Travelling for treatment can be a good option for many people; but as with any medical procedure there are risks, and some relate to the travel.
Possible risks
- Inadequate preliminary assessment and unsuitable candidate selection
- Infection and complications
- Flight-related problems (for example clot risk after some procedures)
- Lack of follow-up after returning home
- Language barriers and unclear contract terms
To reduce risk
- Verify the licence and specialty details of the facility and physician.
- Share your medical history and medication fully.
- Ask for a written offer and scope; find out the follow-up plan after the procedure.
- Plan the flight date with your physician and leave enough time for recovery.
- Identify a local doctor you can see when you are back home.
When to walk away
Pushy sales language, guaranteed results or not being allowed to speak with the physician are warning signs.
Before deciding, make sure all your questions have been answered.
This article is general information; diagnosis and treatment decisions are always made after a physician's examination.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Consult a physician for a personal assessment.
