heart bypass can be ,000 in Thailand compared to 0,000 in the United States. Knee replacement can cost ,000 compared to ,000 in Singapore. This is even encouraged by health insurance companies and employers offering coverage of medical tourism expenses. One case is that of the insurer WellPoint Inc. and a self-funded, Wisconsin-based specialty graphics business called Serigraph. According to reports, “Serigraph will waive co-pays and coinsurance for any of their 650 employees to glide to India for certain non-emergency medical procedures such as major joint replacement and upper and lower back fusion. In addition, Serigraph will pay for all travel expenses for the employee as well as a companion”.

(2) Cross-border medical training. More and more doctors from developing countries have studied and specialized abroad. India, for example, has many doctors trained in the US and the UK who speak brilliant English and fully know the medical needs of medical tourists from Western countries. The same is right for Mexico in relation to the US and Australia in relation to Thailand.

(3) Holistic approach to medicine. The last decade also witnessed the popularity of alternative medicine. More and more people seek out alternative health care such as traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda (India), Unani (Arabic), homeopathy, and herbal medicine, among others. Many countries in Asia offer these types of medicine for Western tourists.

(4) Accreditation. To overcome the scepticism of patients, many medical tourism facilities apply for accreditation. Several American organizations conduct inspections, evaluations of and grant accreditation to medical facilities outside the US. One of these is the Joint Commission International (JCI). More encompassing is accreditation by the International Society for Quality in Healthcare which is the umbrella organization for accreditation agencies in many countries including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Canada and Ireland.

The most well loved destinations are in Asia and Latin America. But, it is estimated that about 50 countries in all continents engage in the industry.

India is on top of the list of favorite medical tourism destinations. According a University of Delaware article “India has top-notch centers for open-heart surgery, pediatric heart surgery, hip and knee replacement, cosmetic surgery, dentistry, bone marrow transplants and cancer therapy, and virtually all of India’s clinics are equipped with the latest electronic and medical diagnostic equipment”. “For example, hip surgery patients in India can opt for a hip-resurfacing procedure, in which hurt bone is scraped away and replaced with chrome alloy–an operation that costs less and causes less post-operative trauma than the traditional replacement procedure performed in the U.S”. Heart bypass goes for ,000 and a hip replacement for ,000, compared with 0,000 and ,000 respectively in the United States”.

Aside from the additional attraction of its holiday destination facilities the beaches of Phuket, Thailand is really well-known for sex-change surgery, which “is one of the top 10 procedures for which patients visit Thailand”.

For Americans, Mexico and Costa Rica are appealing because of their proximity. Arizona retirement communities now organize regular bus tours for Mexican dental work and inexpensive drugs. And tiny border communities, some about an hour from Ciudad Juarez, are becoming dentistry boomtowns to handle an ever-growing flow of American patients flying in from as far away as Alaska”.

Despite the boom in medical tourism and global healthcare the industry remains controversial in several respects.

(1) Health care disparities. A main objection by those who are opposed to medical tourism is the disparities of care delivered by private facilities catering to medical tourists and public health care for local residents. It is estimated more than half of India’s primary health care facilities are not equipped with a labor room, laboratory, or a telephone or stocked with essential medications.

(2) In Vitro Fertilization. In January 2009, a Canadian woman made headlines when she delivered twins at the age of 60. Under Canadian law, the age limit for a woman to have in vitro fertilization (IVF) is 45 to years ancient. India is the home of the world’s oldest first-time mother who delivered a baby girl last November at the age of 70. Laws governing fertility treatments are nearly nonexistent in India, and unlike in many countries, there are no regulations limiting the age of the mother or the number of embryos implanted.

(3) Commercial surrogacy or reproductive outsourcing. This is another form of helped reproduction connected with medical tourism and again India is in the front line. Women whose uteri are not capable of carrying a baby resort to paying other women to be surrogate mothers. In India, women consider this as a respectable way of making money and at the same time help childless women. Commercial surrogacy has been legal in India since 2002, as it is in many other countries, including the United States. But India is the leader in making it a viable industry rather than a rare fertility treatment.

(4) Organ transplantation. One of the shady dealings of medical tourism is organ transplantation. People who are not willing to wait and can afford to pay a lot of money may find other means of getting an organ in developing countries. “Transplant tourism” as it is sometimes called, is thriving in developing countries. In 2006, The Guardian reported that British patients travelled to China to have transplants with organs taken from executed prisoners, “without the prior consent of either the prisoner or their family”.

Medical tourism is on the rise and is expected to become more well loved and acceptable in the future. According to the American Medical Association, “the global economy and changing rules of trade provide opportunities and challenges for the medical profession and public health”. Like in any industry, medical tourism is ruled by supply and demand. There is certainly a lot of demand in developed countries that developing countries willingly supply. But, limits and regulations need to be set in place in order to protect the patients as well as the labor force of the service providers. Only then can the industry be worthy of the term “global healthcare”.

What Is Medical Tourism

Medical tourism (also called medical travel, health tourism or global healthcare) is a term initially coined by travel agencies and the mass media to describe the rapidly-growing practice of traveling across international borders to obtain health care. It also refers pejoratively to the practice of healthcare providers traveling internationally to deliver healthcare[1][2].

Services typically sought by travelers include elective procedures as well as complex specialized surgeries such as joint replacement (knee/hip), cardiac surgery, dental surgery, and cosmetic surgeries. But, virtually every type of health care, including psychiatry, alternative treatments, convalescent care and even burial services are available. As a practical matter, providers and customers commonly use informal channels of communication-connection-contract, and in such cases this tends to mean less regulatory or legal oversight to assure quality and less formal recourse to reimbursement or redress, if needed[citation needed].

Over 50 countries have identified medical tourism as a national industry.[3] But, accreditation and other measures of quality vary widely across the globe, and there are risks and ethical issues that make this method of accessing medical care controversial[citation needed]. Also, some destinations may become hazardous or even perilous for medical tourists to contemplate.

In the context of global health, “medical tourism” is a pejorative because during such trips health care providers often practice outside of their areas of expertise or hold different (i.e., lower) standards of care[4][5]. Greater numbers than ever before of student volunteers, health professions trainees, and researchers from resource-rich countries are working temporarily and anticipating future work in resource-starved areas[5][6]. This emphasizes the importance of understanding this other definition.

History

The concept of medical tourism is not a new one. The first recorded instance of medical tourism dates back thousands of years to when Greek pilgrims traveled from all over the Mediterranean to the small territory in the Saronic Gulf called Epidauria. This territory was the sanctuary of the healing god Asklepios. Epidauria became the original travel destination for medical tourism.

Spa towns and sanitariums may be considered an early form of medical tourism. In eighteenth century England, for example, patients visited spas because they were places with supposedly health-giving mineral waters, treating diseases from gout to liver disorders and bronchitis.[3]

Description

Factors that have led to the increasing popularity of medical travel include the high cost of health care, long wait times for certain procedures, the ease and affordability of international travel, and improvements in both technology and standards of care in many countries.[7]

Medical tourists can come from anywhere in the First World, including Europe, the Middle East, Japan, the United States, and Canada. This is because of their large populations, comparatively high wealth, the high expense of health care or lack of health care options locally, and increasingly high expectations of their populations with respect to health care. An authority at the Harvard Business School recently stated that “medical tourism is promoted much more heavily in the United Kingdom than in the United States”.[8]

A forecast by Deloitte Consulting published in August 2008 projected that medical tourism originating in the US could jump by a factor of ten over the next decade. An estimated 750,000 Americans went abroad for health care in 2007, and the report estimated that a million and a half would seek health care outside the US in 2008. The growth in medical tourism has the potential to cost US health care providers billions of dollars in lost revenue.[9]

A large draw to medical travel is convenience and speed. Countries that operate public health-care systems are often so taxed that it can take considerable time to get non-urgent medical care. Using Canada as an example, an estimated 782,936 Canadians spent time on medical waiting lists in 2005, waiting an average of 9.4 weeks.[10] Canada has set waiting-time benchmarks, e. g. 26 weeks for a hip replacement and 16 weeks for cataract surgery, for non-urgent medical procedures.[11]

Additionally, patients are finding that insurance either does not cover orthopedic surgery (such as knee/hip replacement) or imposes unreasonable restrictions on the choice of the facility, surgeon, or prosthetics to be used. Medical tourism for knee/hip replacements has emerged as one of the more widely accepted procedures because of the lower cost and minimal difficulties associated with the traveling to/from the surgery. Colombia provides a knee replacement for about ,000 USD, including all associated fees, such as FDA-approved prosthetics and hospital stay-over expenses. But, many clinics quote prices that are not all inclusive and include only the surgeon fees associated with the procedure.[12]

According to an article by the University of Delaware publication, UDaily:

”
The cost of surgery in India, Thailand or South Africa can be one-tenth of what it is in the United States or Western Europe, and sometimes even less. A heart-valve replacement that would cost 0,000 or more in the US, for example, goes for ,000 in India–and that includes round-trip airfare and a brief vacation package. Similarly, a metal-free dental bridge worth ,500 in the US costs 0 in India, a knee replacement in Thailand with six days of physical therapy costs about one-fifth of what it would in the States, and Lasik eye surgery worth ,700 in the US is available in many other countries for only 0. Cosmetic surgery savings are even greater: A full facelift that would cost ,000 in the US runs about ,250 in South Africa.[12]
”

Well loved medical travel worldwide destinations include: Argentina, Brunei, Cuba, Colombia, Costa Rica, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Jordan, Lithuania, Malaysia, The Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand, and recently, Saudi Arabia, UAE, South Korea, Tunisia and New Zealand.[3]

Well loved cosmetic surgery travel destinations include: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Mexico and Turkey. In South America, countries such as Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil and Colombia lead on plastic surgery medical skills relying on their experienced plastic surgeons. In Bolivia and Colombia, plastic surgery has also become quite common. According to the “Sociedad Boliviana de Cirugia Plastica y Reconstructiva”, more than 70% of middle and upper class women in the country have had some form of plastic surgery. Colombia also provides advanced care in cardiovascular and transplant surgery.

In Europe Belgium, Poland and Slovakia are also breaking into the business. South Africa is taking the term “medical tourism” very literally by promoting their “medical safaris”.[13]

A specialized subset of medical tourism is reproductive tourism and reproductive outsourcing,[14] which is the practice of traveling abroad to undergo in-vitro fertilization, surrogate pregnancy and other helped reproductive technology treatments including freezing embryos for retro-production.[15]

But, perceptions of medical tourism are not always positive. In places like the US, which has high standards of quality, medical tourism is viewed as risky. In some parts of the world, wider political issues can influence where medical tourists will choose to seek out health care.

Health tourism providers have developed as intermediaries to unite potential medical tourists with provider hospitals and other organisations. Companies are beginning to offer global health care options that will enable North American and European patients to access world health care at a fraction of the cost of domestic care. Companies that focus on medical value travel typically provide nurse case managers to help patients with pre- and post-travel medical issues. They also help provide resources for follow-up care upon the patient’s return.

Process

The typical process is as follows: the person seeking medical treatment abroad contacts a medical tourism provider. The provider usually requires the patient to provide a medical report, including the nature of ailment, local doctor’s opinion, medical history, and diagnosis, and may request additional information. Certified medical doctors or consultants then advise on the medical treatment. The approximate expenditure, choice of hospitals and tourist destinations, and duration of stay, etc., is discussed. After signing consent bonds and agreements, the patient is given recommendation letters for a medical visa, to be procured from the concerned embassy. The patient travels to the destination country, where the medical tourism provider assigns a case executive, who takes care of the patient’s accommodation, treatment and any other form of care. Once the treatment is done, the patient can remain in the tourist destination or return home.

International healthcare accreditation

Because standards are vital when it comes to health care, there are parallel issues around medical tourism, international healthcare accreditation, evidence-based medicine and quality assurance.

The oldest international accrediting body is Accreditation Canada, formerly known as the Canadian Council on Health Services Accreditation, which accredited the Bermuda Hospital Board as soon as 1968. Since then, it has accredited hospitals and health service organizations in ten other countries.

In the United States, the best known accreditation group is the Joint Commission International (JCI). They have been inspecting

Asia Medical Tourism: Huge Bucks, large companies

nearly three million tourists visited Thailand, India, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines last 2007, according to statistical reports, with some two hundred thousand of them visit the Philippines in 2006. But, Manila is struggling and is still lagging behind such countries as the fifth newcomer placement of players in the ballgame medical tourism. But, hope springs eternal.

Philippine government, meanwhile, installed a new government coming under Benigno Aquino III, is strongly emphasizing the importance of developing this sector, as is perceived as a niche tourism strategy “for the coming years. The Tourism Department prepares, focusing on cosmetic surgery as the perfect tone to the surface in the global market, now has enthusiastically jumped on board the train for medical tourism. ”

Filipino physician Dr. Rolando Cabatuan, Vice-President of the Philippine Association of Health Organizations Medical Tourism Inc., says more than 200,000 tourists visiting the country in recent years have driven economy, with an influx of dollars, taking into account 10,000,000 Filipino workers also “acting as sales representatives” in their respective work places to promote the country’s medical services.

Dr. Cabatuan said this would result in a minimum of 10 million “contract” tourists “who may visit Manila as the patient’s use of local medical services at a fraction small price compared to prices in Western countries.

Industry analysts medical tourism “to note that Malaysia and the Philippines, both relatively struggling novice in the world market for medical tourism, will be a strong contender in the next ten years.

And at the beginning of this, the Philippines aims to capture future revenue share whopping U.S. $ billion medical tourism market in Asia since the scenario of industry, which is expected to shoot up to U.S. billion global market in 2012. “countries like Singapore and try to grab a part US.8 billion of this figure and it is doing it.”

The figures speak for themselves.

Take a look at the numbers: According to TravelWeeklyWeb.com, Asia rides high with the tourism market more medical potential worldwide, generating 2007 revenues worth 3.4 billion U.S. dollars, representing nearly 12.7% of the global market

.

The global clientele is growing in numbers: “There will be more than 220 million aging baby boomers of the West, a large market with deteriorating health —- will be seeking care for low-cost, high quality medical, most likely in Asia. “

Price Waterhouse Coopers study says seven percent of world population in 2007, or 42 million people, at least 65 years of age and the number will double by 2015. That is a large customer base for medical tourism.

Meanwhile, market analysts reveal that the aging of Japan — with a population dominated by older people is promoted — as the largest customer base for the global medical tourism market — and the main objective to Asian destinations like the Philippines can get their hands on — to ensure that it complies with its millions of U.S. objective action of industry revenue in Asia.

Recent studies by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies show that as the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare estimates throughout the world million elderly who need care for the elderly is projected to increase to 4 million by the year 2010 and increase further to as high as 5.2 million in 2025.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer reports: “As industry experts see a strong Asian medical tourism market in line, and is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 17.6% between 2007 and 2012, the Philippines can work improving facilities for huge dollars in medical tourism which is said to “make a firm foothold.”

Reports claim: The Philippines is known for its quality of nurses and other health workers who have dominated medical profession in such developed countries as the United States and Britain, a source of foreign patients obtain the assurance of getting the best health care. The medical sector is working hard to see medical tourism flourish because they believe the sector has the potential to address not only economic problems but also the evils that afflict our largest exports: our human resources

.

Philippines medical facilities may, at this stage, still building a reputation for excellence in service, but have place in place mechanisms to address various visiting patients.

Asia Hospital, St. Luke Medical City to name a few have made special departments to deal with cases only with foreigners. For U.S. visitors, the largest motivation is cost savings, since patients can receive standard medical care in the U.S. and health centers in Asia and internationally renowned physicians in a fifth of the price back home. “

s

Researchandmarkets.com ‘figures:” health tourism in the Philippines only started three years ago, in October 2005 but has already achieved considerable success of total revenues related to tourism doctor was above the threshold of $ 200 million for the first year of operation .. “

” Realizing the revenue potential of medical tourism, the Philippines is studying ways to take advantage of the growing trend. According to a study by Price Waterhouse Coopers, 24 countries spent a combined total of 0.7 trillion dollars on health and welfare in 2002 and the figures should raise billions for the year 2020. “

NaturalNews.com, author Mike Adams reveals that yes, this 21 century phenomenon called medical tourism — also called medical travel or health tourism (a term coined by travel agents and media to describe the rapidly growing practice of traveling to another country for health care “) may be excellent news for Asia. But it’s terrible news for U.S. healthcare industry ..

Mike Adams writes: “People are going to go abroad for better medical care or a better value for surgical procedures, and the popularity of medical tourism is proving that. “

” If health becomes so expensive in the western world, and is far cheaper to buy an international plane ticket and get some medical procedure done abroad, and then more and more People are going to take that option and go overseas. And as medical tourism becomes more well loved, I reckon we will see the American Medical Association, hospital associations and even the FDA up in arms, complaining of loss of revenue for U.S. companies. “

” So in addition to exporting so many jobs in the IT industry, which in reality will be the export earnings of health in countries around the world and is of substantial income;. we’re talking about billions of dollars at stake is medical tourism. excellent news for Asia, and terrible news for the U.S. healthcare industry .

more Adams writes: “And if you want to have a functioning health system, it needs to be efficient you need to dispose of documents, fraud and waste, and have a system that offers medical procedures. to a honest and affordable price Let’s face it. huge medicine is huge business and organized medicine absolutely despises competition “

..

” The medical tourism hospitals in the Philippines and other countries really have to meet higher standards. They give you a high quality experience with such outstanding results that come home to the U.S. and tell people. Because when you do that, they know they will be fantastic word-of-mouth marketing for that hospital. “

statistical data

Wikipedia reports:

” Thailand as a destination for medical treatment has skyrocketed in recent years and have the statistics to prove Take a single country like the United Arab Emirates States, for example -. over 60,000 of its citizens each year come to Thailand to delight in a treatment. Two of Thailand’s Bumrungrad top Samitivej hospitals and treat patients of which 40% are from overseas – this high percentage is phenomenal, “

.

” According to the Kasikorn Research Center, in 2005 alone attracted to a record 1.28 million foreign travelers medical generating revenues of 33 million Baht. That means therefore, that on average, each patient spent 25,800 baht for their treatments. It was revealed in an article in Newsweek in 2006 that 400,000 foreign patients were treated at Bumrungrad Hospital in Bangkok only. This prestigious world-class hospital has a capacity of 6,000 outpatients per day. “

” Thailand now has a free universal health care to its citizens with more than 600 hospitals and 400 medical centers. At present, Thailand is proud to become a medical center for patients in the United States, Europe, neighboring countries and the Middle East. “

But, Singapore is ranked promotes second to Thailand as “more than half a million international visitors visited the city-state in 2006, boosting its medical tourism industry. Asia is becoming the medical center’s World Tour. “

Meanwhile, market analysts reveal that the aging of Japan — with a population dominated by the elderly — is touted as the largest customer base for the global medical tourism market — and the main objective to Asian destinations like the Philippines can get their hands on — to ensure to comply with its millions of U.S. target share of industry revenue in Asia.

Recent studies by the Philippine Institute for Development Studies show that according to

Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare estimates, older people needing nursing care will be more than $ 2 million, increase to 4 million in 2010, and increase <- ! nextpage -> more up to 5.2 million in 2025.

More figures statistics and facts:

· For As of October 2001, there are 10,137 Japanese living in PR officially making it the eighth most well loved destination in Asia, with China, Singapore, Thailand, Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia and Indonesia.

· Japan, ranked as the second largest tourism market (the U.S. side), has contributed around US0 million in direct revenues to the tourism industry of the Philippines.

· But RP has so far captured only 1.8% of the 20 million Japanese travelers

in the Asia-Pacific.

aging · Japan market will be the largest medical tourism market in Asia, so Asian countries are aggressively positioning itself to become the destination of this market, and eventually become the retirement option. • A retired U.S. spends less than average Japanese, 400 annually in medical care, with 20 million aging Retirees who have their regular checkups and treatment, which translates to at least U.S. million dollars. And the number is still expected to climb.

· large number for Philippine medical tourism industry – - but RP is the eighth as well loved retirement destination for Japanese tourists (in October 2001 of the study).

• In 2003, 1.9 million foreigners visited Argentina, a number that has remained relatively stable since 2000. During this period, the bulk of visitors were from USA, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan. But tourism could not flourish as a result of political and economic instability, among other factors. (Www.hawaii.edu)

Arroyo government seems to have vertigo with the staggering and all ready to take the initiative of public-sector-private partnership with the Department of Health, Department of Tourism private hospitals and medical facilities and professionals, not just wanted to join the bandwagon growing large sums of money. Arroyo statement: “The cost is competitive and the quality is high Filipino professionals can serve the world here at home, and that provide more jobs downstream and reduce poverty. “

industry experts see a strong Asian medical tourism market in line, and is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 17.6 % between 2007 and 2012 (www.researchandmarkets.com), the Philippines can work on improving its facilities for huge dollars in medical tourism which is said to “make a firm foothold,” the Philippine Daily Inquirer reports.

Reports claim: The Philippines is known for its quality of nurses and other health workers who have dominated medical profession in such developed countries as the United States and Britain, reason foreign patients to get the guarantee of getting the best health care. The medical industry is working hard to see medical tourism flourish because they believe the sector has the potential to address not only economic problems but also the evils that afflict our largest exports: our human resources

.

Philippines medical facilities may, at this stage, still building a reputation for excellence in service, but have place in place various mechanisms to address to visit patients.

Asia Hospital, St. Luke Medical City to name a few have made special departments to deal only with foreign cases. For visitors to the U.S., the largest motivation is cost savings , since patients can receive standard medical care in the U.S. and health centers in Asia and internationally renowned physicians in a fifth of the price back home. “

s

Researchandmarkets. com ‘figures: “health tourism in the Philippines only started three years ago, in October 2005 but has already achieved considerable success in total revenues related to medical tourism was exceeding the threshold of 200 million dollars for the first year of operation .. “

” Realizing the revenue potential of medical tourism, the Philippines is studying ways to take advantage of the growing trend. According to a study by Price Waterhouse Coopers , 24 countries spent a combined total of 0.7 trillion dollars on health and welfare in 2002 and the figures should rise to billions in 2020 (Philippine Daily Inquirer report p> ).”

Who’s sorry now? Do we hear sour graping?

NaturalNews.com, author Mike Adams reveals that yes, this 21 century phenomenon called medical tourism — also called medical travel or health tourism (a term coined by travel agents and media to describe the rapidly growing practice of traveling to another country for health care “) may be excellent news for Asia. But it’s terrible news for U.S. healthcare industry.

Mike Adams: “medical tourism in Asia is terrible news for U.S. healthcare industry

.

People go abroad to get a better medical care and better value for surgical procedures, and the popularity of medical tourism is proving that.

“If health becomes so expensive in the western world, and that is much cheaper to buy an international plane ticket and get some medical procedure done abroad, then more and more people are going to take that option and go overseas. And as medical tourism becomes more well loved, I reckon we will see the American Medical Association, hospital associations and even the FDA up in arms, complaining of loss of revenue for U.S. companies. “

” So in addition to exporting so many jobs in the IT industry, which in reality will be the export earnings of health in countries around the world and is of substantial income;. we’re talking about billions of dollars at stake is medical tourism. excellent news for Asia, and terrible news for the U.S. healthcare industry .

more Adams writes: “And if you want to have a functioning health system, it needs to be efficient you need to dispose of documents, fraud and waste, and have a system that offers medical procedures. to a honest and affordable price Let’s face it. huge medicine is huge business and organized medicine absolutely despises competition “

..

Cost savings are incredible: a knee replacement surgery in a high-tech hospital in Asia can cost only, 000, while it could cost 000 in the U.S.

.

coronary bypass surgery in Asia costs , about 000, while it costs

6.8 times more in the USA. The gastric bypass in the U.S. can cost, 000, 000, while only low cost, 000 in abroad (www.naturalnews.com).

“The medical tourism hospitals in the Philippines and other countries really have to meet higher standards. They give you a high quality experience with such outstanding results that come home to the U.S. and tell people. Because when you do that, they know they will be fantastic word-of-mouth marketing for that hospital. “

One disadvantage of medical tourism: the World Health Organization (WHO) recently ranked the Philippines as one of the top five countries in the world for human organ trafficking, along with China , Pakistan, Egypt and Colombia

.

Asia Times Online reports that the website advertises www.liver4you.org liver transplants for 0000, but a foreign patient can expect to spend between 000 and 5,000 for a kidney transplant in one of the 20 government medical facilities establish ed in the Philippines.

And as RP medical tourism boom, so does the influx of wealthy foreigners seeking organ transplants, the kidneys usually — about 200,000 medical tourists visited the Philippines in 2006, according to official statistics.

Based on the Philippine Renal Disease Registry, kidney transplants in the Philippines has recently increased dramatically, from 306 transplants in 2002 to 1,046 in 2007. More than half of kidney recipients last year were foreigners, mainly from the Middle East.

Meanwhile, Dr. Cabatuan said that Thailand is the top country in Asia in the phenomenon of medical tourism in Asia, and Singapore -. contrary to reports

statistical data of Wikipedia:

“Thailand as a destination for medical treatment has skyrocketed in recent years and have the statistics to prove Take a single country like the UAE, for example -. over 60,000 of its citizens each year come to Thailand to delight in a treatment. Two of Thailand’s Bumrungrad top Samitivej hospitals and treat patients of which 40% are from overseas – this high percentage is phenomenal, “

.

” According to the Kasikorn Research Center, in 2005 alone attracted to a record 1.28 million foreign travelers medical generating revenues of 33 million Baht. That means therefore, that on average, each patient spent 25,800 baht for their treatments. It was revealed in an article in Newsweek in 2006 that 400,000 foreign patients were treated at Bumrungrad Hospital in Bangkok only. This prestigious world-class hospital has a capacity of 6,000 outpatients per day. “

” Thailand now has a free universal health care to its citizens with more than 600 hospitals and 400 medical centers. At present, Thailand is proud to become a medical center for patients in the United States, Europe, neighboring countries and the Middle East. “

But, Singapore is ranked promotes second to Thailand as “more than half a million international visitors visited the city-state in 2006, boosting its medical tourism industry. Asia is becoming the medical center’s World Tour. “

Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA) is involved in Incredible India? Medical Tourism Road Shows held in India in the Ministry of Tourism

Middle East and the Gulf, in particular, as a market to promote medical tourism in India has fantastic potential. Traditionally, patients have been coming to India in the region to major hospitals in Mumbai and Chennai and the richest of them prefer to go to Europe and America. But now, with the establishment of more than 100 modern and JCI NaBH internationally accredited hospitals in the top ten cities in India over the past five years, no other country can match the capacity, quality and value proposition of cost Indian hospitals have to offer to foreign patients seeking advanced medical treatment.

phenomenon, popularly known as medical tourism is often cited as the next huge opportunity for India after the IT outsourcing to gain billions of dollars in foreign exchange earnings and make jobs in the health sector. So far, only a select group of hospitals in India have been making valiant attempts to market their services internationally. More than one million patients treated abroad and the top corporate hospitals in India like Fortis, Artemis, Max, MIOT, Manipal and many others have shown the world that the clinical quality of technology and Cost Proposal India offered is unmatched. The segment capacity super specialty hospitals in India is booming and there is no waiting period for patients locally or abroad.

Travel Indian Medical Association joined the Indian Ministry of Tourism to promote the tour and attended a number of local insurance companies, travel and tour operators, hospital administrators and facilitators of tourism doctor. Ministry of Tourism of India has achieved phenomenal success in the past five years with his acclaimed “Incredible India” campaign which has increased foreign tourist arrivals to India. Recently reported the market Development Help (MDA) System for Medical Tourism option allows players to obtain financial support for participation in promotional events overseas.

About Travel Indian Medical Association.

A non-profit organization designed for the preparation of India to meet the challenges of global competition in the medical tourism space and update a fantastic opportunity for India to become into a leading destination for global health. IMTA members with a diverse base of India’s leading JCI, NaBH accredited hospitals, India System of Medicine and the welfare service providers, the travel industry, insurance, medical help and facilitation of tourism enterprises.

For more information please contact: –

Ms. Anoushka Singh, Manager of Public Relations, India Travel Medical Association

Phone – 91 9899993637

E-mail – pr@indianmta.com

Web Site – http://indianmedicaltravelassociation.com/

hospitals in India, wellness and medical tourism players together to make India in the Global Healthcare Destination – Indian Medical Travel ASSOCIATION

India’s leading hospitals, health professionals (both modern medicine and traditional Indian medicine), medical and travel suppliers in the tourism industry have come together to form an industry association – Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA), which aims to work together to make India the leading global health destination.

The phenomenon popularly known as medical tourism is often cited as the next huge opportunity for India after the IT outsourcing to gain billions of dollars in foreign exchange earnings and make jobs in the health sector . So far, only a select group of hospitals in India have been making valiant attempts to market their services internationally. More than one million patients treated abroad and the top corporate hospitals in India such as Apollo, Fortis, Wockhardt, Max, Manipal and many others have shown the world that the clinical quality of technology and Cost Proposal India offered is unmatched. The segment capacity super specialty hospitals in India is booming and there is no waiting period for patients locally or abroad.

Mc’Kinsey CII study first reported in health tourism as an opportunity than a billion dollars for the way back in India 2002 and the steady growth of overseas arrivals has validated the potential patient. With a large number of new super specialized private hospitals and health cities, even ones built in the top ten cities of India, India has the potential to become the world leader in travel health, the outsourcing industry. Indian medical professionals are internationally recognized for their abilities and the country has an abundance of all inputs such as labor talented young local base of high quality pharmaceutical products, hardware and software technology that makes the costs India for high-end surgical procedures so attractive. The real challenge is not the medical side, especially on the marketing front and also to provide infrastructure and services to support the growth of medical tourism.

Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA) – a nonprofit organization and a unified voice for indigenous health (modern medicine and traditional Indian medicine) and industry travel is to prepare India to meet the challenges of global competition and to update the fantastic opportunity for India to become a major global health destination. Modern medicine, as well as India’s 5000 year ancient traditional therapies such as Ayurveda, Siddha and yoga can offer the world an brilliant healing.

“IMTA” strive to help its members reach out to cost-effectively millions of our potential global consumers residing across the world in a different time and cultural area and is aware of the enormous value India offers health. The fact is that before choosing a hospital, international patients first choose on the country or destination. Therefore we must all join forces to aggressively promote India as a global health destination choice, “says Pradeep Thukral, Executive Director of the Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA)

The Government of India and its various branches are actively supporting the growth of medical tourism to India. In a message to the IMTA, Union tourism minister, Shailaja Kumar sent “This is indeed a commendable initiative and we all know fantastic opportunity presented by Medical Tourism India. On behalf of the Ministry of Tourism, I would give all possible support this industry initiative and wish them fantastic success IMTA and its members in their efforts.

Two years ago the Government of India introduced a special category of visa called M visa for foreigners wishing to come to India for medical treatment. Ministry of Tourism of India has achieved phenomenal success in the past five years with his acclaimed “Incredible India” campaign which has increased foreign tourist arrivals to India. The year 2009 is being promoted by the Ministry of Tourism of India as “Visit India” The year and the ministry is willing to promote medical tourism. Recently reported the market Development Help (MDA) System for Medical Tourism option allows players to obtain financial support for participation in promotional events overseas.

IMTD 2009? Hospitals in India promoting medical tourism in Canada

The event has shown unprecedented response from the Government of India, Ministry of Tourism of India, the Consulate General of Spain in Toronto, Canada, Indo Chambers of Commerce have supported this show for the first time major medical tourism outside India to showcase the best of indigenous health in Canada.

IMTD speakers at the conference are leading lights of India and Canada, led by Dr. Narottam Puri, President of Strategy and Quality Care, Fortis Escorts Hospital Group, Ms. Lisa Purdy, Head of Practice, Deloitte , Canada, Dr. Sajan Hegde, Apollo Hospitals, Dr K Ravindranath, Chairman of World Hospitals, Ms. Ann Kaplan, president and CEO, Medicard Finance, Dr. Vasanthi Srinivasan, director of Health System Plotting and Research , Ontario Ministry of Health of the Prado and Mr. Thukral, Executive Director, India Travel Medical Association (IMTA).

Ms. Preeti Saran

, Consulate General of India, Toronto is hosting a special business networking breakfast meeting to kick off the 2009 IMTD www.imtd2009.com where top business leaders and health in Canada and India will deliberate on the theme “Developing synergies between India and Canada in the health sector”

Travel

Indian Medical Association, the Embassy of India in Spain, Ministry of Tourism and Tourism Surgical Canada have joined together to celebrate the first honest specializing in Medical Relationship Canada to promote travel to India.

Indian Ministry of Tourism has launched a successful “Incredible India” promotion campaign in India, has approved the participation in IMTD 2009 by NaBH JCI accredited hospitals in India and other mediators of eligible accordance with its travel medical MDA – Market Development Help Scheme. This implies that participating hospitals would be able to get financial support for an vital part of the cost of promotion under the MDA scheme of the Ministry of Tourism.

The Indian Consulate General and the Regional Offices of Tourism, Government of India based in Toronto also actively supports IMTD2009 as an vital milestone in the market for the first time a large number of players Medical Tourism in India come together to raise awareness of the high quality of care available in India at a fraction of the cost in the western world.

Canada as a market to promote medical tourism in India has fantastic potential. System has been socialized medical care delivery is under tension and waiting lists are growing. Surgical waiting list of major Canadian 850.000, points to the need for this conference. Canadians tired of waiting and are open to visit and learn about their many options beyond the realms of public health system. There is a large population of Indian origin in Canada, which is also likely to visit this honest. IMTD 2009 also provides a unique opportunity for the Healthcare industry player in Canada and India to explore business opportunities for collaboration.

visitors and delegates to IMTD 2009 is expected to be a large number of Canadians seeking medical and surgical services, provincial health authorities, insurance companies, travel and tour operators, legal persons, societies medical information, hospital administrators and medical tourism facilitators.

About the Medical Association of India travel. www.indianmedicaltravelassociation.com

nonprofit organization designed for the preparation of India to meet the challenges of global competition in the medical tourism space and update a fantastic opportunity for India to become a leading destination for global health . IMTA members with a diverse base of India’s leading JCI, NaBH accredited hospitals, India System of Medicine and the welfare service providers, the travel industry, insurance, medical help and facilitation of tourism enterprises.

Indian Medical Travel Association (Imta) Represents To Modify Medical Visa Norms To Indian Government To Further Boost Growth Of Medical Tourism An

Majority of  foreigners coming to India for medical treatments have been applying for a tourist visa and not opting for M visa, because Medical Visa norms make it mandatory for them to register with FRRO office within 14 days of the arrival in India. This is an avoidable inconvenience imposed by M Visa, particularly in view of the fact that the patients may not be able to leave the hospital once their treatment starts to go and register at the FRRO.

The patients who come on M Visa have to seek the Indian hospital’s help to go FRRO office and comply with the procedures and this puts avoidable strain on the hospital’s resources. Therefore the hospitals have been often advising the potential patients not to apply for M visa and opt for Tourist Visa only. But this  has defeated the very purpose and the excellent intentions with which the Government of India introduced the Medical Visa scheme.

The volume of foreign patient arrivals at Indian hospitals is growing at a healthy pace of over 40 percent every year and medical tourism is indeed the next billion dollar opportunity after IT outsourcing for India to benefit from its quick expanding private healthcare infrastructure. Indian doctors and professionals are world renowned for their skills and the country has abundance of all the inputs like talented young manpower, local high quality manufacturing base for pharmaceuticals, technology hardware and software that makes the Indian costs for high end surgical procedures so attractive.

“IMTA has apprised the concerned ministries of the Indian Government of the issues with Medical Visa and we have requested them to modify the norms  to make it an enabler for the growth of Medical Value Travel to India.  An early action to address the issues with Medical Visa would  surely  enhance the volume of international patients coming to India, it will also help to track the numbers of medical tourists arrival to India more accurately.  ” Says Pradeep Thukral, Executive Director, Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA)

About Indian Medical Travel Association.

A non profit body aimed at preparing India for facing the challenges of global competition in Medical Tourism space and actualise the tremendous opportunity for India to become a leading global healthcare destination. IMTA’s membership has a diverse base of India’s leading JCI, NABH accredited hospitals, Indian System of Medicine and Wellness service providers, travel industry, Insurance, Help and Medical Tourism facilitation companies.

For more details please contact :-

Ms. Anoushka Singh, Manager PR, Indian Medical Travel Association

Phone – 91 9899993637

Email – pr@indianmta.com

Website – http://indianmedicaltravelassociation.com/

announce Global Medical Book Medical Tourism Definition

In today’s world, health insurance and the costs are very high prices for nearly any medical procedure, check, or visit doctors. Medical expenses are very high in the United States, on the other hand, the United Kingdom and Canada have universal health coverage, but too often people and patients are exposed to poor medical conditions in order to save money. So the next question would be where I can get some of the best medical care for a reasonable (astronomically lower) price?

Let’s reckon for a minute …

As with anything worthwhile, medical tourism is becoming an industry in fantastic demand worldwide and competition is very fascinating. What I mean is there are now medical tourism travel agencies, all inclusive packages medical and travel plans, vacation care. These packages can offer everything from airline tickets, hotels, food for limousine service, all medical travel packages offering many luxurious upgrades

Visit

use a combination of ingredients to restore body composition.
In fact, natural remedies are considered more as food, given its natural components.
alternative medicine is based on completely natural methods and no />
organic. A holistic approach rather than looking at a set of symptoms and treatment />

modern medicine has hurt the immune system physiology />

A Brief History of Alternative Medicine

The history of alternative medicine dates back some 5000 years, when the Chinese and Indians learned traditional and Ayurvedic therapies to heal the body and mind. The real aim was to identify the deterrents in the system of the body that caused the illness, and
strengthen body immunity. Therapies, particularly to incorporate self-care, lifestyle changes />
:. “A Brief History of alternative medicine, http://www.med-help.net/med-history-of-alternativemedicine.
HTML

Alternative Medicine and Medical Tourism

Today, alternative medicine holds immense potential to attract medical tourists
. For example, India can become an vital center for medical tourism,
with industry revenues estimated to grow from US3 billion in />
(CII) and McKinsey.3 main competitive advantages that India is facing its profitability,
and traditional medical systems like Ayurveda and Naturopathy.
The world has witnessed the development of many traditional and modern systems of medicine
in the 20 th century. Late discoveries as penicillin routes
technological advances in modern surgery, promoting stem cell research and research
genetic structure and development of traditional medical systems
such as traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, osteopathy, homeopathy,
Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, and others have been part of the evolution in the territory />

In recent years have seen countries with technical resources
attract tourists from around the world and promote medical tourism as never before.

India

In India, medical tourism in alternative medicine has its ancestors in the south />
in treating their patients. These traditional medical practices />
Middle East. The advantages of vital importance that a country like India faces />

Naturopathy, a therapeutic system based on natural resources, relies on natural elements />

human body has the ability to heal itself, provided it is in a healthy environment.
With a holistic approach to wellness, Naturopathy believes that the three
physical entities – the physical body, soul and mind supernatural –
must be integrated across the natural energies. “A recent survey shows that 76% of
drugs are consumed by the U.S. and European countries. We believe that freedom
of diseases and drugs can only be achieved by living style natural life. “4
Ayurveda, the oldest health system, has the ingredients of nature.
The use of herbal materials such as gold and mercury and the ingredients of many household
this science accessible to the common man. Ayurveda claims to cure diseases />
Ayurveda uses herbs, minerals and advanced scientific techniques
ancient principles of medical science to cure many chronic diseases. Named as one of
the most complicated and complex medicine. Siddha consider />

Naturopathy has developed medical tourism in India in more than one way.
With medication systems with all natural ingredients to restore nature
integral to combat human diseases, medicine has made greater opportunities />
reap its benefits. As Vitthal Kamat Kamat Group of Hotels says:
“Naturopathy and Ayurveda, along with world-known tourist attractions />
in “KayaKalp, a medical spa in Himachal Pradesh, in charge of the Vivekananda Medical Research Trust in India has served as medical tourists in detoxification, immunization and rejuvenation through Yoga, Pranayama, Panchkarma, Meditation and Naturopathy. His treatments are apparently fewer and natural drugs. Naturopathy has the help of Ayurvedic preparations for curing as Panchkarma and improving blood circulation.

pioneer in India in an alternative therapy – medical tourism in Kerala, has
visitors worldwide in June, July and August. These months are />
high quality medical facilities provided at low prices are the main attraction />
tourists from countries such as Australia, Europe and Germany.
Packages offered in these spas include services like Ayurvedic oil massages Ayurvedic massage
powder, vegetarian diets, detoxification programs and a change of lifestyle.
small known fact that Ayurveda includes not only massage, but a whole range of services />
/> a complete medical system.

Ayurveda Gram, a unique institution in Bangalore offers ayurvedic />
Pranayama, meditation and a vegetarian diet to improve metabolism. Its sprawling campus />
for specific ailments, such as arthiritis, Spondilytis, cholesterol, sinusitis, peptic ulcer
and obesity. Other Gram Ayurveda treatments include stress management therapies />

AYUSH, Department of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy
was formed in the Indian Medicine Central Council Act
1970. One of the more recent awareness activities carried out by AYUSH was a />
AYUSH said the main Ayurvedic, Unani and Siddha manufacturers
India participated in this health honest.

Another well-known Ayurvedic center in India is the CVN Kalari Ayurveda Center
. Kalari is one of the centers approved in Ayurveda recognized by the Kerala Tourism
Department.6 Kalari has customers in many foreign countries. The center specializes in Marma Chikitsa (applying pressure to specific points
nerve) and other special practices of healing. Having both the therapeutic aspects and
rejuvenation in them, these specialized healing procedures take />
Some centers have formulated Ayurvedic Ayurvedic kitchen to help improve />

Ayurvedic cooking classes to help their clients buy
and maintain the lifestyle that was introduced to these spas and resorts.
Ananda, an Ayurvedic spa in the Himalayas is one of the most well-known destination stations
in India. Offers special packages such as Ayurvedic massage aromatherapy, reflexology
programs for rejuvenation, the stress release programs, customized sessions
Yoga, analysis of body composition and weight reduction programs through
Yoga and Ayurveda. Ananda claims that their packages and therapies
cure many ailments such as headaches, nausea disorders, climatic, facial paralysis, insomnia, asthma, neuralgia />

China

method 3,000 year ancient traditional medicine in China has gained popularity />

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) uses herbal remedies, therapeutic />
theory and the theory of yin-yang. The basis of five elements of evaluation theory in the />
pathology and the natural environment. 7 The movement
These five elements are constantly played the human body works and therefore />

yin-yang theory calls for the understanding of light and dark sides of p is decir, universo,


functional processes are in excellent condition, can be essential substances
properly refreshed. “

Chinese herbal medicine is best known as Chinese materia medica. This includes
crude medicine in China, the medicinal product prepared in pieces, traditional Chinese patent medicines />
TCM addresses the art of combining medicinal balance herbs.10 View />
Herbs are combined in different potions of different features for the sake of
different individuals being treated with TCM practitioners. Herbs like astragalus,
biloba, ginger, green tea, Siberian ginseng and garlic are used to treat various ailments
. About 300 mineral and animal extracts and formulas 400 are used to cure diseases
in traditional Chinese medicine.

Acupuncture, as part of traditional Chinese medicine is used to unblock the flow of vital energy through the human body.11
One of the oldest techniques of healing in the world, this method
traditional aims to “restore health through the simulation of specific body points.” 12
ailments such as nausea, addiction, and some types of pain are said to be treated />

Leveraging its abundant human resources, China is attracting medical tourists
on its web alternative medical therapies. Wellness packages from China
low cost and without side effects, thanks to a proliferation
Traditional Chinese Medicine. Several massages and spas have been made in recent times
providing mental health and physical medical tourists with the help of
Chinese medicinal herbs. apartments being established with the purpose of serving a />

Germany

Germany

alternative medical practices have their origin in homeopathy, a system />
Homeopathy considers symptoms as disturbance of the vital forces that have
connection with the human body. Homeopathic advocators believe this system />
depression and fatigue, constipation, irritability than chronic diseases. It is said that
treat allergies and allergic diseases like eczema and asthma. Moreover, this system />



Homeopathy is mostly with the help of herbs, minerals and extracts
animals. In addition, it is often reasoned that since the dosage />
substances such as water and alcohol there is no possibility of side effects.
Germany is also well-known for its medicinal herbs. Regulated by the Committee E14 />

. Most doctors in Germany should be educated in
alternative therapies, to serve as a courtesy to modern medical treatment.
As Mark Blumenthal, president of the American Botanical Council states, “Most
clinical research was conducted in the leading herbal medicines in the States United States comes from Germany
. 15

With over 300 resorts, Germany has become the main destination
health and welfare Europe.16 One of the most well-known spas />
that idealizes the sea as a “homeopathic pharmacy” and asserts that “contains all the />
, sleep disorders and obesity. Apart from these, mental disorders like depression
, anxiety and agony states that can be cured with the help of the sea.
sea breeze is said to be particularly effective in treating cardio-vascular and
conditions. The main advantages Germany faces in terms of />
states: “In the U.S., operations are four to five times as expensive as in Germany
.”

Japan

Japanese

medicine is known as Kanpo or Kampo, a medicinal herb that is part of well-researched
modern clinical methods and traditional methods of medicine
. A Japanese variant of traditional Chinese medicine or medicine />

abdomen and pulse. At each stage of treatment, different formulas
necessary for the body back to normal, are prepared by the physician.
These herbal medicines are regulated by the Government of Japan.
Kanpo medicine is used to treat many acute and chronic conditions such as cardiovascular, />

. Although therapies take longer Kanpo <-! Nextpage -> stuff to work, this system
doctor uses some very natural diagnosis and treatment methods and concepts
as water, blood and air to identify the physical symptoms. It further states that
these herbs have no side effects because of its natural composition
. therapists Japanese Anma visit countries such as />

in an appropriate way to rejuvenate the body.

Apart from attracting tourists for its natural treatments herbal medical
Medical tourism in Japan has become well loved thanks to its volcanic areas that have enabled />
. These have medicinal properties that heal wounds, relieve pain and />

The healing properties of these springs are exacerbated by the surrounding volcanic soil />

Medical Tourism Outlook Alternative Medicine

Alternative medicine is here to stay, the claim of some practitioners of traditional medicine.
Given its obvious advantages over modern medical techniques and face
Western medicine, alternative medicine therapy is gaining ground in many br and developed countries. Practices such as ayurveda and homeopathy claim that surgery
always be the last option in case of treatment of a disease. Natural Remedies />




that you should never overlook the traditional treatments available
suggested by our ancestors. They provide a point of view from which one can know the depth />

Please question their permission to reprint. Send request for reprints kirrti82@gmail.com.

References

1. www.hinduonnet.com
2. “Kerala”, www.takekerala.com
3. “The prospects of medical tourism in India,” www.mpiweb.org
4. “Medical Tourism to promote Penang and Langkawi,” http://thestar.com.my
5. www.wikipedia.com

Medical tourism is a booming industry. Medical travel essentially means traveling to a different location, generally a different country for getting medical aid. Medical tourism is not a new concept. The Greeks and Egyptians traveled to hot springs and other such salubrious places in order to get health benefits. This age ancient practice of medical travel has now become a blossoming industry.

 

Medical aid in the US is a highly expensive proposition. There are millions of Americans today who are either uninsured or are only partly insured. This lack of proper health insurance coverage makes it very hard for the ordinary man to get medical treatment in the US due to the exorbitant costs. This is the reason many Asian and Middle East countries are proving to be fantastic places for the medical travel industry. The inconvenience which a medical traveler faces as he has to travel to a new country fades into insignificance when weighed against the various benefits that he enjoys.

 

Countries like India and some other Asian and Middle Eastern countries are coming up with incredible facilities which they offer for medical tourism.

In order to cater to the demands of people coming from US, UK, Canada and other European countries, the nations offering medical travel are coming up with highly luxurious hospitals with the best health care anywhere in the world. The medical facilities available in these countries are in no way inferior to those available in the European countries. The medical cost is nearly 75 to 90 percent lower than US and UK in these Asian countries which offer medical tourism.

 

There are several reasons which attribute to the success of the medical travel concept. The most common reason for undertaking medical tourism is the money which can be saved by getting oneself treated in an Asian country as opposed to a European. Although this is an vital factor, it is by no means the only one.

Many people who undertake medical travel find the doctors much more approachable in the Asian and Middle Eastern countries. It is simpler to get answers to your questions from a doctor who takes a personal interest in you and gives you his undivided time and attention rather than from a doctor who is so bogged down by so many patients that personalized attention and care is alien to him. Such overloaded doctors are generally very common in the western countries, while the health facilities which offer medical tourism ensure that they have more patient and caring doctors.

 

The countries offering medical tourism take a lot of pains to ensure smooth transition for the medical travelers into the new place. There are several businesses which exist in these countries whose sole purpose is taking care of every comfort of a medical traveler. Right from picking them from the airport to providing them with a local translator, everything is taken care of by these businesses.

The current recession has hit people hard. In these troubled economic times most of us have had to tighten our money belts. A number of compromises, right from entertainment to accommodation have been forced on us due to lack of adequate funds. The one thing which cannot be compromised upon is health. Scarcity of funds might lead us to cut down on those shopping sprees or even on the caviar, but delaying a cardiac surgery or even a dental operation due to financial reasons is not an option. But, medical travel, also referred as medical tourism is most certainly a viable option.

 

Medical travel refers to people traveling across the globe for getting medical treatment. Medical tourism is by no means a modern concept, traveling for health gains has been done since centuries. But, only recently has medical travel been converted to a highly lucrative industry.

 

Several Asian and Middle Eastern countries are profiting by the medical tourism concept. The cost of medical treatments in these countries is nearly ninety percent lower than that in European and other western countries. Offering low cost medical aid to a western traveler seems a fantastic thought for these countries to make considerable profits.

 

Medical tourism is a boon to the people in the western countries. Health cannot be compromised but with medical travel it can be achieved at a lower cost. The facilities which are offered by the health care centers offering medical travel are just as excellent if not better than the ones found in European countries. The medical capabilities of doctors are impeccable and the medical treatments, techniques and equipments are all top notch.

 

Medical travel is generally not undertaken for cosmetic or any other voluntary treatment. Medical tourism is undertaken by westerners with real health problems, right from a bum knee to a weak heart. In this phase of economic recession medical tourism is blooming as it offers a low price health solution to westerners. The disparity in medical costs between US and India (a nation offering medical tourism) are colossal. Cardiac surgery which costs up to $24000 in US is performed in India for a paltry $6000. Knee surgery which is very common amongst the aged if undertaken in US costs around $17000 while in India the same is performed for $1000.

 

This huge disparity in cost clarifies why medical tourism has become so well loved. Traveling to a new country might be an inconvenience to some, but compared to the benefits that medical travel offers this inconvenience pales into insignificance. Medical travel also provides the opportunity for people to club their medical trip with a vacation. Asian and Middle Eastern countries are very well loved tourist attractions apart from being nations which support medical travel.

 

Medical tourism has led to the booming of some other related businesses as well. There are companies whose sole responsibility is to cater to the demands of a medical traveler.

Medical travel has always been a booming business but in these financially troubled times the significance of medical tourism has increased manifold.

 

MEDICAL TOURISM IN MALAYSIAToday Malaysia offers world class medical facilities, comparable with any of the western countries. Foreign visitors often choose Malaysia for medical treatment due to the low cost of procedures and care and also the attractive options available for the recuperation period. Malaysia has state of the art hospitals and the best qualified doctors. With the best infrastructure, the best possible medical facilities, accompanied with the most competitive prices, you can get the treatment done in Malaysia at the lowest charges. The Malaysian government is promoting the country as a medical tourism hub and all kinds of treatments are available at world class facilities including general and cosmetic surgery, orthopedics, cardiac treatment, as well as high quality dental care. All private medical centers are approved and licensed by the Ministry of Health and are required to maintain specific quality standards. Patients from around the globe visit Malaysia for Medical Tourism and avail high quality medical treatment in some of the best healthcare facilities in the country. Medical Tourism in Malaysia attract tourists who are looking for critical medical treatment as well as by those who need cosmetic and preventative care. There are several advantages which makes Malaysia pioneer in medical tourism and attract tourist from all over the world. 1. Medical Facilities at Competitive PriceMedical services and healthcare facilities are available at a low price compared to any other countries like UK and US. Medical Tourism packages provided by MalaysiaMediTravel offer world-class medical facilities to medical tourists at affordable prices. They arrange for Travel, medical treatment, hospitalization, hotel stay, in Malaysia. Get help with SPAs, dental treatment, cosmetic surgery, orthopedics, cardiac treatment, all at a fraction of the costs. 2. State of the Art Healthcare Facilities Most private hospitals and healthcare facilities are well equipped with state of the art equipments and are well staffed with english speaking and internationally trained medical professionals. Medical centers have extensive diagnostic and therapeutic resources such as haemodialysis centers, endoscopic suites, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) facilities, cardiac catheterisation and much more. 3. Highly Qualified Medical ProfessionalsMost of the hospitals are staffed by well-experienced and highly qualified English speaking medical professionals with extensive international qualifications. They are supported by an equally efficient group of english speaking paramedic staff. 4. Simple and Affordable AccommodationMost private hospitals in Malaysia offer accommodation for their patients ranging from comfortable rooms to luxurious suites with personal butlers and full time nurses. The cost of accommodation is pretty reasonable. 5. Tourism – The center point for Medical Tourism in MalaysiaMalaysia is a tourist’s heaven and this is same for tourist who come for medical reasons. Malaysia has a wide range of tourist attractions. The sheer diversity of tourism destinations is astounding. These include the high-tech city of Kuala Lumpur, tropical island of Langkawi, colonial hill stations of Genting and Cameron Highlands, numerous pristine beaches, National Parks, and the world’s oldest tropical rainforests. Patients get ample opportunity to delight in the beaches. Patients for less critical care cases can delight in an exhilarating tourist experience. Malaysia also offers enough opportunity for critically-ill patients to take a leisurely vacation on the silent beaches. An extensive tour of Malaysia not just works as an enriching experience but also actively contributes to the patient’s recovery. MalaysiaMediTravel are premier health tourism service provider. They arrange for your treatment, surgery, hospitalization, stay, visa and airtravel in Malaysia. Other alternative medical tourism provider is ThaiMediHealth .

Medical tourism industry is growing day by day and with this evolutionary change in medical field now more and more patients are looking forward to locate the destination where they can get the quality and less expensive medical treatment. Now travel for medical treatment is no longer a hard task to accomplish many medical tourism provider companies are working around the world to give the best possible benefits of medical tourism to overseas patients. And with the competition in the field of medical tourism, sense of cost effective and beneficial medical tourism is also increasing in the patients. www. wellnessvisit. com the leading medical tourism provider company gives you a comprehensive account of what kind of benefits and complications can come in the way of a medical traveler.

Benefits of medical tourism industry to overseas patients are numerous. First of all one can plot a cost effective medical treatment anywhere around the world through medical tourism. One can find the accredited hospitals with latest equipment and modern procedure through medical tourism. More and more doctors, surgeons and consultants are joining the medical tourism industry, giving consultancy online to educate the patient about the disease, and the purpose is one and that is to meet the challenges of medical health and care in a best available way. Moreover medical tourism companies are integrated information portals on medical procedures. Research articles are being published every day at URL of medical tourism providers, and that helps patients to get a general thought of the disease and its best available treatment.

There are many risks involved in traveling for medical treatment. First of all you have to meet many legal issues while traveling abroad for medical treatment. And if someone has to glide soon after any complex surgery due to the restricted stay several complications are obvious like blood clots and many others. It is a hard procedure to get medical insurance in many western countries for several cosmetic surgery procedures. In several Western countries the medical travel can be very costly due to the visa fee and expensive medical procedures. One should have knowledge the hospital he has chosen for his medical tourism trip is accredited and the surgeons and doctors there are experienced in their field and have proper credentials. Risks can be minimized if one has proper knowledge of his disease and the steps to fallow during medical travel. www. wellnessvisit. com leading source of information about medical tourism Malaysia provides overseas patients chance to come to Malaysia for several modern treatments less expensively, in well equipped hospitals and from the top professional doctors and surgeon of Malaysia.

http://www. wellnessvisit. com

International health travelers plotting medical travel abroad have to choose where to go for health care. There is a huge deal of medical directories, different associations, societies and et cetera registered all over the world which are competing in helping to find the best place for treatment oversees and promoting particular countries, hospitals and providers.

 

The problem is that such helpers have as a rule no legal obligations, and approaches used are not always convincible, appropriate and efficient.

 

It remains a huge challenge for medical traveler to find a trusted source for reliable online health information about the right destination for medical care including evidence-based medical information, quality reports, certification or accreditation, mortality data, infection rates, performance data and to protect himself from misleading health information.

 

Recognizing that European citizens are avid consumers of health related information on the Internet and recognizing that the difficulties by evaluating of medical information available, the European Council at Feira on June 19-20 2000 supported an initiative within eEurope 2002 and as a result Quality Criteria for Health Related Websites were developed in widespread consultation with representatives of private and public eHealth websites and information providers, other industrial representatives, public officials, and representatives of government departments, international organizations, and non-governmental organizations.

These criteria consist of 6 major points and should be applied in addition to relevant Community law:

 

 

Health On the Net Foundation from Swiss /www. hon. ch/, one of most respected not-for-profit portals to medical information on the Internet, established its code of ethical conduct which is based on Quality Criteria for Health Related Websites of the European Council.

 

We recognize the HONcode as a minimal requirement for any health related websites and websites dealing with medical tourism as well. Any patient looking for medical care abroad is advised to check the present of the the HONcode on the website of provider or facilitator of health services. It is the start but not enough for choosing a right destination.

 

That is why the Institute for Cross-Border Health Care (Homepage: www. meditravel-plus. com) established guidelines with the aim to help international health travelers to choose a right destination for medical travel and to help individuals in making more informed health and healthcare decisions. These guidelines can be consistently used by international health travelers plotting medical travel abroad.

 

Institute for Cross-Border Health Care guidelines on general principles of destination evaluation for medical care:

 

1.  Not rely on advertising but critically analyze and check statistics, medical data bases and not at the least use your own common sense.  

 

2.  Be aware of the fact that some destinations have not only price advantages but of course some disadvantages as well. The quality of overseas hospitals and providers remains the most vital and controversial issue.

 

3.  Be sure that a destination where you are going to medical treatment is able to fulfill and satisfy all requirements needed according to US and EU standards to health care.

 

4.  Pay attention at the provision of healthcare, life expectancy and maternal mortality ratio according to Mortality Country Fact Sheet of WHO (World Health Organization) within the country advertising itself as an attractive destination for medical travel.  

 

5.  Be aware of possibility of outbreak of pandemic as a result of poor hygiene conditions over the inhabitants

 

6.  Consult health care data of a country in question and try to know, whether or not it is worthy to go there and whether the services of the local medical provider could be trusted of. For more information it could be useful for medical tourists to visit the website of WHO: www. who. int/countries, which is available now in 6 international languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, Spanish.

 

7.  Pay attention at the fact which total expenditure on health as % of Yucky Domestic Product a destination country has and try to learn whether the destination country is able to provide health care for its own citizens, including doctors and medical stuff of the hospitals.  

 

8.  Try to learn whether legal procedures, law medical standards comply with US and European law

 

9.  Be informed of responsibility for clinical oversight with the country of treatment and check legal status of providers

 

10.  Be certain that the transfer of your medical records to and from facilities outside your home country is consistent with USA and EU guidelines and local follow-up care could be coordinated

 

11.  Be informed of your rights and legal recourse, complaint proceduresin the case of undesirable outcomes prior to agreeing to travel outside your country for medical care

 

12.  Be certain that you could resort to the legal process and obtain remedies in case of complication and should anything go incorrect. So you can avoid an increased risk and uncalculated spending

 

13.  Inform yourself about general agenda as domestic security, terrorism and political instability  

 

14.  Inform yourself about the prevalence of the corruption in Public and Other Institutions, which could infect local hospitals and health care in general. For more information about Bribe payer index and Global Corruption Barometer, please consult the website of Transparency International:www. transparency. org.  The information about corruption is available in 7 international languages: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish.

 

15.  Inform yourself about circulation of faked medication. Particularly in the developing world some countries praised in advertising as medical travel destinations are supposed and proved to be the centers of faked medication production.

 

16.  Try to know that a variety of different factors could result that the price you pay for affordable and chip surgery would be in the end very huge. And it is not only about the money. In our globalized world it is hard sometimes to compete well with chip prices. But chip medical services could always be not excellent nor has a excellent quality.

 

17.  Be aware about differences in nutritional habits, religious practices, family interactions and other customs

 

18.  Be informed aware of standards of clinical excellence, pre and post operative care, levels of English spoken and medical training, cultural and language barriers

 

 

Medical tourism industry is growing at an exponential rate. Thanks to high quality and low cost treatments in India and other south east countries, more and more people are opting to get treated overseas. This growth of the overseas travel has given birth to many organizations acting as facilitators between the patient and healthcare providers. The rise of facilitators has been associated with rise of bogus organizations having a website for attracting the patients and then leaving them in lurch when they arrive in the country of treatment. Therefore it becomes very vital to have detailed information about your medical tourism facilitator.

Medical tourist should gain information regarding the points below while choosing a medical tourism facilitator.

The above are few points that the medical tourist should know regarding the facilitator. An informed medical tourist can save her/his money and get a high quality treatment in India which may have been inaccessible in home country because of cost of treatment, lack of technology or long waiting list. If you want more information or want to provide your comments, mail us at info@firstcareindia. com.

To mention the pros and cons of going with a medical tourism companies (also known as medical tourism facilitators, medical tourism intermediaries, medical tourism provider, or health tourism provider) for your medical travel, it’s very vital to first know what they do. The figure below sums up most of the vital activities that a medical tourism facilitator performs for a medical tourist.

The above has been well clarified by Dr Prem Jagyasi in “The Role Of Facilitator In Medical Tourism”. In small, a medical tourism facilitator is a company or an organization that provides seamless combination of all the arrangements required for your medical tourism needs. There are two kinds of medical tourist:1.     Medical tourists who hire medical tourism facilitators or intermediaries2.     Medical tourists who approach the providers directly for all the information and make the entire arrangements themselves. So what are the pros and cons of going with a medical tourism facilitator?Pros:1.     One stop shop – The convenience provided by a facilitator is un-matched. Once you choose on a facilitator, you can get variety of options and hospitals available at their disposal. Medical tourists can request information on pricing, hospitals, doctors etc. and choose the option that suits them the best. All other activities such as logistics, documentation, and travel are also taken care by them, thereby reducing you burdens. 2.     Experience and Know-how – Most of the excellent medical tourism facilitators have done all the legwork required to provide you with the best and most legitimate information about the service providers. To make sure your trip is as hassle free as possible, they make sure the hospitals and doctors the medical tourist chooses are properly certified. Preferably the facilitators have a process in place with the service providers to cater to their customers. 3.     Savings – You can save silent a bit by taking the bundling packages medical tourism facilitators offer. It is cheaper than going to individual service providers for their services. Also, facilitators can help you budget your expenditure due to their past experience and make you aware of the unexpected expenses. 4.     Representative – They can act as your representative in hotel bookings, appointments with doctors etc. reducing your burden. Also, in any un-eventuality, having someone known in a foreign country can always come in handy. 5.     Logistics arrangements – They arrange all your travel and tourism arrangements during your stay and recommend the must see tourist spots in the city/country. 6.     Post-procedure follow up – Your relationship with the medical tourist facilitator does not end after your treatment. They are by your side during the postoperative phase, if you need any help with the service providers. 7.     No language and cultural issues – Reputed medical tourism companies have facilitated many medical tourists. Even though you go with a facilitator from your country, the local representative in the visiting country most probably will be a local. Facilitators make sure that the representatives speak your language, know your need and the cultural differences and are experienced enough to have the right processes in place to place you at ease. Cons:1.     Varying quality of services – There are various players in the market, of varying shapes and sizes and varying capacity. It can be a challenging task to choose a facilitator, as there is lack of differentiation. The websites look the same their offerings are indistinguishable and their process nearly identical. Doing your homework is very vital before identifying the right facilitator for you. 2.     Limited choice – Every facilitator has a limited number of service providers they work with. The reason being, there are hundreds of service providers in a country and it makes more business sense for the facilitators to partner with only a few. Ever facilitator will tell you that the service providers they have partnered with are the best in the country (not always right). So as a consumer, you are not exposed to all the options in the market. In this scenario you don’t always get the best option for your needs. 3.     Pricing – Convenience isn’t free and don’t believe it even if the facilitators say so. You will be paying a premium for all the benefits you get by hiring a facilitator. The mark up can go up to 20% (from a Mckinsey report on medical tourism)4.     Miscommunication – The least of the concerns but can have a huge impact. Having a middleman can lead to miscommunication between the patient and the service provider. Its essential that you have everything in writing and have double-checked for errors. There are certain advantages and disadvantages of going with a medical tourism facilitator. I hope this post has answered some of your concerns.

Medical tourism is a high-growth industry being driven by globalization and rising healthcare costs in developed countries. More than thirty countries in Asia, Africa and Eastern Europe are serving millions of medical tourists annually. Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, India and Philippines are the major destinations in the Asian medical tourism market. Thailand is more well loved among Western European medical tourists for cosmetic surgery. Singapore and India specialize in complex procedures with India having a cost advantage and Singapore a technology advantage. Global economic downturn has resulted in decline in visitor numbers in Singapore and the same holds right for medical tourists also. The decline is most among Indonesian patients, but is being compensated by patients from other places such as Vietnam and the Middle East. The private healthcare market in Singapore could witness a period of slower growth due to declining medical tourists. The healthcare industry in Thailand has seen rapid growth in recent years, ahead of the country’s GDP. In Thailand, medical costs are lower than in Singapore and also, it is a much more well loved tourist destination. The cost of healthcare in Thailand is about five times lesser than it is in the US. The Malaysian government is aggressively promoting medical tourism. It has extended the visa period for health tourists from one month to six months. Major hospitals in Malaysia are targeting new markets such as Vietnam and Cambodia. India is one of the lowest cost and highest quality of all medical tourism destinations. It offers low-cost cardiovascular and orthopaedic procedures, at about one-tenth the cost of similar surgeries in the US. Taiwan provides high-quality healthcare at very competitive prices but is a slow starter. A liver transplant costs half as much in Taiwan as in Singapore. China is a key target market for Taiwanese hospitals. The Korean government is promoting the nation’s growing medical tourism industry and has set a target of 100,000 foreign patients by 2012. But, Korea is considered to be a latecomer in medical tourism industry. This report gives an overview of the medical tourism industry with focus on Asia. It discusses the major medical tourist destinations like Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, India, Philippines, Taiwan and South Korea and their respective competitive advantages. The major healthcare organizations in Asia are also profiled in the later part of the report. Table of Contents :”1. Medical Tourism: An Overview2. Market OverviewWorldwide Market2. 1 Singapore2. 2 Thailand2. 3 Malaysia2. 4 India2. 5 Philippines2. 6 Taiwan2. 7 South Korea3. US – Outbound Medical Tourism4. Rise of Medical Tourism in Africa & Middle-East4. 1 Uganda4. 2 Tunisia4. 3 Jordan4. 4 UAE5. Profiles of Major Hospitals5. 1 Bumrungrad HospitalOverviewDecline of Foreign PatientsSwine Flu ConcernInternational Projects on HoldEffective Cost Control Programs5. 2 ParkwayOverviewLeverages Brand NameStrategy to Maintain Patient VolumeExpansion in SingaporeAdded Advantage of Regional Presence5. 3 Bangkok Dusit Medical ServicesOverviewDecline in InpatientsExpected Benefit from Tourism Turnaround5. 4 Raffles Medical GroupOverviewGroup Practice ModelDiversified Foreign Customer Base5. 5 Thomson MedicalOverviewFocus on Cost ControlExpansion of Overseas NetworkRenovation ProgramIncrease in Patient Load5. 6 KPJ HealthcareOverviewOverseas ExpansionGrowing CompetitionLow Average Revenue per Patient5. 7 Apollo HospitalsOverviewExpansion PlanList of TablesMedical Tourism Destinations by RegionPatient Demand – US Outbound Tourism (2007-12E)Comparative Cost of Major Medical Procedures by CountryParkway’s Hospitals and Medical Centers in AsiaRaffles Medical Group – Hospital Division Statistics (2006-08)Thomson Medical – Specialized ServicesList of Hospitals Owned by KPJ HealthcareExpansion Plans of Corporate Hospital Groups in IndiaList of ChartsMedical Tourism – Service NetworkWorldwide Medical Tourism Market (2006/12E)Singapore – Monthly Visitor Arrival (2008)Singapore – Population Growth by Gender (2003-07)Singapore – Medical Tourist Arrival (2006-07)Singapore – Foreign Patients by Nationality (2007)Thailand – Inflow of Foreign Patients (2000-10E)Thailand – Revenue from Foreign Patients (2005-07)Malaysia – Inflow of Foreign Patients (2006-08)Malaysia Private Healthcare – Market Share (2007)Malaysia – Foreign Patients by Nationality (2007)India – Inflow of Foreign Patients (2006-08)Philippines – Inflow of Foreign Patients (2007-12E)South Korea – Inflow of Foreign Patients (2007-12E)Tunisia – Inflow of Foreign Patients (2005-07)Jordan – Foreign Patients by Nationality (2007)Bumrungrad Hospital – Tourist Arrival Growth Vs Foreign Patient Growth (2008)Parkway Hospital – Private Patient Admission (2005-07)Bangkok Hospital – Revenue Breakdown by Thai/Foreign Patients (2008)Bangkok Dusit Medical Services – Revenue Breakdown by Hospital (2006-08)Raffles Medical Group – Foreign Patients by Nationality (2007)Thomson Medical – No. of Inpatient Admissions (2006-08)For more information please visit :http://www. aarkstore. com/reports/Medical-Tourism-Market-Report-2009-Edition-19979. html