This blog was originally posted here: http://www.globebloggers.co.uk/index.php/2011/01/medical-tourism-on...

There was some really interesting chat on the radio the other day all about medical tourism, and I just thought I would share some of the thoughts on it with you. The report was on BBC Essex Radio at about 9am on the 19th January. Now the report didn’t really bring up anything new, but what was said was still important, and so worth highlighting.

One of the key points was that medical tourism can sometimes be obtained through the NHS – it is not always a matter of going private. This is something I have talked about in previous blogs but it is always worth finding out from your GP, or PCT if this is an option.

And what were the motivating factors for individuals choosing to go for treatment abroad. Well these produced the standard answers of waiting time and cost. One interviewee had a hip operation abroad, as they didn’t want to wait so long for their NHS appointment. Another interviewee required dental treatment that was going to cost around £15,000 in the UK. He decided to have the treatment in Hungary instead, saving over £5000 (and that is after factoring in the additional travel costs). He had some interesting points to make though – highlighting how he needed to do a lot of research before he went for the treatment – it was almost like planning a wedding!! Another key point he made was that it is a good idea if the company you use has an office in the UK as this can be far better if you need (although hopefully not) to undergo any legal process further down the line. These are all points that I have been made before, particularly about the planning, but it is good to see that other people agree with them!

And as the radio presenter pointed out, the fact that this interviewee has been through the process actually is one of the most useful things of all – a recommendation from someone can be a great decision maker if you are thinking of treatment abroad.