Medical Tourism Destination: Thailand
For decades, thousands of Americans and Europeans have been traveling to Thailand seeking medical treatment at affordable prices.
In fact, Thailand is considered by many to be the global leader in medical tourism.
Boasting the first hospital in Asia to attain ISO 9001 accreditation, Thailand takes medical tourism seriously.
In fact, Bumrungrad Hospital in Bangkok proudly hosts more foreign patients than any other hospital in the world, with accommodations that look more like rooms in a 5-star hotel than those in a hospital.
The national air carrier, Thai Airways, began packaging medical check-ups as part of its Royal Orchid Holidays program.
And patients can clock up their frequent flier miles to apply to the costs of their post-procedure check-ups.
From meeting their patients on arrival at the airport to providing luxurious accommodations complete with welcoming fruit baskets and a complimentary massage, what more can be said to prove that Thailand goes above and beyond the call of duty to provide world-class service to its medical tourists? But, aside from the luxurious pampering, what exactly does Thailand have to offer as a medical travel destination? With more than 400 private hospitals, many offering world-class standards, doctors and specialists trained in US or European medical schools, and state-of-the-art technology, Thailand promises quality medical care at a fraction of the cost of its Western counterparts.
The Thai baht has an extremely favorable exchange rate when compared to the US dollar or the Euro.
This, when paired with lower medical costs in general, passes huge savings along to the medical traveler.
One might expect to pay as little as 20% of the cost for procedures identical to those provided in a Western hospital.
Some medical, dental, or diagnostic procedures may cost as much as 700 to 800% more in the US when compared to their cost in Thailand! Thai hospitals make every effort to make the medical tourist's stay a trouble-free experience.
So, to minimize any possible language barrier, they employ staff who are fluent in English.
Many doctors and specialists have had overseas training.
Striving to meet demand, some hospitals have even employed Arabic-speaking personnel to meet the needs of some of their foreign guests.
With such attention to detail, it is obvious that they are determined to go the extra mile.
Thailand offers a full spectrum of quality medical and health care options, from cosmetic and plastic surgery to lasik eye treatment.
Weight loss procedures, such as a lap band surgery, cardiac care, dental care, elective surgeries, and gender reassignment surgeries are all popular and affordable choices.
The government joins in these efforts for providing a trouble-free medical holiday by allowing visitors from many nations a stay of up to 30 days without needing a visa.
And, once in Thailand, if you should decide to extend your stay, a one-month extension is available for around $50.
Two-month visas are easily attainable through the Thai embassy in the traveler's home country.
For visits of longer than 60 days, the traveler can apply for a non-immigrant visa.
Aside from the many advantages of opting for medical treatment in Thailand, the nation is a highly acclaimed exotic vacation spot, rich in its history and culture.
Known for its Buddhas, its tropical sandy beaches, and its fantastic shopping opportunities, from the bustle of Bangkok to the thriving night life, from the luxurious and relaxing spas to the vast array of Asian cuisine, Thailand has something to offer to everyone.
So visit the "land of smiles" and combine health care with a delightful holiday stay.
In fact, Thailand is considered by many to be the global leader in medical tourism.
Boasting the first hospital in Asia to attain ISO 9001 accreditation, Thailand takes medical tourism seriously.
In fact, Bumrungrad Hospital in Bangkok proudly hosts more foreign patients than any other hospital in the world, with accommodations that look more like rooms in a 5-star hotel than those in a hospital.
The national air carrier, Thai Airways, began packaging medical check-ups as part of its Royal Orchid Holidays program.
And patients can clock up their frequent flier miles to apply to the costs of their post-procedure check-ups.
From meeting their patients on arrival at the airport to providing luxurious accommodations complete with welcoming fruit baskets and a complimentary massage, what more can be said to prove that Thailand goes above and beyond the call of duty to provide world-class service to its medical tourists? But, aside from the luxurious pampering, what exactly does Thailand have to offer as a medical travel destination? With more than 400 private hospitals, many offering world-class standards, doctors and specialists trained in US or European medical schools, and state-of-the-art technology, Thailand promises quality medical care at a fraction of the cost of its Western counterparts.
The Thai baht has an extremely favorable exchange rate when compared to the US dollar or the Euro.
This, when paired with lower medical costs in general, passes huge savings along to the medical traveler.
One might expect to pay as little as 20% of the cost for procedures identical to those provided in a Western hospital.
Some medical, dental, or diagnostic procedures may cost as much as 700 to 800% more in the US when compared to their cost in Thailand! Thai hospitals make every effort to make the medical tourist's stay a trouble-free experience.
So, to minimize any possible language barrier, they employ staff who are fluent in English.
Many doctors and specialists have had overseas training.
Striving to meet demand, some hospitals have even employed Arabic-speaking personnel to meet the needs of some of their foreign guests.
With such attention to detail, it is obvious that they are determined to go the extra mile.
Thailand offers a full spectrum of quality medical and health care options, from cosmetic and plastic surgery to lasik eye treatment.
Weight loss procedures, such as a lap band surgery, cardiac care, dental care, elective surgeries, and gender reassignment surgeries are all popular and affordable choices.
The government joins in these efforts for providing a trouble-free medical holiday by allowing visitors from many nations a stay of up to 30 days without needing a visa.
And, once in Thailand, if you should decide to extend your stay, a one-month extension is available for around $50.
Two-month visas are easily attainable through the Thai embassy in the traveler's home country.
For visits of longer than 60 days, the traveler can apply for a non-immigrant visa.
Aside from the many advantages of opting for medical treatment in Thailand, the nation is a highly acclaimed exotic vacation spot, rich in its history and culture.
Known for its Buddhas, its tropical sandy beaches, and its fantastic shopping opportunities, from the bustle of Bangkok to the thriving night life, from the luxurious and relaxing spas to the vast array of Asian cuisine, Thailand has something to offer to everyone.
So visit the "land of smiles" and combine health care with a delightful holiday stay.
