Statement on medical tourism by ACS (American College of Surgeons)

Today, medical tourism is a widely accepted and proven formula for top quality care at low cost. Given the manifold increase in the number of patients traveling overseas for medical and surgical care from the US, the American College of Surgeons (ACS) has recognized that surgical care has become more readily available in a wider global market, and that this phenomenon is here to stay. So, the College recently developed an official "Statement on Medical and Surgical Tourism", which according to ACS is "consistent with the College’s longstanding advocacy position of promoting an environment of optimal care for the surgical patient".

The College has developed several key principles (listed below) for those who choose to seek surgical care abroad. The College:

• encourages patients to seek care of the highest quality and supports their rights to select their surgeons and health care institutions without restriction.


• encourages its Fellows to assist all patients in reaching informed decisions concerning medical care, whether at home or abroad.


• advises patients to consider the medical, social, cultural, and legal implications of seeking medical treatment abroad prior to deciding on a venue of care.


• encourages patients electing to receive treatment abroad to seek care at health care institutions that have met the standards for accreditation established by recognized accrediting organizations.


• encourages patients electing treatment abroad to seek care from surgeons and anesthesiologists certified in their specialties through a process equivalent to that established by the member boards of the American Board of Medical Specialties.


• encourages patients receiving treatment abroad to obtain a complete set of medical records prior to returning home so that the details of their care are immediately available to their physicians and surgeons in the U.S. Follow-up care at home should be organized prior to travel whenever possible.


• encourages patients contemplating medical tourism to understand the special risks of combining long international flights and certain vacation activities with anesthesia and surgical procedures.


• opposes the imposition of provisions for mandatory referral of patients by insurers to health care institutions outside the U.S., unless such provisions are clearly and explicitly stated in the insurance contract and accepted by the subscriber.


• supports the view that payors referring patients for mandatory treatment abroad should be responsible for the coordination and reimbursement of follow-up care in the U.S., including the management of postoperative complications, readmissions, rehabilitation, and long-term care.

Source: Statement on Medical and Surgical Tourism by ACS

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Domestic medical tourism - saving money on surgery in US

Medical Tourism is no longer restricted to outbound medical tourism i.e. Americans seeking care outside of the country. Domestic medical tourism is gathering pace as more and more Americans are now crossing state borders to take advantage of cheaper prices available for quality health care out-of-state. It's amazing to know that the price differential on healthcare within the same country can be tremendous if only you take the trouble to shop for it.

Recently Healthbase partnered with many health care providers in several states within the United States. The prices on major procedures that these providers offer to Healthbase clients are as low as 10% of the prevailing cost of those procedures in other typical hospitals within the country. Read more about this partnership.

So how can some US providers offer such low rates?
Patients can avail of such low rates if they choose the one-pay option. AARP Bulletin Today recently covered the story of Rodney Larson, an uninsured Minnesota resident and a Healthbase customer who had his triple bypass surgery at a heart care hospital in Kansas.

According to the bulletin,

As a father to nine daughters, electrician Rodney Larson always looks for ways to cut costs. So in 2008 when he was told he needed triple bypass surgery - totaling $80,000 or more - he shopped around.

Larson, 56, of Boyd, Minn., searched the Internet and found a hospital that would do the surgery for $13,200. The facility, Galichia Heart Hospital in Wichita, Kan., participates in a domestic medical tourism program run by Healthbase Online.

Located in Boston, Healthbase is one of a handful of companies reaching out to U.S. hospitals to provide specialty surgeries at much lower costs than traditional providers. The company also offers international medical tourism - in which patients travel abroad for procedures - but is finding a market for U.S. specialty hospitals.

Most patients who use medical tourism companies are uninsured and must pay upfront for procedures. Larson liked the one-pay option.

"They saved me a lot of money, but the point is, it was excellent care," he says.

Source: AARP Bulletin Today

Available procedures
Most major procedures are available at discounted rates within the US through Healthbase. Procedures fall in the categories of cardiac, orthopedic, bariatric, spinal, etc.

Want to know if the procedure you need is available and how much it costs?

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Healthbase featured in the Wall Street Journal

By Victoria Knight, Dow Jones Newswires

A post recently appeared in the Wall Street Journal Blog which talked about Healthbase, Healthbase's customers and the latest trend in medical tourism - traveling from one state to another within the United States in search for cheaper prices for major surgeries. Healthbase is one company that has been helping American patients connect to affordable hospitals in the US for major surgeries. The author writes,

Uninsured Americans also are shopping around for surgery in the U.S. in record numbers, and using new services such as Healthbase Online Inc. , a Boston-based medical brokerage that arranges treatments for patients at health-care facilities worldwide. Rodney Larson, a self-employed electrician from Minnesota, used Healthbase Online to arrange a triple heart bypass at Galichia Heart Hospital in Wichita, Kansas. He paid $13,000 flat fee for the surgery, about $90,000 dollars less than the rate for uninsured patients in Minnesota.

The current economic conditions...

Worsening economic conditions have made employers and workers more inventive in dealing with ever-rising health-care costs. Some are taking advantage of new health services that offer fixed rates for surgery to patients willing to travel to get care.

The financial benefits of domestic and international medical tourism cannot be overlooked and some insurers have taken active steps to reduce the health care costs for their clients in this slowing economy by offering them medical tourism options. The author mentions about the forward thinking by some health insurers and writes,

It’s a strategy that giving some insurers food for thought. WellPoint Inc., the nation’s largest health insurer, is currently evaluating programs and benefits where customers can "elect to seek certain services at designated facilities for a fixed per-case rate ," according to a spokeswoman, Jill Becher.

Others insurers aren’t sold on asking customers to travel for health care. Aetna Inc. says it already negotiates significant discounts with medical providers. Typically, it pays physicians within three days of submitting a claim, so up-front cash payments aren’t a strong incentive for achieving additional discounts, according to a company spokesperson.

Request FREE quote for affordable major surgery within US or overseas

More at: Wall Street Journal Blog

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Medical complications insurance for medical tourists

Medical Tourism Facilitator and International Insurer Partner to Provide New Protection for Medical Tourists

Press Release
January 28, 2009

Seven Corners, one of the industry's most experienced specialty travel insurance underwriters, announces a new partnership with award-winning medical tourism facilitator, Healthbase Online, Inc. By combining Seven Corners' experience in underwriting and administering specialty travel insurance plans, and Healthbase's expertise in matching medical tourism patients with a world-class network of internationally accredited hospitals, the companies have developed the industry's first custom benefits package covering medical complications to be provided to all Healthbase clients.

The strategic alliance between Seven Corners and Healthbase is founded on a shared vision to unify patients seeking medical treatments abroad with relevant medical insurance benefits specifically designed for medical tourists. By engaging the companies' unique and expert competencies in their respective markets, the alliance will allow both companies to better serve the unique needs of medical tourists -- ultimately transforming the medical tourism business by reducing patients' medical costs before, during and after treatments abroad.

"We are the only medical travel facilitator to provide a custom insurance program to our clients as a further commitment to providing high quality medical travel services at an affordable cost," said Saroja Mohanasundaram, CEO of Healthbase. "The insurance program enhances our clients' satisfaction in the economic delivery of quality healthcare; whether they are seeking minor procedures like hernia surgery, or major procedures like knee replacement or spinal surgeries."

The insurance plan provides Healthbase patients coverage for the treatment of common surgical complications such as adverse reactions to anesthesia, stroke, myocardial infarction, deep vein thrombosis, infections and other medical complications incurred during and after their treatment abroad. The insurance plan provides first dollar coverage for medical complications, which further reduces follow-up care and unexpected medical expenses for an uninsured or underinsured patient.

"The cost of the insurance plan is a fraction of the overall cost of the treatment, which in and of itself, is significantly less than the expense of treatment in the United States," said Jim Krampen, executive officer of Seven Corners. "The medical complication benefits we designed for Healthbase clients will provide peace of mind and cover the cost to treat medical complications abroad and when they return home."

About Healthbase:

Healthbase is a one-stop source for global medical and dental choices, connecting patients to internationally accredited providers in 14 countries including India, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Turkey, Panama, Costa Rica and Mexico. Healthbase caters to individual consumers, self-funded businesses, insurers, benefits plan consultants, third party administrators and those using Consumer Directed Healthcare Plans (CDHPs) or voluntary benefit plans. More information at http://www.healthbase.com.

About Seven Corners

Seven Corners is one of the industry's most experienced international travel, expatriate health insurance and trip cancellation providers. For more than 15 years, Seven Corners has served the medical insurance needs of U.S. citizens traveling abroad and foreign nationals visiting the United States.

Seven Corners is a licensed Third Party Administrator as required in certain jurisdictions of the United States. Seven Corners is a Lloyd's of London Coverholder and also enjoys underwriting authority from key AM Best "A" rated carriers, such as Nationwide Insurance Company, The Insurance Company of the State of Pennsylvania (AIG) and Fairmont Specialty Group.

Seven Corners is a member of the U.S. Travel Insurance Association (UStiA), the Medical Tourism Association (MTA) and the International Medical Travel Association (IMTA). More information at http://www.SevenCorners.com.

Cost of surgery abroad

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Healthbase Collaborates with WellPoint to Bring Affordable Medical Tourism Solutions to Americans

Healthbase collaborates with WellPoint to bring affordable healthcare benefits to Americans through an international medical tourism pilot program. Members will now have more choices regarding where to receive care and a greater involvement in the care they receive

BOSTON, Jan. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Healthbase Online Inc., a Boston-based award-winning medical tourism facilitator, has collaborated on a pilot basis with WellPoint, Inc., an Indianapolis-based health benefits company to provide global health care coverage to members of WellPoint's affiliated health plan in Wisconsin. Healthbase will handle all the medical travel logistics and arrangements for WellPoint members.

According to Saroja Mohanasundaram, CEO of Healthbase (http://www.healthbase.com), "Healthbase is committed to providing high quality medical travel services at affordable cost. Healthbase will assist WellPoint members with coordination of the trip, medical appointment scheduling, digital medical records transfer, and concierge travel service."

Under this program, effective from January 2009, members who travel for certain non-emergency elective procedures like joint replacement and spinal fusion, will have access to Joint Commission International accredited healthcare providers in India. This will result to lower out-of-pocket costs for members translating into thousands of dollars in total savings. A hip replacement surgery, for example, costing over $60,000 in the US, costs less than $8,000 at an accredited hospital in India.

"We are pleased to work collectively with Healthbase to deliver an international medical tourism pilot product to our clients who are interested in exploring a medical tourism solution," said Dr. Razia Hashmi, vice president and medical director for WellPoint's national accounts division. "Medical tourism is a promising option for improving access to affordable, quality health care. Working with Healthbase, our case managers will coordinate all steps of the medical tourism process for members interested in receiving care overseas."

About Healthbase:

Healthbase is a one-stop source for global medical and dental choices, connecting patients to internationally accredited providers in 14 countries including India, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Turkey, Panama, Costa Rica and Mexico. Healthbase caters to individual consumers, self-funded businesses, insurers, benefit consultants, third party administrators and those using Consumer Directed Healthcare Plans (CDHPs) or voluntary benefit plans. More information at http://www.healthbase.com.

About WellPoint, Inc.:

WellPoint, Inc. is the largest health benefits company in terms of medical membership in the United States. WellPoint is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association and serves its members as the Blue Cross licensee for California; the Blue Cross and Blue Shield licensee for Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri (excluding 30 counties in the Kansas City area), Nevada, New Hampshire, New York (as the Blue Cross Blue Shield licensee in 10 New York City metropolitan and surrounding counties and as the Blue Cross or Blue Cross Blue Shield licensee in selected upstate counties only), Ohio, Virginia (excluding the northern Virginia suburbs of Washington, D.C.), Wisconsin; and through UniCare. Additional information about WellPoint is available at http://www.wellpoint.com.

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Healthbase helps uninsured American get double Birmingham hip resurfacing in India

Healthbase has helped an uninsured American patient get double hip resurfacing surgeries in India. The high cost of Birmingham hip resurfacing surgery in the United States plus the lack of expertise in this procedure in the country continues to drive scores of Americans to India.

Nov. 21, 2008, Boston, MA. Healthbase Online Inc., an award-winning medical tourism facilitator based in Boston, Massachusetts, helps an Arizona-based former ballet dancer treat her hip osteoarthritis in India. 53-year old Katharine Frey who had arthritis in both her hips traveled to Apollo Hospitals, Chennai to have her hips resurfaced and availed of the 85% discount on the cost of the surgery.

"I have appreciated everything we have experienced and received at the Apollo Hospitals . Everyone has been very kind, supportive and helpful," says Katharine after her hip resurfacing surgery last winter. She was so happy with the quality of care she received at her overseas hospital that she went back a few months later to have her second hip resurfaced.

Being uninsured, the $60,000 required to have a single hip resurfaced in the US seemed out of reach for Katharine. This led her into researching her other option - surgery overseas - and contacting Healthbase who coordinated both her surgeries in India for $8,000 each. The price included doctor's fees, physical therapy and a week in the hospital.

According to Saroja Mohanasundaram, CEO of Healthbase , "Our clients prefer going abroad for Birmingham hip resurfacing because it is a fairly new procedure in the US but has been in use, say, in India, for many years. Being a major procedure it demands years of practice on the surgeon's part to gain proficiency. The fact that Katharine went back to have her other hip resurfaced in India speaks volumes about the high level of satisfaction with our service and that of our partner hospitals and surgeons."

Katharine returned to work merely two and a half weeks post operation and to teaching ballet twenty days post operation. Katharine actively participates in swimming, yoga, hiking, paragliding, and cross-country road trips. "She has no pain in her hips and is moving and functioning like a normal human. I am so grateful and am enjoying watching Katharine return to life," remarks Scott Martin, Katharine's husband.

Katharine was operated upon by Dr. Vijay Bose and his team. Dr. Bose, a specialist in Birmingham Hip Resurfacing, Joint Replacement and Sports Medicine, has over a thousand BHR surgeries under his belt.
"Beyond the cost savings, the attention given was remarkable. Dr. Bose and his qualified staff will always be remembered for this," adds Katharine.

Impressed by the high quality of care in India, even Scott, who accompanied Katharine to India addressed some of his periodontal issues through dental scaling and crowns at Apollo Hospitals while Katharine recuperated after her second Birmingham hip resurfacing surgery.

"It has been a positive life changing process for both of us. Thank you, Healthbase, for being so receptive, supportive and professional," acknowledge Katharine and Scott.

Healthbase connects patients from across the globe to health care facilities in India, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, South Korea, Philippines, Turkey, Belgium, Hungary, Costa Rica, Panama, Brazil, Mexico and United States. Healthbase has over 45 providers on its network.

About Healthbase Online Inc.:

Healthbase, an award-winning Boston-based medical tourism and dental tourism facilitator, is a one-stop source for global medical and dental choices, connecting patients to leading healthcare providers around the world. Healthbase coordinates over 200 procedures in various categories like orthopedic, spinal , cardiac, bariatric, urology , oncology , dental , cosmetic and general surgery . Some of the common procedures offered are Birmingham hip resurfacing , total hip replacement , knee replacement , ACL repair , rotator cuff surgery , spinal fusion , spinal disk replacement, heart bypass surgery , lap band , gastric bypass , cancer treatment , liposuction, dental implants, crowns, bridges, etc. for a fraction of the cost in the US with equal or superior outcomes. Healthbase's partner healthcare facilities are located in Thailand, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, South Korea, Turkey, Belgium, Hungary, Costa Rica, Panama, Brazil, Mexico and USA, and are expanding to Canada, UK, Jordan, Taiwan, Argentina, New Zealand, Australia, El Salvador and Guatemala. To ensure that patients receive the best care possible, Healthbase works mainly with hospitals that have international accreditations like JCI, JCAHO and ISO. Healthbase caters to the needs of individual consumers, self-funded businesses, insurance carriers, benefit consultants, insurance agents, and third party administrators seeking affordable medical travel and dental travel options. To learn more, call 1-888-691-4584, email info.hb @ healthbase.com or visit http://www.healthbase.com.

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Affordable urinary diversion and reconstruction surgery

Urinary diversion is a way of surgically rerouting or diverting urine flow from its normal pathway in order to treat the condition of diseased or defective ureters, bladder or urethra, either temporarily or permanently. Using the surgical method of urinary reconstruction and diversion a new way is created for the patient to pass urine.

There are three main types of urinary diversion surgeries
• Ileal Conduit Urinary Diversion
• Indiana Pouch Reservoir
• Neobladder to Urethra Diversion

For all of these procedures, a portion of the small and/or large bowel is disconnected from the fecal stream and used for reconstruction.

Ileal Conduit Urinary Diversion: The ileal conduit urinary diversion surgery is used in patients who have had their bladder removed and is usually used in conjunction with radical cystectomy in order to control invasive bladder cancer. In this procedure, the ureters are surgically unattached from the bladder and a ureteroenteric anastomosis is made in order to drain the urine into a detached section of ileum (a part of the small intestine). The end of the ileum is then brought out through an opening (a stoma) in the abdominal wall. The urine is collected through a bag that attaches on the outside of the body over the stoma. The bag must be periodically emptied of urine.

Indiana Pouch Reservoir: The Indiana pouch surgery is used for patients who have had their urinary bladders removed as a result of bladder cancer, pelvic exenteration, bladder exstrophy or who are not continent due to a congenital, neurogenic bladder. In this procedure, a reservoir, or pouch, is created out of approximately two feet of the ascending colon and a portiom of the ileum (a part of the small intestine). The ureters are surgically removed from the bladder and repositioned to drain into the pouch. A piece of small intestine is brought out through a small opening in the abdominal wall called a stoma. Since a segment including the large and small intestines are utilized, also included is the ileal-ceceal valve. This is a one-way valve located between the small and large intestines which normally prevents the passage of bacteria and digested matter from re-entering the small intestine. After a period of several weeks, the body adjusts to the absence of this valve by absorbing more liquids and nutrients. Unlike other urinary diversion and reconstruction techniques, the Indiana pouch has the advantage of not using an external pouch adhered to the abdomen to store urine.

Neobladder to Urethra Diversion: With the Neobladder to Urethra Diversion procedure, the intent is to create a new bladder that mimics the storage function of a normal urinary bladder. The surgery makes a reservoir or pouch by utilizing a small part of the small intestine and connects the pouch to the urethra. The ureters are repositioned to drain into this pouch. As in normal urinary system, urine is able to pass from the kidney, to the ureters, to the pouch, and through the urethra out of the body.

For information about affordable urinary diversion and reconstruction surgery, check out Healthbase.
Healthbase is the trusted source for global medical choices, connecting patients to leading hospitals around the world, through secure and information-rich web portal. To learn more, visit: http://www.healthbase.com Login to get FREE quote. Access is free.

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Human Spine, Back Pain and Spine Surgery

Brought to you by Healthbase http://www.healthbase.com/ info.hb@healthbase.com 1-888-MY1-HLTH

WHAT MAKES YOUR BACK

Anatomy of the human spine

Have you ever wondered what makes your back and neck bend, stretch and even rotate so swiftly and smoothly? These movements are possible due to the spinal column or vertebral column in your body which extends from the skull to the pelvis and is made up of 33 individual bones termed vertebrae. The vertebral column is not actually a column but is sort of a spiral spring in the form of the letter S.

The following figure illustrates the human spinal column:



Between each vertebra are strong connective tissues which hold one vertebra to the next, and acts as a cushion between the vertebrae. The disc allows for movements of the vertebrae and lets you bend and rotate your neck and back. The type and degree of motion varies between the different levels of the spine: cervical (neck), thoracic (chest) or lumbar (low back).

The cervical spine is a highly mobile region that permits movement in all directions. The thoracic spine is much more rigid due to the presence of ribs and is designed to protect the heart and lungs. The lumbar spine allows mostly forward and backward bending movements (flexion and extension).

WHAT BREAKS YOUR BACK

Spinal osteoarthritis


Spinal arthritis or osteoarthritis of the spine is a common cause of back pain. It is the mechanical breakdown of the cartilage between the vertebral joints in the back portion of the spine leading to mechanically induced pain. The joints become inflamed and pain may be felt when performing even the simplest of activities like standing, sitting or walking. Over time, bone spurs - small irregular growths on the bone, also called osteophytes - typicaly form on the vertebral joints and around the spinal vertebrae which may become so large as to cause irritation or entrapment of nerves passing through spinal structures and result in spinal stenosis (diminished room for the nerves to pass).

Classification of spinal osteoarthritis
- Lower back (lumbar spine) osteoarthritis or lumbosacral arthritis, which produces stiffness and pain in the lower spine and sacroiliac joint (between the spine and the pelvis)
- Neck (cervical spine) osteoarthritis or cervical spondylosis, which causes stiffness and pain in the upper spine, neck, shoulders, arms and head.

Causes of spinal osteoarthritis
The most common causes are repetitive trauma to the spine from repetitive strains caused by accidents, surgery, sports injuries and poor posture. Other risk factors include aging, gender (more common in post-menopausal women), excess body weight, genetics, and associated diseases (like infections, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.)

WHAT REMAKES A BROKEN BACK

Surgical treatment of spinal arthritis

For spinal arthritis, the only effective surgical treatment is spine fusion surgery, to stop motion at the painful joint. In fusion, one or more of the vertebrae of the spine are united (fused together) using bone grafts so that motion no longer occurs between them.



Uses of spinal fusion surgery

Spinal fusion surgery is used to treat:
- a fractured (broken) vertebra e.g. spondylolisthesis
- deformity e.g. scoliosis or kyphosis (spinal curves or slippages)
- pain from painful motion
- instability
- some cervical disc herniations (fusion together with discectomy)
- weak or unstable spine caused by infections or tumors

Read more information about spine fusion surgery.

To arrange your spine surgery overseas or for any medical procedure, dental procedure or cosmetic procedure , contact Healthbase. Healthbase is an award-winning medical tourism facilitator connecting patients to leading healthcare facilities worldwide . Cost of surgical care at Healthbase's partner hospitals is a fraction of the cost of similar care in the US for equal or superior outcomes.

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Vermont Yoga Teacher Tries Out Medical Tourism

By Brian Wallstin
Seven Days
Vermont's Independent Voice

By January, Jane Schaeffer could barely manage a walk around the block, which was no surprise: She needed a new hip.

Schaeffer, who is 64 and a yoga teacher in Bennington, didn’t like that prognosis. So, she consulted the oracle of Hippocrates — the Internet — and concluded that what she wanted was a Birmingham Hip-Resurfacing , or BHR, a less-invasive procedure developed in England and approved in the U.S. in 2006.

Unfortunately, Schaeffer’s insurance company, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont, saw her case differently and insisted that, at her age, she should have her hip replaced . That left Schaeffer, if she wanted to get better, with a choice: Get a new hip on BCBSVT, or pull together $8000 and have the joint “resurfaced” in India.

For Schaeffer, it was no choice at all. On April 18, she underwent a BHR at Apollo Hospital in New Delhi. Two weeks later, she was home, preparing to return to work. “With full hip replacement , I would never have full range of motion in my hip,” she said. “I would never be able to teach properly again.”

Americans have been going abroad for health care for years. Retirement communities in Arizona routinely bus fixed-income residents over the Mexican border, where the prescription drugs and dental care are cheaper. For those with radically different needs, and a certain disposable income, Brazil and Argentina are famous for skilled, cut-rate plastic surgery; a $10,000 tummy tuck in L.A. or Houston might cost a third as much at Plenitas, a boutique clinic in Buenos Aires.

In the last few years, hospitals in exotic locales such as India , Singapore and Thailand have aggressively marketed major surgical procedures — heart bypasses and coronary valve replacements , for instance — at drastically lower prices than are available in the United States. And more and more Americans are taking advantage of it. A 2007 study by the National Center for Policy Analysis in Dallas estimated that about 500,000 U.S. residents traveled abroad for care in 2005. According to the management consultant McKinsey & Company, the worldwide “medical tourism ” industry was worth $60 billion in 2006, and is expected to reach $100 billion by 2012.

Concerns about the quality of care abroad have all but disappeared, thanks to improved standards of care that are monitored by accreditation bodies, such as Joint Commission International and the International Society for Quality in Health Care. Studies have shown that mortality rates at hospitals that specialize in medical tourism are as low as, or lower than, those at U.S. hospitals.

Jane Schaeffer said Apollo Hospital in New Delhi “was really a whole different universe.

“The whole situation there is set up for people who have hip resurfacing,” she said. “I had [physical therapy] twice a day, the surgeon came in twice a day to visit . . . I can’t recommend it highly enough.”

Schaeffer made her own travel arrangements to New Delhi but relied on an online broker, Healthbase , to find a doctor and hospital for the operation. Saroja Mohanasundaram, Healthbase’s chief executive officer, said her company has formed “partnerships” with major hospitals in 11 countries . Her staff handles everything from digitizing and transferring patient medical records, to arranging airport transfers and hotel accommodations.

“The medical part is the main thing,” Mohanasundaram said. “Once they like the facility and the doctor, then we try to help them with the logistics.”

Schaeffer said she arranged any needed follow-up care with an orthopedic surgeon in Bennington prior to her trip — a practice the AMA lists among its guidelines for those considering traveling abroad for health care. But, since her return from New Delhi on April 30, she has been walking without crutches and has full range of motion in her hip.

Her next step is to ask Blue Cross Blue Shield, which declined to authorize the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing, to reimburse her for the surgery.

“I’m going to appeal it, based on: I saved a lot of money, I can still continue with my work, and they were wrong,” she said. “We’ll see what happens.”

More at: http://www.7dvt.com/2008vermont-yoga-teacher-tries-out-medical-tourism

To arrange your medical travel trip overseas for any medical , dental or cosmetic procedure , contact Healthbase. Healthbase is an award-winning medical tourism facilitator connecting patients to leading healthcare facilities worldwide . Cost of surgical care at Healthbase's partner hospitals is a fraction of the cost of similar care in the US for equal or superior outcomes.

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Dental Tourism: No need for dental insurance anymore

Brought to you by Healthbase http://www.healthbase.com/ info.hb@healthbase.com 1-888-MY1-HLTH



Healthbase, an award-winning Dental Tourism Facilitator, connects you to dental care facilities overseas where you can get top quality dental care for a fraction of the cost in the US. Waitlists like those in Canada and the UK are literally eliminated and access to world-class dental care is within reach. For e.g.: dental implants which cost over $4000 in the US can be had for as low as $650 in Mexico. Dental tourism is ideal for crowns, implants, implants-in-a-day, veneers, bridges, root canal, dental surgery and many other dental procedures. You will save so much that you can even enjoy a luxurious retreat at exotic destinations after your treatment.

Healthbase has partner dental care facilities located in Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Hungary, Belgium, Turkey, India, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, etc. Dental practitioners in these countries are educated or trained at top US/UK/Canadian universities and hospitals.

For more information about dental tourism or medical tourism and for a FREE quote for any dental procedure or medical procedure, log on to http://www.healthbase.com.

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How does the heart work?

Brought to you by Healthbase http://www.healthbase.com/ info.hb@healthbase.com 1-888-MY1-HLTH

The heart is a muscular organ a little larger than your fist weighing between 7 and 15 ounces (200 to 425 grams). It is responsible for pumping blood through the blood vessels by repeated, rhythmic contractions. The average heart beats 100,000 times per day pumping about 2,000 gallons (7,571 liters) of blood. The average human heart beating at 72 BPM (beats per minute), will beat approximately 2.5 billion times during a lifetime of 66 years.

The heart is usually situated in the middle of the thorax with the largest part of the heart slightly offset to the left underneath the breastbone or sternum and is surrounded by the lungs. The sac enclosing the heart is known as the pericardium.



The heart consists of the following parts:
Aorta: It is the largest artery and carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
Superior Vena Cava: Deoxygenated blood from the upper parts of the body returns to the heart through the superior vena cava.
Inferior Vena Cava: Deoxygenated blood from the lower parts of the body returns to the heart through the inferior vena cava.
Pulmonary Veins: They carry oxygenated blood from the lungs back to the heart.
Pulmonary Arteries: They carry blood from the heart to the lungs to pick up oxygen.
Right Atrium: It collects deoxygenated blood returning from the body (through the vena cavas) and then forces it into the right ventricle through the tricuspid valve.
Right Ventricle: It collects deoxygenated blood from the right atrium and then forces it into the lungs through the pulmonary valve.
Left Atrium: It collects oxygenated blood returning from the lungs and then forces it into the left ventricle through the mitral valve.
Left Ventricle: It is the largest and the strongest chamber in the heart. It pushes blood through the aortic valve and into the body.

THE FUNCTION
The right side of the heart collects de-oxygenated blood from the body into the right atrium and then via the right ventricle pumps it into the lungs so that carbon dioxide can be dropped off and oxygen picked up.

The left side of the heart collects oxygenated blood from the lungs into the left atrium. From the left atrium the blood moves to the left ventricle which pumps it out to supply oxygen to the body.

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Orthognathic surgery to treat bad bite and jaw deformities

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Orthognathic surgery is surgery to reposition the maxilla (upper jaw or jawbone), the mandible (the lower jaw or jawbone), and the dentoalveolar segments (teeth and their sockets) to achieve facial and occlusal balance. One or more segments of the jaw(s) can be simultaneously repositioned to treat various types of malocclusions (bad bite) and jaw deformities. It is also used in treatment of congenital conditions like cleft palate. Bones can be cut and re-aligned, held in place with either screws or plates and screws.



Orthognathic surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon almost always in collaboration with orthodontic treatment, often including braces before and after surgery, and retainers after the final removal of braces. Orthognathic surgery is often needed after reconstruction of cleft palate or other major craniofacial anomalies.

Unless medical conditions necessitate that the surgery be performed earlier, orthognathic surgery is often delayed until after all of the permanent teeth have erupted. To improve the aesthetic results, orthognathic surgery can be combined with soft tissue contouring in adult patients.

TYPES OF ORTHOGNATHIC PROCEDURES
•  Mandibular Sagittal Split Osteotomy
•  Maxillary osteotomy surgery or Le Fort Osteotomy (Le Fort I osteotomy, Le Fort II osteotomy and Le Fort III ostetomy)
•  Genioplasty (chin surgery)

DETAILS OF THE PROCEDURE
Usually surgery is performed under general anaesthetic and using nasal tube for intubation. The surgery might involve one jaw or both the jaws during the same procedure. The modification is done by making cuts in the bones of the mandible and / or maxilla and repositioning the cut pieces in the desired alignment. The surgeon is often able to go through the inside of the mouth without having to cut the skin.

Cutting the bone is called osteotomy and in case of performing the surgery on the two jaws at the same time it is called a bi-maxillary osteotomy (two jaws bone cutting) or a maxillomandibular advancement. The bone cutting is traditionally done using special electrical saws and burs, and manual chisels, and most recently by using ultra-sound waves (though not used on a wide scale). The maxilla can be adjusted using a " Lefort I" level osteotomy. Sometimes the midface can be mobilised as well by using a Lefort II, or Lefort III osteotomy. These techniques are utilized extensively for children suffering from certain craniofacial abnormalities such as Crouzon syndrome.

The jaws will be wired together (inter-maxillary fixation) using stainless steel wires during the surgery to insure the correct re-positioning of the bones. This in most cases is released before the patient wakes up after the surgery.

COST OF ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY
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Septoplasty: How to fix problems of a crooked nose

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The surgical procedure to treat problems associated with a crooked or deviated nose, such as chronic sinusitis, inflammation, bleeding, or sleep apnea, is termed septoplasty.

Septoplasty, submucous resection of the septum, or septal reconstruction is a corrective surgery to straighten or repair a deviated nasal septum - the wall between the two nasal passages. Usually the septum is straight and upright, and runs down the center of the nose. A deviated septum occurs when the cartilage or bone of the septum is not straight, thereby narrowing the cavity into which is deviates making breathing difficult. This condition can lead to snoring and sleep apnea, and in certain serious deviations may frequently lead to chronic sinus problems.

Septoplasty is necessary only when the problems associated with crooked nasal septum do not get better without surgery. The surgery may be done along with other procedures to treat chronic sinusitis, inflammation, or bleeding, or to correct sleep apnea. The procedure also may be done to allow access into the nose to remove nasal polyps.

DETAILS OF THE PROCEDURE
The procedure usually involves an excision or cutting of a portion of the cartilage and/or bone surplus. Under general or local anesthesia, the surgeon works through the nostrils, making an incision in the lining of the septum to reach the cartilage targeted in the operation. Often an "L" strut of cartilage in the dorsal and caudal areas (1cm width or more) is preserved for structural support. After excess cartilage and bone have been taken out, the septum may then be stabilized with small plastic tubes, splints, or sutures. The operation takes about 60-90 minutes.

AFTER THE SURGERY
Considerable swelling and bruising can be expected. The nasal cavities may or may not be packed, and a piece of gauze is taped underneath the nose to absorb blood. Postoperative care includes frequent changing of this gauze (roughly every hour or so) and after 1 to 2 days, the excess bleeding normally stops and the inner nasal packing may be removed. The following day, saline irrigations of the nasal cavities are often advised, and the patient may be allowed to gently blow their nose. After 1 to 2 weeks, patients are allowed to blow their nose normally. Patients typically regain about 80% of their energy one week after the surgery.


COST OF SEPTOPLASTY
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Healthbase is a medical tourism expert offering over 200 medical procedures and connecting patients to leading healthcare facilities worldwide for low cost high quality medical care. Healthbase also offers affordable medical tourism plans for self-insured businesses looking for affordable healthcare benefits for employees.


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Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty

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Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, UPPP or UP3 is the surgical removal of tissue in the throat to widen the airway. It is a surgical procedure to cure problems such as snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. The following tissues may be removed through uvulopalatopharyngoplasty:
•  The uvula (small fingerlike piece of tissue that hangs down from the back of the roof of the mouth into the throat)
•  The soft palate (part of the roof of the mouth )
•  The tonsils (any collection of lymphoid tissue)
•  The adenoids (a mass of lymphoid tissue situated at the very back of the nose), and
•  The pharynx (the part of the neck and throat situated immediately posterior to the mouth and nasal cavity).

Another procedure to treat snoring is laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty.

Cost of Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty
Snoring is not always considered a medical problem, so insurance may not cover treatment. For affordable uvulopalatopharyngoplasty or laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty surgery overseas, register to Healthbase at https://www.healthbase.com/hb/pages/registerOptions.jsp.


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007 top secrets of messing up your medical care overseas…

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Ever heard of botched cosmetic jobs in Brazil or crappy dental work in Mexico? Such situations are very real. Here are the 007 top secrets of messing up your medical care overseas.

Top Secret # 001: Not doing research
Don’t do any research and you will successfully fail in your quest for achieving safe and healthy medical treatment overseas. However, if you do want to go abroad and get quality health care while saving some bucks then consider doing thorough homework and collecting enough information. Some sources of information are: websites offering medical tourism services like Healthbase, news, blogs, articles, videos, testimonials, forums, etc. Satisfied medical tourists claim proper research to be a sure-fire way of happy and healthy medical tourism.

Top Secret # 002: Going abroad for a wrong procedure
Your ambulance will not drive you to India during an emergency (or even otherwise). Reasonably, only non-emergency treatments can be considered for medical tourism but not all such treatments fit the criterion as sometimes the travel costs can outweigh the possible savings achievable by going abroad.

Top Secret # 003: Choosing the wrong place
How about going to Thailand for your half-yearly dental cleaning? Superb idea? Not exactly. How about going there for dental implants? Maybe. And for full mouth restoration? Definitely. Choose a wrong place and you will waste your money on medical tourism instead of saving some. Wise medical tourists consider travel cost, lodging cost and number of visits required for full treatment when calculating potential savings.

Top Secret # 004: Choosing an unqualified doctor
Thanks to the power of the Internet, it’s very easy to choose a doctor qualified at accomplishing botched jobs. If you wish to not fall prey to them, better do your homework properly. Check your doctor’s credentials, ask people around and get recommendations from reliable sources to avoid scheduling an appointment with “Dr. Quack”.

Top Secret # 005: Not doing proper planning and preparation
Allowing time for surgery but not for recovery and recuperation? That will require you to modify your itinerary. As a medical tourist you should prepare yourself to stay longer/shorter than expected. If you have travel or tourism on mind, allow time for that as well. A word on arranging your essential documents: Put together your medical records and financial records, acquire passport and visa, and have the information of your important contacts handy. Also, book your travel tickets and hotel rooms well in advance.

Top Secret # 006: Working with a substandard medical tourism agency
There are new agencies cropping up each day. Some of them are there to genuinely help you while others are affiliated with “Dr. Quack”. A good medical tourism agency like Healthbase will have partners that are certified by international or domestic accrediting organizations. It will offer a variety of medical travel services, it will offer numerous medical procedures in many countries, it will have patient testimonials on its website, it will have been covered by media, and much more. Your research will help you identify the good ones.

Top Secret # 007: Failing to follow the right aftercare
Planning to play football the day after your total knee replacement surgery? Ouch, that will hurt! Physical therapy, rest, diet, medication, etc. are all as important as the surgery. Your local doctor might be able to help you with your aftercare so always keep him informed. You might also need his help, for example, for removing sutures or for taking X-Rays.

Remember to avoid the above 7 mistakes and your medical tourism or dental tourism abroad will be happy, healthy and successful.

You can learn more about how to plan an affordable medical trip and receive top quality medical care overseas at accredited international healthcare facilities by logging on to 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.

Register or login to get your FREE personalized quote for any medical procedure abroad at any of our partner international healthcare providers.

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Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm

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Aneurysms involving the ascending aorta, aortic arch and descending thoracic aorta are termed thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAA). Thoracic aneurysms most often occur in the descending thoracic aorta. Others may appear in the ascending aorta or the aortic arch. The most common cause of a thoracic aortic aneyrysm is hardening of the arteries.

Most thoracic aneurysms are asymtomatic. Most patients have no symptoms until the aneurysm begins to leak or expand. Most non-leaking thoracic aortic aneurysms are detected by tests - usually a chest x-ray or a chest CT scan - run for other unrelated reasons. Chest or back pain may mean sudden widening or leakage of the aneurysm.

THORACIC AORTIC ANEURYSM TREATMENT
Once a TAA is diagnosed, routine, scheduled follow-up is necessary by an aortic specialist. Aneurysm size needs to be followed closely and surgery is warranted if there is rapid growth over a short period of time or if a critical size is reached. High death rate is associated with the rupture of a thoracic aortic aneurysm. Also, surgical repair of a ruptured thoracic aneurysm carries a 25-50% mortality as opposed to a 5-8% mortality when such aneurysms are treated electively.

The treatment of thoracic aortic aneurysm depends on the location of the aneurysm.

Surgery to repair an ascending aortic or arch aneurysm is indicated for patients with aneurysm larger than 5-6 centimeters. The surgery involves removing the aneurysmal portion of the aorta and replacing it with a fabric substitute. If the aortic arch is involved, a specialized technique called "circulatory arrest" - a period without blood circulation while on life support - may be necessary.

There are two options for patients with aneurysms of the descending thoracic aorta. If the aneurysm is larger than 6 centimeters, major surgery is done to replace the aorta with a fabric substitute. The other option is endovascular stenting, which is a less invasive option. A stent is a tiny metal or plastic tube that is used to hold an artery open. Stents can be placed into the body without cutting the chest. Instead, tiny, hollow tubes called catheters are inserted into the groin area. The stent is passed through the catheter and into the area of the aneurysm. Not all patients with descending thoracic aneurysms are candidates for stenting.

THORACIC AORTIC ANEURYSM COST AND AVAILABILITY
In the US, thoracic aortic aneurysm repair surgery can be very costly. If you are uninsured or underinsured then this could translate into a substantial out-of-pocket expense for your cardiac treatment.

Healthbase is a medical tourism expert. Healthbase offers a large network of international hospitals which offer the best thoracic aortic aneurysm repair surgery overseas at an affordable price.

Register or login to get your FREE personalized quote for a cheap thoracic aortic aneurysm repair surgery abroad.

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Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

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Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a localized dilatation of the abdominal aorta, that exceeds the normal diameter by more than 50%. The normal diameter of the infrarenal aorta is 2 cm. The aneurysm can extend to include one or both of the iliac arteries. AAA is caused by a degenerative process of the aortic wall.

Possible symptoms os AAA include low back pain, flank pain, abdominal pain, groin pain or pulsating abdominal mass. However, as most of the AAAs are asymptomatic, their presence is usually revealed during an abdominal examination for another reason - the most common being abdominal ultrasonography. It is recommended that men aged 65 to 75 years who have ever smoked have one-time screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm by ultrasonography. A physician may also detect the presence of an AAA by abdominal palpation.

ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM TREATMENT
An aneurysm is usually considered to be present if the measured outer aortic diameter is over 3 cm (normal diameter of aorta is around 2 cm). For aneurysms under 5 cm, the risk of rupture is low, so surgery is not recommended. Such aneurysms are therefore usually kept under surveillance until such time as they become large enough to warrant repair, or develop symptoms.

Surgery is considered for aneurysms larger than 5 cm.

AAA can be repaired in two ways:
- Open aneurysm repair (OR): Open repair (operation) is indicated in young patients as an elective procedure, or in growing or large, symptomatic or ruptured aneurysms.
- Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR): It is generally indicated in older, high-risk patients or patients unfit for open repair. However, endovascular repair is feasible for only a proportion of AAA's, depending on the morphology of the aneurysm. The main advantage over open repair is that the peri-operative period has less impact on the patient i.e. less time in intensive care, less time in hospital overall, earlier return to normal activity.

ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM COST AND AVAILABILITY
In the US, abdominal aortic aneurysm repair surgery can be very costly. If you are uninsured or underinsured then this could translate into a substantial out-of-pocket expense for your cardiac treatment.

Healthbase is a medical tourism expert. Healthbase offers a large network of international hospitals which offer the best thoracic aortic aneurysm repair surgery overseas at an affordable price.

Register or login to get your FREE personalized quote for a cheap thoracic aortic aneurysm repair surgery abroad.

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MIS 2-Incision Hip Replacement

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Zimmer MIS 2-Incision Hip Replacement is a minimally invasive alternative to the traditional hip replacement surgery. The minimally invasive surgery is done by making two small incisions about 1½ to 2 inches each to separate the muscles and tendons to access the hip joint as opposed to the traditional hip replacement surgery which typically involves a 10- to 12-inch incision and cutting of those tissues. For the MIS 2-Incision surgery, orthopedic surgeons trained in minimally invasive surgical techniques use specialized instruments to perform the surgery.

The MIS 2-Incision Hip Replacement technique considerably reduces the recovery time as muscles and tendons around the hip joint are not generally cut as they are in the traditional hip replacement surgery. So there is less tissue trauma involved in this minimally invasive approach resulting in faster and less painful rehabilitation of the patient which in turn results in quicker return to work and daily activities. Also, because smaller incisions are made, the surgery leaves smaller scars. Other benefits of this surgery are shorter hosptial stay and reduced blood loss compared to traditional hip replacement surgery.

Performance-wise, the hip replaced through MIS 2-Incision Hip Replacement performs the same as that through the traditinal approach. Also, the replacement hip - comprised of a stem, ball and socket - is the same high quality, clinically proven prosthesis that is used in traditional surgery.

Anybody who is a right candidate for traditional hip replacement surgery is also a right candidate for MIS 2-Incision Hip Replacement except those who are extremely overweight, are very muscular, have recently had a blood clot or an unstable medication that places them at higher risk for complications, or those who have already had hip replacement surgery on the same hip.

Read here for information about a more bone-conserving approach to hip replacement called Birmingham hip resurfacing surgery or BHR.

Cost and Availability of MIS 2-Incision Hip Replacement
In the US, MIS 2-Incision Hip Replacement surgery can be very costly. If you are uninsured or underinsured then this could translate into a substantial out-of-pocket expense for your orthopedic treatment.

Healthbase offers a large network of international partner hospitals which offer the best MIS 2-Incision Hip Replacement surgery overseas at an affordable price.

Register or login to get your FREE personalized quote for a cheap Hip Replacement surgery abroad (MIS 2-Incision hip replacement surgery or traditional hip replacement surgery).

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Dental Surgery

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Dental surgery is any of a number of medical procedures which involve artificially modifying the development or arrangement of teeth in the mouth.

Dental surgery falls into 4 major categories:
1. Endodontics: It deals with the tooth pulp and the tissues surrounding the root of a tooth. The pulp (containing nerves, arterioles and venules as well as lymphatic tissue and fibrous tissue) can become diseased or injured, and is often unable to repair itself; if it dies, endodontic treatment is required.

2. Prosthodontics: It is the specialty of implant, esthetic and reconstructive dentistry. It involves the restoration of oral function through prostheses and restorations (i.e. complete dentures, crowns, implant retained/supported restorations). Cosmetic dentistry, implants and joint problems all fall under the field of prosthodontics.

3. Orthodontics: It is a specialty of dentistry that is concerned with the study and treatment of malocclusions (improper bites), which may be a result of tooth irregularity, disproportionate jaw relationships, or both. Orthodontic treatment can focus on dental displacement only, or can deal with the control and modification of facial growth. Orthodontic treatment can be carried out for purely aesthetic reasons - improving the general appearance of patients' teeth and face for cosmetic reasons - but treatment is often prescribed for practical reasons, providing the patient with a functionally improved bite (occlusion).

4. Periodontics: It is branch of dentistry which studies supporting structures of teeth (supporting tissues are known as periodontium) and diseases and conditions that affect them. It involves treating diseases and conditions of the periodontium. Periodontists specialize in the management of patients with periodontitis, gum recession and surgical placement of implants.

For affordable dental surgery overseas, please contact Healthbase. Healthbase is a dental tourism expert and medical tourism expert connecting patients to leading dental offices worldwide and leading healthcare facilities worldwide. Healthbase also offers dental tourism plans and medical tourism plans for self-insured businesses looking for affordable dental care benefits and affordable healthcare benefits for employees.

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What is Cancer?

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Cancer, which causes about 13% of all deaths worldwide, is a group of diseases in which cells are:
1. aggressive - grow and divide without respect to normal limits,
2. invasive - invade and destroy adjacent tissues, and
3. sometimes metastatic - spread to other locations in the body.
These three malignant properties of cancers differentiate them from benign tumors, which are self-limited in their growth and do not invade or metastasize (although some benign tumor types are capable of becoming malignant).

CAUSES OF CANCER

Cancer may be caused by:

- Chemical carcinogens such as tobacco smoke and alcohol
- Ionizing radiation such as radon gas and UV rays from the sun
- Ifectious diseases associated with viruses like human papillomavirus, hepatitis B and hepatitis C virus, Epstein-Barr virus, and human T-lymphotropic virus
- Hormonal imbalances
- Immune system dysfunction like HIV
- Heredity

Other cancer-promoting genetic abnormalities may be randomly acquired through errors in DNA replication, or are inherited, and thus present in all cells from birth. Complex interactions between carcinogens and the host genome may explain why only some develop cancer after exposure to a known carcinogen. New aspects of the genetics of cancer pathogenesis, such as DNA methylation, and microRNAs are increasingly being recognized as important.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Roughly, cancer symptoms can be divided into three groups:
- Local symptoms: unusual lumps or swelling (tumor), hemorrhage (bleeding), pain and/or ulceration. Compression of surrounding tissues may cause symptoms such as jaundice.
- Symptoms of metastasis (spreading): enlarged lymph nodes, cough and hemoptysis, hepatomegaly (enlarged liver), bone pain, fracture of affected bones and neurological symptoms. Although advanced cancer may cause pain, it is often not the first symptom.
- Systemic symptoms: weight loss, poor appetite and cachexia (wasting), excessive sweating (night sweats), anemia and specific paraneoplastic phenomena, i.e. specific conditions that are due to an active cancer, such as thrombosis or hormonal changes.

Every symptom in the above list can be caused by a variety of conditions (a list of which is referred to as the differential diagnosis). Cancer may be a common or uncommon cause of each item.

TREATMENT

Once diagnosed, cancer is usually treated with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. As research develops, treatments are becoming more specific for different varieties of cancer. There has been significant progress in the development of targeted therapy drugs that act specifically on detectable molecular abnormalities in certain tumors, and which minimize damage to normal cells. Cancer may be treated by:

- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapies
- Immunotherapy
- Hormonal therapy
- Symptom control

PROGNOSIS
Cancer has a reputation for being a deadly disease. While this certainly applies to certain particular types, this is increasingly being overturned by advances in medical care. Some types of cancer have a prognosis that is substantially better than nonmalignant diseases such as heart failure and stroke.

Cancer patients, for the first time in the history of oncology, are visibly returning to the athletic arena and workplace. Patients are living longer with either quiescent persistent disease or even complete, durable remissions.

For affordable cancer treatment overseas, please contact Healthbase. Healthbase is a medical tourism expert connecting patients to leading healthcare facilities worldwide. Healthbase also offers medical tourism plans for self-insured businesses looking for affordable healthcare benefits for employees.

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In vitro fertilization

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Fertility is the natural capability of giving life. As a measure, "Fertility Rate" is the number of children born per couple, person or population. Infertility is a deficient fertility.

Both women and men have hormonal cycles which determine both when a woman can achieve pregnancy and when a man is most fertile.

Women's fertility peaks around the age of 23-24, and often deteriorates after 30. With a rise in women postponing pregnancy, this can create an infertility problem.

In vitro fertilization
The term in vitro is used to refer to any biological procedure that is performed outside the organism it would normally be occurring in.

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a technique in which egg cells are fertilised by sperm outside the woman's womb, in vitro. IVF is a major treatment in infertility when other methods of assisted reproductive technology have failed. The process involves hormonally controlling the ovulatory process, removing ova (eggs) from the woman's ovaries and letting sperm fertilise them in a fluid medium. The fertilised egg (zygote) is then transferred to the patient's uterus with the intent to establish a successful pregnancy. Babies conceived as a result of IVF are also known as test tube babies.

For IVF to be successful, it requires healthy ova, sperm that can fertilise, and a uterus that can maintain a pregnancy. Cost considerations generally place IVF as a treatment when other less expensive options have failed.

Success rates
While the overall live birth rate via IVF in the U.S. is about 27% per cycle (33% pregnancy rate), the chances of a successful pregnancy via IVF vary widely based on the age of the woman (or, more precisely, on the age of the eggs involved). Where the woman's own eggs are used as opposed to those of a donor, for women under 35, the pregnancy rate is commonly approximately 43% per cycle (36.5% live birth), while for women over 40, the rate falls drastically - to only 4% for women over 42.

Complications
The major complication of IVF is the risk of multiple births. This is directly related to the practice of transferring multiple embryos at embryo transfer. Multiple births are related to increased risk of pregnancy loss, obstetrical complications, prematurity, and neonatal morbidity with the potential for long term damage.

For affordable IVF treatment overseas, please contact Healthbase. Healthbase is a medical tourism expert connecting patients to leading healthcare facilities worldwide. Healthbase also offers medical tourism plans for self-insured businesses looking for affordable healthcare benefits for employees.

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Medical Tourism and JCI Hospitals

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With the growth in the number of medical tourism providers quality standards become all the more important. To demonstrate their commitment towards quality some international health care organizations choose to be accredited by the US-based Joint Commission Internationa (JCI). JCI accreditation has gained worldwide attention as an effective quality evaluation and management tool. A JCI hospital is an international hospital outside of the United States which has been accredited by the Joint Commission International. There are over 120 JCI hospitals worldwide and many more are in the process of receiving accreditation.

The JCI accreditation program was launched by the Joint Commission in 1999 in response to the growing interest in accreditation and quality improvement worldwide. Accreditation is usually voluntary. The health care organization interested in a JCI accreditation has to meet a set of standards requirements designed to improve quality of care. JCI accreditation standards are usually regarded as optimal and achievable. Accreditation provides a visible commitment by an organization to improve the quality of patient care, to ensure a safe environment and to continually work to reduce risks to patients and staff.

JCI makes sure accredited hospitals have state-of-the-art health care facilities and technology along with advanced transportation and communication systems. JCI accredited hospitals' health care standards, professionalism and quality of their doctors are equivalent if not superior to those you find in the United States of America.

JCI ensure the quality of hospitals in its network using the following criteria:
• Coverage From Patient Entry to Discharge
• Assessment for All Aspects of Management
• Culture of Patient Safety
• Access to and continuity of care
• Assessment and care processes
• Education and rights of individuals
• Management of information and human resources
• Quality leadership
• Infection control
• Collaborative integrated
• Facility Management

The above is a partial list of assessment criteria. For details, refer to Medical Tourism FAQ.

For affordable overseas medical treatment at a JCI hospital, please contact Healthbase. Healthbase is a medical tourism expert connecting patients to leading healthcare facilities worldwide.

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Medical Tourism to Canada

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According to an article (Canada a mecca for medical tourism?) published in TheStar.com on October 13, 2007, Canada has the potential to become the next medical tourism destination.

Eliminating wait times in Canada's health care system would allow this country to become a mecca for medical "tourists," the president of the Canadian Medical Association said yesterday.

"Consider that the biggest consumers in the $40 billion medical tourism business are Americans," Day told a meeting of the Empire Club in Toronto, referring to people who travel out of their country to seek specialized medical care.

"This is a potentially massive new industry for Canada (but) a prerequisite is the elimination of our wait times."

Day said Americans travel to far-flung places like India, Thailand and Russia for more novel or cheaper medical procedures than they can obtain in their own country.

"By changing our focus we, too, could soon tap into that market and reap the rewards for our public system," he said.

"Since Canada has virtually no non-government hospital infrastructure, the potential income from medical tourism will benefit public hospitals and unionized hospital workers. Naysayer union leaders need to reflect on this matter."

More at TheStar.com...

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Medical Outsourcing

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Dictionary.com defines outsourcing as “a practice used by different companies to reduce costs by transferring portions of work to outside suppliers rather than completing it internally”. The term which has been generally associated with the automobile industry was popularized during the past decade by the computer or IT industry. But when it is the health industry in question, how does outsourcing work there? What is outsourced and how?

If you are thinking it’s the drug manufacturing that is outsourced, you are wrong. Nor is it the bookkeeping that is outsourced. What is outsourced is the patient himself or rather he chooses to have his treatment done offshore. The driving cause is the high cost of health care in his home country. Or in certain other cases, the long waits before he can get the needed treatment.

So, medical outsourcing or offshore medical which is also commonly known as medical tourism is the practice of seeking health care abroad. But, who provides these outsourcing services?

There are lots of offshore health care providers in the form of hospitals and clinics participating in this business. Some of them can be found on the other side of the border while others may be a few oceans across. Examples include those in India, Singapore, Thailand, Mexico, Turkey, Panama, Costa Rica, Brazil, Argentina, Belgium, and so on. Some of them give excellent service – even superior to what you can get at home using the latest technology and by world-renowned surgeons – while others may not be as great. To show their commitment towards top quality, many providers also have international accreditations like JCI, JACHO, ISO, etc. Some have strategic alliances with well-known US health care providers like Cleveland Clinic, Harvard Medical International and Johns Hopkins.

International health care providers are able to provide you with high quality treatment at an affordable cost mainly because of low labor cost, low administrative cost, low malpractice cost and low living cost in their country. That’s the same reason why IT companies started outsourcing.

Now the obvious question arises – how do you find the right provider for your needs? The answer is do research. There are lots of resources available – news, articles, blogs, forums, testimonials, etc. Many people find it useful to work with a health tourism facilitator or medical tourism facilitator like Healthbase (http://www.healthbase.com). They are specialized facilitators who carefully screen and partner with international healthcare providers that meet up to the high standards of patients from the US, the UK, Canada, etc. They also help patients with all the logistics involved in getting a surgery abroad.

There are a few other things that you will need to do for a successful experience in getting your surgery overseas. Getting into the details of all of them is beyond the scope of this article. Here are some of them: doing a thorough research on the surgery in question to establish your suitability for it as well as for medical tourism, getting to learn about your medical travel destination, arranging all your medical records and sending them to the international hospital, securing passport and visa, booking tickets, and more. You may want to start here: http://www.healthbase.com/resources/medical-tourism/medical-tourism-information.

Earlier, people would go abroad mostly for elective cosmetic procedures which were not covered by insurances. Today, people outsource their orthopedic procedures as well as cardiac surgeries as well as organ transplants. It’s not just individuals who are interested in this trend to save money. Medical outsourcing has also received attention from health insurance companies who have started offering overseas treatment plans to expand their customer base, and from employers who have included it as a benefit to their employees.

At the time of writing this article, neither Merriam Webster nor Dictionary.com had an entry for “medical outsourcing”. But given the speed with which the trend is spreading, pretty soon they will have to update their dictionaries.

You can learn more about medical outsourcing, the details of the process, international healthcare providers and arrange your surgery by logging on to 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.

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Surgical Tourism

Brought to you by Healthbase http://www.healthbase.com/ info.hb@healthbase.com 1-888-MY1-HLTH

Surgery isn’t the first or even the last thing that comes to mind when you think tourism and vice versa. As misnomered as it may sound, but surgical tourism is what is happening in the health care industry today. Surgical tourism, also known as medical tourism, medical travel, health travel and health tourism , is traveling abroad for surgery.

 

So why would someone choose to go overseas for surgery?

The number one reason is because they can get huge discounts when compared to the price tags on surgeries at home. Surgical tourists claim to have saved from 50% to over 90%. Another reason revolves around the long wait-lists in countries like Canada and UK with public health care system. Some go for elective surgeries not covered by insurance.

 

Does low cost mean poor quality?

Check out pictures of some of the international hospitals catering to foreign patients at https://www.healthbase.com/hb/pages/hospitals_pl.jsp and you will notice how immaculate their 5-star hotel type facilities are. Their accreditations include those like JCI, JCAHO and ISO. Patients vouch for the personalized service they get. It’s not uncommon to see world-renowned surgeons at these international hospitals playing finger-magic behind the latest billion-dollar robotic machines.

 

Exactly how is such a miracle possible?

Well, that’s because in some countries like India, Thailand, Singapore, Turkey, Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama and others, the cost of labor when compared to the US, UK or Canada is lower. Plus, administrative costs and malpractice costs are also lower. These are the countries that are hot surgical tourism destinations.

 

Some of the surgeries that patients go overseas for…

Range from breast augmentation to Birmingham hip resurfacing surgery , and from lap band to triple cardiac bypass surgery. And it’s not just surgeries that people seek. Some go for therapeutic treatments and others for cancer treatments. Restorative and reparative treatments like LASIK are common and so are preventive check-ups and simple dental fix-ups .

 

Where is tourism in the picture?

While the primary motivation for most surgical tourists is affordable surgery, the opportunity to visit exotic destinations is an additional draw for some. You can plan to have a holiday during your visit to the foreign country before the surgery if your health permits or after the surgery if your surgeon permits.

 

How do I go about arranging my surgery abroad?

Getting surgery overseas is not even closely related to getting surgery at your local hospital but it can save you a ton of money. However, it involves careful research and planning. Begin by collecting more information about the trend of surgical tourism. You may start here: http://www.healthbase.com/resources/medical-tourism/medical-tourism-information . Read what others are saying about it. Educate yourself about the surgery desired. Do your due diligence in researching the various international hospitals and surgeons at the surgical destination you are interested in. Compare quotes from various providers and finalize one.

Many people find it useful to work with a surgical tourism provider that helps them with all the logistics of surgical tourism. Surgical tourism providers like Healthbase (http://www.healthbase.com) connect you with the hospital of your choice while providing many other related valuable services like detailed information about various procedures, detailed hospital profiles and surgeon profiles, medical records transfer, free surgery quote, pre- and post-consultation with the overseas hospital, feedback and testimonials from previous patients, medical and dental loan financing, passport and visa, airport pick-up and drop-off, hospital escort, tickets, travel insurance, hotel booking, tourism services in the destination country, etc.

You can learn more about the growing trend of medical tourism, international healthcare facilities and surgeons, and the details of the medical tourism process by logging on to 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.

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Step-by-Step Medical Tourism Guide

Brought to you by Healthbase http://www.healthbase.com/ info.hb@healthbase.com 1-888-MY1-HLTH

Going overseas for surgical treatment can be overwhelming for anybody. After all, it’s not like going to a hospital down the road where you have been to before and know all the doctors and nurses. To be successful in your pursuit of low cost high quality medical treatment , there is a step by step process that you must follow to gain confidence in your decision, get the right care and save money.

 

STEP 1: FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THE TREND OF MEDICAL TOURISM

Find out why everybody is raving about it and why they are willing to travel half the world for it. Learn from the experience of others . Read news , blogs and articles on the subject. Check out the frequently asked questions that medical tourists have at https://www.healthbase.com/hb/pages/medical-tourism-faq.jsp.

 

STEP 2: RESEARCH ON THE MEDICAL PROCEDURE

Find out all you can about the medical procedure in question – problems it solves, follow-up care needed, physical therapy required, etc. This will help you clear 3 doubts: is the procedure right for your condition; are you the right candidate for the procedure; and should you go abroad for it.

 

STEP 3: FIND OUT IF MEDICAL TOURISM IS WHAT YOU WANT

Medical tourism is not always a good choice for non-emergency medical treatments. Sometimes transportation costs may outweigh the possible savings achievable by going abroad. In some cases, the time required for the surgery abroad may be too much for you to spare. Or, the surgery you need may not be available abroad with a reputable health care provider.

 

STEP 4: LEARN ABOUT MEDICAL TOURISM DESTINATIONS

Some countries have the reputation for top-quality cardiac surgery while others for world-class orthopedics and yet others for cosmetic procedures. So make your selection wisely. Sometimes distance can also play an important role in your decision-making, like in the case of small dental jobs. You should also prepare yourself for culture differences.

 

STEP 5: LEARN ABOUT INTERNATIONAL FACILITIES AND SURGEONS

When researching on any health care provider try to find answers to the following:

Does the hospital or clinic employ the latest equipments and technology? Do they have expertise in the medical procedure you are seeking? What accreditations and awards do they have? Are the surgeons qualified enough? Where did they receive their education and training?

Answering these questions will give you a fair idea of the standard of quality of the provider.

 

STEP 6: ARRANGE ALL YOUR MEDICAL RECORDS

You will need them at the time of pre-consultation with your overseas surgeon as well as when you go abroad for surgery. Depending upon the condition you are treating, medical records you may need are: X-Rays, X-Ray reports, MRI's, health histories, photographs, immunization record, prescriptions, etc..

 

STEP 7: REQUEST AND COMPARE QUOTES

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 just on low cost but also on quality as well as distance.

 

STEP 8: CHECK WITH YOUR INSURANCE FOR COVERAGE

With the numerous benefits that medical tourism offers, today some insurance companies have medical tourism plans. So, if you are covered under an overseas medical treatment plan, your insurer might cover your medical tourism expenses in full or in part. So check with your health insurance company for coverage details.

 

STEP 9: ACQUIRE YOUR PASSPORT AND VISA

If you and/or your travel companion (if any) do not have a passport, you will need to acquire it. Some countries may require you to have a visa for entry. Check visa requirements and apply for it.

 

STEP 10: PLAN YOUR ITINERARY

When planning your itinerary, allow ample time for recovery. Be prepared to stay longer/shorter than expected. If you have travel or tourism on mind, allow time for that as well.

 

STEP 11: BOOK TICKETS AND ROOMS

Book tickets for yourself and your companion. After your surgery, you can choose to relax at a resort or in a hotel or go traveling in the foreign country. So if possible, make arrangements beforehand.

 

STEP 12: APPLY FOR TRAVEL INSURANCE PLAN

Consider purchasing one of the short-term health and emergency assistance policies designed for travelers. Travel insurance gives medical tourists coverage for unforeseen problems, from a canceled flight to a serious illness.

 

STEP 13: APPLY FOR MEDICAL FINANCE LOAN

If you do not have enough money for your medical treatment overseas, you may consider applying for medical loan or dental loan. Loan processing companies provide patient payment plans for plastic surgery, dental procedures, bariatric procedures, dermatology treatments, hospital, etc.

 

STEP 14: PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR RECOVERY

In certain cases, you may need to prepare your home for recovery. For example, if you are seeking affordable hip resurfacing surgery abroad , you may want to rearrange furniture in your house in advance before you leave to aid during the recovery stages.

 

STEP 15: PACK YOUR BAGS AND TAKE THE TRIP

Ensure that you have packed comfortable clothing. Bring some local currency, travelers checks, and one or two major credit cards. Keep important contact information handy. Bring all the required medical records. Remember to carry all your medical reports as well as any medicines in your carry-on luggage. Finally, take your well-planned medical trip and return home happy and healthy!

 

The above step by step medical tourism guide will help you with most aspects of medical tourism. To make your medical travel easy you may want to use a medical tourism provider to help you with all the logistics of medical tourism. Medical tourism providers like Healthbase (http://www.healthbase.com ) connect you with the hospital of your choice while providing many other related valuable services.

 

You can learn more about the growing trend of medical tourism, international healthcare facilities and surgeons , and the details of the medical tourism process by logging on to 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.

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Top 10 Reasons Why Medical Tourism is Popular

By Mumtaz Pachisa
Brought to you by Healthbase http://www.healthbase.com/ info.hb@healthbase.com 1-888-MY1-HLTH

Medical Tourism dates back to the times when wealthy Europeans and Asians would travel within their continent or to other continents to seek health related treatments. But, of late, the trend has been popularized by Americans, Canadians, British and others who travel to far-off countries in search for low-cost high quality health care or for care that’s not readily available in their country.

Following are the top 10 reasons why people travel to far-flung developing countries for medical care:

1. Incredible Savings
The top on the list is savings. Depending upon your destination country and the cost of the procedure back home, expect to save at least 50%.
For example: A cardiac bypass surgery is estimated at well over $100,000 in the US. But in India, at a 5-star type hospital, you can have the same surgery for only about $10,000. That's 90% savings even after you have paid for your travel, accommodation and vacation for yourself and a companion.

2. No Wait-Lists
Access to immediate service is what attracts those from countries that have public health care system towards medical tourism . A case at hand is that of a Canadian who suffered from chronic back pain for 16 years and was given medication to deal with it for all those years. Tired of the system and of the worsening pain, she went to India to get her spinal surgery. She now tells everyone how she got her life back by going to India .

3. Excellent Quality
To demonstrate their commitment to quality many international providers choose to be accredited by organizations such as JCI, JCAHO and ISO or by their local accrediting organizations. Read testimonials by medical tourists who vouch for the high quality treatment they have received overseas.

4. World-Class Facilities
International providers offer luxurious accommodation, private spacious rooms, and access to hospitality services 24 x 7. The facilities are immaculate and there are no infections that we so often hear about being present in UK hospitals.

5. Access to Latest Technology
The technology and equipments used by them are the latest and the greatest. It’s not uncommon to see surgeons working with billion dollar robotic machines in operating rooms.

6. Surgeon Expertise
Most surgeons catering to international patients have either been educated or have received professional training at top schools in the US, UK or in other countries in Europe. They have colleagues in the US, UK and elsewhere, so it should not come as a surprise if they know your local surgeon at home.

7. Personalized Service
Most medical traveleres vouch for the genuine and excellent service that they receive from surgeons, nurses and other medical staff alike. The staff to patient ratio is low making high level of personal care possible.

8. Longer Hospital Stay
One of the advantages of medical travel is you get to stay in the hospital for long without incurring hefty room charges. You can have a longer hospital stay than possible in your local hospital back home under the supervision of your surgeon and physical therapist.

9. Great Convenience
Given the ease of international travel combined with low airfares, your life-changing surgery is just a flight away. Another convenience that you get is not having to leave the comforts of your home until the surgery is due. You can research all you want on the Internet about hospitals and surgeons, share your medical records online with them, book and plan your itinerary on the web, etc.

10. Travel Opportunities
While the primary motivation for most customers is affordable surgery the opportunity to visit exotic destinations is an additional draw for some. You can choose to have a relaxing recovery in a resort setting or if your surgeon allows you can even enjoy outdoor tourist attractions.

You can learn more about the growing trend of medical tourism , international healthcare facilities and surgeons and the details of the medical tourism process by logging on to 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.

By Mumtaz Pachisa [media.hb (@) healthbase.com]

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Medical Tourism Guide

Brought to you by Healthbase http://www.healthbase.com/ info.hb@healthbase.com 1-888-MY1-HLTH

Today, cheap yet world-class surgeries are just a flight away. But the deluge of information available out there can overwhelm anybody. So, here is a quick guide to medical tourism to answer most of your questions about the phenomenon.

WHAT IS MEDICAL TOURISM?
Medical tourism is the process of traveling abroad to receive superior medical, dental and cosmetic care by highly skilled surgeons at some of the most modern and state-of-the-art medical facilities in the world...all at a fraction of the price in the US, UK and Canada.

MEDICAL TOURISM OFFERINGS
1. Incredible Savings: Compare a $7,000 hip resurfacing in India with a $48,000 one in the US. In general you are able to save 50% to 90%.
2. Excellent Quality: Many international providers are accredited by JCI, JCAHO and ISO or by local accrediting organizations. They have world-class facilities, have access to the latest technology and provide personalized service. If in doubt, read testimonials by patients who have experienced treatment overseas.
3. Surgeon Expertise: Most surgeons catering to international patients have either been educated or have received professional training at top schools in the US, UK or in other countries in Europe.
4. No Wait-Lists: Access to immediate service is what attracts those from countries that have public health care system towards medical tourism.
5. Longer Hospital Stay: You can have a longer hospital stay than possible in your local hospital back home under the supervision of your surgeon and physical therapist.
6. Travel Opportunities: While the primary motivation for most customers is affordable surgery, the opportunity to visit exotic destinations is an additional draw for some.

WHO SHOULD BE INTERESTED IN MEDICAL TOURISM?
In general, most medical tourists are either uninsured, underinsured or those seeking elective surgeries. Others resort to medical tourism due to the long wait-lists or unavailability of certain procedures in their country.

WHICH COUNTRIES OFFER THE BEST SERVICES?
The most popular medical travel destinations are India, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Turkey, Mexico, Panama, Costa Rica, Brazil, Belgium, and Argentina amongst others. Some of these countries are considered best for cardiac surgery, others for orthopedic surgery and yet others for plastic surgery. You should base your selection on: quality, distance and cost.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PROVIDER
When choosing a provider, don't get swayed by attractive packages and fancy websites. Read and watch what others are saying about the particular hospital, clinic or surgeon. Check out the facility pictures and videos. Consider the provider’s accreditation, awards and recognitions, facility and equipments, statistics like success rates, etc.

WILL MY HEALTH INSURANCE PAY FOR IT?
Insurance companies are keenly looking into medical tourism as an option though most haven't adopted it into their plans yet. So check with your health insurer for details.

SHOULD I COMBINE “SUN, SAND, AND SEA” WITH SURGERY?
That depends.
Usually after a cosmetic surgery, you are advised not to expose your body to the sun or to sea water. But, you can always choose to enjoy them before your surgery.
With certain other medical procedures, it's best for you to stay indoors and relax after your surgery.
In any case, you should always consult your surgeon if you have travel or tourism on your mind.

WHAT ARE MEDICAL TOURISM FACILITATORS?
Medical tourism facilitators like Healthbase are specialized facilitators that connect you with the hospital of your choice while providing all or some other valuable services like detailed information about various procedures, detailed hospital profiles and surgeon profiles, medical records transfer, free surgery quote, pre- and post-consultation with the overseas hospital, feedback and testimonials from previous patients, medical and dental loan financing, passport and visa, airport pick-up and drop-off, hospital escort, tickets, travel insurance, hotel booking, tourism services in the destination country, etc.

This medical tourism guide is just a starting step. You should do the proper required research before you fly to your medical tourism destination.

You can learn more about the growing trend of medical tourism, international healthcare facilities and surgeons and the details of the medical tourism process by logging on to 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.

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Medical Tourism Tips: What a Medical Tourist Should Know and Do

Brought to you by Healthbase http://www.healthbase.com/ info.hb@healthbase.com 1-888-MY1-HLTH

It's easy to hop on a plane and catch the next flight to your surgical destination. But before you do so, there are a number of things you should know and do to make your medical tourism trip safe and successful. Here is a list that will assist you in planning...

DO PROPER RESEARCH
Research is the first step to successful medical travel. Make sure that you do your research on the following:

1. The procedure: Find out about the procedure and compare your expectations with what’s achievable by the surgery. Also inquire about follow-up care needed, time required for recovery, physical therapy, etc.
2. The hospital: When selecting the international hospital that's right for your needs, you should consider the hospital’s accreditation, awards and recognitions, facility and equipments, statistics like success rates, etc.
3. The surgeon: Check the certifications, training and repute of the surgeon who will be treating you.
4. The destination country: You should base your country selection on: quality, distance and cost.

KEEP YOUR LOCAL DOCTOR INFORMED
Always work with your local doctor and inform him about your decision to travel overseas for treatment. You may need his assistance prior to the surgery for furnishing the health records required by the international hospital and post surgery for any follow-up checks that may be required.

HAVE ALL YOUR IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS IN ORDER
Bring the following documents with you. For each document, make copies and leave one set of copies at a safe place at home.
1. Medical records: Medical records like X-Rays, MRI's, health histories, photographs, immunization records, prescriptions, and any other health records relevant to the surgery. Remember to carry all these medical reports and any medicines in your carry-on luggage.
2. Passport and visa: You will need a passport for yourself and your travel companion (if any). Depending upon the country you are traveling to, you may or may not need a visa. Check with the destination country's embassy for the same.
3. Credit cards, debit cards and travelers checks: Bring some local currency, travelers checks and one or two major credit cards and debit cards.
4. Driver's license: Carry your driver's license and make sure it will remain valid while you're traveling.

KEEP IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION HANDY
Keep the following contact information handy:
1. Emergency contacts like relatives and friends
2. Destination embassy
3. Hospital
4. Hotel
5. Local surgeon / doctor
6. Employer

BE PREPARED TO STAY LONGER/SHORTER THAN EXPECTED
You should allow ample time for recovery after your surgery before you travel back home. So be prepared to stay longer as advised by your doctor. In some other cases you may not need to stay for as long as was expected.

WORK WITH A MEDICAL TOURISM COMPANY
Last but not the least, work with a medical tourism provider like Healthbase. They are specialized facilitators that connect you with the hospital of your choice while providing all or some other valuable services like detailed information about various procedures, detailed hospital profiles and surgeon profiles, medical records transfer, free surgery quote, pre- and post-consultation with the overseas hospital, feedback and testimonials from previous patients, medical and dental loan financing, passport and visa, airport pick-up and drop-off, hospital escort, tickets, travel insurance, hotel booking, tourism services in the destination country, etc.

Due research and planning are vital to happy, safe and successful medical travel. Therefore, you must follow the above medical travel tips and do your homework before boarding the plane.

You can learn more about the growing trend of medical tourism, international healthcare facilities and surgeons and the details of the medical tourism process by logging on to 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.

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Medical Malpractice Insurance Product for the Medical Tourism Industry

New insurance coverage is now available to protect individuals should medical malpractice occur while seeking healthcare services in a foreign country.

Aug. 17, 2007 --- AOS Assurance Company Limited today announced the launch of a new and unique issuance of insurance to cover people who travel outside their country for medical procedures, for either elective or non-elective procedures. Patient Medical Malpractice Insurance (PMMI) addresses the financial and personal risks related to out of domicile medical travel. PMMI resolves the medical tourist's financial risk. It is "first person" insurance, much like traditional travel insurance, that is purchased by the patient before traveling for the medical or surgical procedure. Should a medical malpractice occur abroad, the claim is handled in accordance with the patient's own home country standards and claims are paid in U.S. currency. There are no lawyers or lawsuits involved, and claims are estimated to be settled 80 percent faster than the traditional litigation environment.

This will provide necessary insurance for medical tourists. This development will also help mitigate the liability risk assumed by medical tourism companies (portals) arranging the foreign practitioner and hospital on behalf of the patient, should the patient purchase the product beforehand.

AOS has also developed a group version of the PMMI product called GMMI (Group Medical Malpractice Insurance) to be used in the growing group insurance market.

Source: eWorldWire

Brought to you by Healthbase - Medical Tourism Facilitator

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Medical innovation changes fate of patients who need a new lung

Twenty-percent of people needing a lung transplant will die waiting for one. Unlike damaged kidneys or hearts, doctors say it's very difficult to keep injured lungs working long enough to get a transplant.

Yen Tran is lucky to be alive. Last December, she was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension.
Pulmonary hypertension constricts vessels that lead to the lungs, making it nearly impossible for the heart to get oxygen-rich blood to the lungs.

"Many patients die of this disease, and it can be quite rapidly progressive," said Tom Waddell, MD, PhD.
A lung transplant can help, but many die before they get one. Yen was in the ICU waiting for a new lung when her heart stopped.

"If the physicians had stopped compressing her chest, she was dead," said Waddell.

Yen was kept alive with this new artificial lung called the Novalung. She was the first person in North America to get it.

"In general, the results have been quite good for a group of patients that ultimately would face certain death," said Waddell.

The novalung bought Yen time until a donor lung was found.

Source: ABC 7 Chicago

Brought to you by Healthbase - Medical Tourism Facilitator

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Obese people who have weight-loss surgery live longer

Studies show that obese people who have weight-loss surgery live longer than those who don't

The first long-term studies of stomach stapling and other radical obesity treatments show that they not only lead to lasting weight loss but also dramatically improve survival. The results are expected to lead to more such operations, possibly for less severely obese people, too.

Researchers in Sweden and the United States separately found that obese people who underwent drastic surgery had a 30 percent to 40 percent lower risk of dying seven to 10 years later compared with those who did not have such operations.

The research was published in Thursday's New England Journal of Medicine, should put to rest uncertainties about the benefits and risks of weight-loss surgery and may cause governments and insurers to rethink who should qualify for the procedure, some doctors said.

"It's going to dispel the notion that bariatric surgery is cosmetic surgery and support the notion that it saves lives," said Dr. Philip Schauer, director of bariatric surgery at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, who had no role in the research.

Obesity surgeries have surged in recent years along with global waistlines. In the United States alone, 177,600 operations were performed last year, according to the American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery. The most common method was gastric bypass, or stomach-stapling surgery, which reduces the stomach to a small walnut-sized pouch and bypasses part of the small intestine where digestion occurs.

The Swedish study is the longest look yet at how obesity surgery affects mortality.

Researchers led by Dr. Lars Sjostrom of Goteborg University compared 4,047 people with a body-mass index over 34 who had one of three types of surgery or received standard diet advice. BMI is a standard measure of height and weight and a BMI over 30 is considered obese.

After a decade, those in the surgery group lost 14 percent to 25 percent of their original weight compared to 2 percent in the other group. Of the 2,010 surgery patients, 101 died. There were 129 deaths in the comparison group of 2,037 people.

In the U.S. study, Ted Adams of the University of Utah led a team that looked at 7,925 severely obese people in the state who had gastric bypass. They were matched with similar people who did not have the operation and who were selected through their driver's license records listing height and weight.

After an average of seven years' follow-up, 213 people who had surgery died compared to 321 who did not have the procedure. The study did not look at weight loss.

Deaths from diabetes in the surgery group were dramatically cut by 92 percent; from cancer by 60 percent and from heart disease by 56 percent. Surprisingly, the surgery group had a higher risk of death from accidents, suicides and other causes not related to disease. The researchers were puzzled by this.

More than 400 million people worldwide are obese and surgery is the only proven method to shed significant pounds in a short time. In the United States, it costs $17,000 to $35,000 and insurance coverage varies.

Weight-loss surgery is considered relatively safe with the risk of death from the surgery at less than 1 percent. Common complications include nutritional deficiency, gallstones and hernia.

U.S. guidelines recommend that surgery be considered only after traditional ways to slim down have failed. Candidates must be at least 100 pounds overweight and have a BMI over 40, or a BMI over 35 plus an obesity-related medical condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

Source: ABC 7 Chicago

Brought to you by Healthbase - Medical Tourism Facilicator.

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Number of Uninsured Rises

Number of uninsured up despite an increase in household income and decline in poverty rate

August 28, 2007 - US Census Bureau News - Real median household income in the United States climbed between 2005 and 2006, reaching $48,200, according to a report released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. This is the second consecutive year that income has risen.

Meanwhile, the nation’s official poverty rate declined for the first time this decade, from 12.6 percent in 2005 to 12.3 percent in 2006. There were 36.5 million people in poverty in 2006, not statistically different from 2005. The number of people without health insurance coverage rose from 44.8 million (15.3 percent) in 2005 to 47 million (15.8 percent) in 2006.

Despite the favorable conditions, the number of uninsured Americans rose up. Following are the highlights of the US Census Bureau Report pertaining to health insurance coverage in the United States for 2006.

• Both the percentage and the number of people without health insurance increased in 2006. The percentage without health insurance increased from 15.3 percent in 2005 to 15.8 percent in 2006, and the number of uninsured increased from 44.8 million to 47.0 million.

• The percentage of people covered by employment-based health insurance decreased to 59.7 percent in 2006, from 60.2 percent in 2005.

• The percentage of people covered by government health programs decreased to 27.0 percent in 2006, from 27.3 percent in 2005. The percentage and the number of people covered by Medicaid were statistically unchanged at 12.9 percent and 38.3 million, respectively, in 2006.

• The percentage and the number of children under 18 years old without health insurance increased to 11.7 percent and 8.7 million in 2006 (from 10.9 percent and 8.0 million, respectively, in 2005) (Table 6). With an uninsured rate in 2006 at 19.3 percent, children in poverty were more likely to be uninsured than all children.

Source: US Census Bureau

Medical Tourism is the answer to the healthcare needs of uninsured Americans.

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Interview with Maggi Ann Grace - Author of State of the Heart

Here's another interview in the series from another expert in the medical tourism industry. Maggi Ann Grace, the author of State of the Heart, talks of her personal experience in India, her testimony before the US Senate about globalization of healthcare, and other things.

Question: We understand that you developed an interest in medical tourism as a result of exploring for affordable healthcare options outside the United States for Mr. Staab’s heart surgery. What kind of hurdles were you meeting for similar care in the US for him?

They would not work with us on payment, and the cost was astronomical. They preferred we wait until Howard's heart failed and he had to come to the Emergency Room in an ambulance. But he only had a mechanical, fixable problem... not a damaged heart muscle. We didn't have the money up front.

Question: What led you to writing “State of the Heart”?

The flood of questions and pleas for help from potential patients, researchers, Indian citizens, etc. who wanted to know how we did it. I couldn't help as many people one at a time as I thought I could. If I wrote a book about our experience, I thought it might give the personal side of the story… to offer some hope, some comfort to those who venture into this unknown territory.

Question: How was the quality of health care that Mr. Staab received in India? How much did it cost? And how much do you think you saved by going to India?

The quality of care was superb. Total 3 weeks of hospitalization and two surgeries was $6,700. Just a 5-7 day stay for one operation was estimated at $200,000 in the U.S. The entire trip for one month cost us under $10,000.

Question: Wasn’t it kind of risky to take a long flight to India when you had your heart at stake?

Yes, I imagine we didn't realize how risky. That's why it's not for everyone, in any state of health.

Question: You also presented a testimony before the U.S. Senate last summer regarding the globalization of healthcare. What was the reaction of the Senate on this? What problems do you think such a globalization can solve?

I think globalization offers a very viable option for those under- and uninsured. But it is not the way to fix our system. Instead of outsourcing, I think we should be looking at India's private sector as a model of how to streamline ours, make care the priority instead of the bottom line.

Question: You also do social work in India for children affected by the tsunami. How did you develop an interest in such a service?

I stumbled upon an orphanage in Mamallapuram, quite by coincidence. We spent Christmas of 2006 there, and bought them food for their pantry, pillows for the children, and worked with the children with art projects, decorations, etc. Fell in love with the children, and intend to go back. A little bit goes a long way. I guess that is social work. But it was exhilarating and fun!

Question: Would you like to add anything else?

I hope my book offers a personal perspective... that these are real people, highly trained professionals, who will care for you until you are well enough to return home. They are not in a hurry to get you out of the hospital, or to get to the next patient. Anyone considering going to India or any other country should always take a companion to serve as liaison to the medical staff. It is an adventure, and when we are faced with health crises, often times we aren't up for the adventure. I hope we continue to work toward deactivating the power structure of the insurance companies and pharmaceutical companies here, so our doctors and nurses can get back to caring for patients.


Thanks, Ms. Grace, for your time and your views. We wish you success with State of the Heart.

Stay tuned to Medical Tourism News and Views for more news, views and videos.

This exclusive interview was brought to you by Healthbase. For more information on medical tourism visit Healthbase.com.


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Interview with Josef Woodman - Author of Patients Beyond Borders

Just like we promised, we bring to you some more views from another expert in the medical tourism industry. Josef Woodman, the author of Patients Beyond Borders shares below his thoughts on the growing medical tourism trend in the US. Read on to learn from the expert..

Question: How did you develop an interest in medical tourism? What motivated you to write Patients Beyond Borders?

In 1997, I co-founded MyDailyHealth, an online, profile-driven preventive health service licensed to insurers and employers. Through that experience, I became aware of the looming US healthcare crisis. When contemporary international travel began to gain popularity, our research began. I became personally involved in medical tourism when I joined my father in Mexico, where he had some $24,000 worth of restorative dental work done, at a total savings of around $11,000. As international medical travel becomes a significant component of the US and global healthcare landscape, and the larger political debate, we see “Patients Beyond Borders” and related efforts as forming a mouthpiece of consumer advocacy for the more than 75 million un- and underinsured Americans aging into financially challenging medical procedures.

Question: How did you collect the information you used in your book? What form of research did you do?

A small team of authors and researchers worked on the book for nearly three years, profiling various medical tourism destinations, vetting hundreds of hospitals and clinics, investigating regional and international accreditation, interviewing patients, patient’s families, medical practitioners and administrators, health travel agents, and more. Extensive surveys were sent to treatment centers. The author has visited more then 40 hospitals in 7 destinations.

Question: Do you expect the medical tourism trend growing in the US?

Medical tourism is growing in the US 15-20% annually. This figure is expected to rise as baby boomers age into expensive treatment and as the industry gains infrastructure, raising consumer confidence in international medical travel.

Question: What do you tell people to keep in mind when deciding upon an overseas facility for treatment?

Above all, be an informed, scrutinizing healthcare consumer. Thoroughly check hospitals accreditation(s), number of surgeries performed, success/mortality rates; in the same manner, patients should check physicians’ credentials, board certifications, professional affiliations.

Question: Do you hear from happy or otherwise unhappy customers thanking you or complaining to you about the advice you gave in your book?

We’re often contacted by prospective patients, seeking supplemental advice to the information found in “Patients Beyond Borders.” As we do not recommend specific hospitals, physicians or courses of treatment, we are often of limited help to these callers.

Question: Are there hospitals out there that do not have international accreditations like JCI but still maintain best practice standards of care? If yes, why do they choose not to be accredited?

Yes, dozens of top-flight hospitals abroad are certified by their country’s accreditation agency, or an international agency other than JCI. Our research shows that Americans are gaining familiarity with accreditation, and gain comfort in JCI-accredited hospitals, as well as hospitals that partner with American medical centers, such as Harvard Medical, Johns Hopkins and Cleveland Clinic.

Question: How are the American healthcare providers reacting to Americans traveling overseas for care?

Regarding hospitals many of America’s best hospitals are aggressively partnering with hospitals and hospital networks abroad, sharing research, technical skills and sometimes staff. Duke University Medical Center is building a Graduate Medical School in Singapore. The list of partnerships grows monthly.

On the physician front, many doctors—understandably--feel threatened by medical tourism, and are openly hostile. Many lack knowledge about overseas hospitals and are not in a position to properly inform their patients. We believe that as the US healthcare crisis deepens, physicians and surgeons must engage in more collaborative relationships with patients who express wishes to travel overseas for affordable treatment.

Question: How about insurance companies? Do you anticipate them jumping into the medical tourism business?

Insurance companies are just getting their feet wet, and some have launched pilot programs (e.g. Blue Cross Blue Shield of SC). Pressured by employers large and small, carriers are seeking alternatives to the very costly treatments that break most plans. As challenges of liability and medical transparency are met, we expect to see insurance companies become more aggressive and creative on this front, offering specialized carve-outs for medical travelers and employers.

Question: To those Americans who are skeptical about going to a third world country for care, what do you have to say?

I say, we hear you. Even when armed with the facts, it’s hard for most people to imagine themselves actually boarding a plane for a medical procedure in a far-flung land. Medical travel isn’t for everyone. That said, there’s safety in numbers, and last year more than 150,000 Americans traveled abroad for a wide array of treatment, saved more than $2 billion collectively, and came home to tell about it.

Question: Why have you dedicated a full book on Singapore medical tourism?

The “Patients Beyond Borders Singapore Edition” is the first in what we expect to be a series of country-specific editions, which allow us to offer in-depth information that a general guidebook cannot. The Singapore Edition was the result of a very successful collaboration between our company, Singapore Medicine and the Singapore Tourism Board. With its excellent medical and research infrastructure, Singapore is the ideal candidate for the first edition of this series.

Question: What’s coming next for you?

A Second Edition of the book (mid-2008), greater Web presence, creative partnerships with carriers and providers, more country-specific editions.

Question: Would you like to add anything else?

We’re happy to hear from patients and others who wish to share their stories or otherwise comment on international medical travel.


Thanks, Mr. Woodman, for your time and your valuable insight. We wish you all the best with Patients Beyond Borders Singapore Edition.

Stay tuned to Medical Tourism News and Views for more news, views and videos.

This exclusive interview was brought to you by Healthbase. For more information on medical tourism visit Healthbase.com.


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Interview with David Hancock - Author of The Complete Medical Tourist

Below are some informative and enlightening thoughts by David Hancock - the author of The Complete Medical Tourist - about the factors leading to the growth of medical tourism in the UK. We had a chance to interview him recently where he shared his views about the sad state of Britain's NHS, the ever-growing wait-lists for treatment and other things. Here's the interview..


Question: Did you personally seek medical treatment in any overseas hospital before you got the idea of writing The Complete Medical Tourist? How did you collect the information you used in your book?

It is a strange story but it started when I fell off my bicycle in the Docklands area of London and fractured my pelvis. I was rushed to hospital and operated on immediately, but while recovering in the orthopaedic ward I heard stories of people who had been waiting two years, in considerable pain, for hip or knee replacements.

Then there was a post-operative infection discovered on the plate placed in my pelvis, which resulted in me having to undergo a hip replacement operation myself. All this from falling off a bicycle.

As a journalist I decided to investigate alternatives to Britain’s National Health Service. Private treatment I found was prohibitive because of the cost for people who did not have private health insurance. I discovered that a hip replacement in the UK was around £12,000 but if one went under the channel tunnel to Belgium the cost was halved. In India the same operation was a quarter of the UK cost. I had discovered medical tourism.

I decided to write The Complete Medical Tourist for anyone wanting to go abroad for treatment. All clinics, hospitals, addresses, web sites, costs of treatment and other important information from countries worldwide are available in one paperback book.

I researched clinics in Europe and used a string of friends round the world to help with information from more far-flung places’

Question: How is the National Health Service scene in Britain? Are the wait-lists long? For what kind of surgeries do patients have to wait the longest? Is that because of a lack of doctors/surgeons or because of poor infrastructure or something else? Is the government doing anything about it?

Billions and billions of pounds have been poured into the NHS in recent years and waiting lists have been cut, but patients are still waiting months for non-urgent operations. The longest waiting lists are usually for orthopaedic operations even though sufferers may be in considerable a pain and find walking difficult. The NHS is like a big black money pit, you can pour as much into it as possible but it will never be perfect. It is the hottest political potato in the UK with its promise of free medical care from cradle to grave and no political party has had the guts to promise long-overdue reform involving private medical insurance, so it continues to swallow billions and billions of pounds in taxes, with the common perception that nothing is getting better. Hospitals are dirty and superbugs like MRSA are prevalent.

Question: Do many people in the UK go to private doctors to avoid waiting for treatment? Or do they prefer knocking at their neighbors’ doors? If so, which countries do they usually choose to go to? How much of a discount can they get in those countries when compared with that in the UK?

As I mentioned earlier merely going to mainland Europe can usually cut the cost of private medical treatment in half compared with UK costs. Belgium, France, Spain, Germany and even Poland are proving to be favourite European destinations with East European countries like Hungary and Poland especially good value for dental surgery.

People who have private UK medical insurance will be treated in the UK, but once insurance companies embrace ‘medical tourism’ they will be able to cut their heavy premiums and will see an increase in take-up.

Question: Do UK patients also travel far to countries like India or Thailand? For which surgeries are these countries famous for among UK folks?

With long-haul holiday destinations on the increase combined with state-of-the-art hospitals like the Apollo Group in India it is no wonder that Far East countries are becoming a major choice for UK medical tourists. Prices are even more affordable that in Europe. Orthopaedic surgery, eye surgery and cosmetic and dental surgery is still the backbone of medical tourism. But Thailand is also famous for gender re-alignment and India offers every possible kind of medical surgery from cancer to cardiac treatments.

Question: Do you expect the medical tourism trend to continue to grow in the UK?

Medical Tourism is not a flash-in-the-pan. Its growth in the UK is around 50 per cent a year, which exponentially is quite an amazing figure. In the US it accounts for $5 billion to $6 billion a year. Not a lot compared with a healthcare industry of $2 trillion a year, but it is growing fast. To dismiss it would be foolish

Question: What do you tell medical tourists to keep in mind when deciding upon an overseas facility for treatment?

The first thing to remember is that the ‘medical’ part is the most important and not the ‘tourist’ bit, Some people can be easily swayed by the thought of recovering in a five-star hotel on a tropical beach, but the medical facilities and treatment are more important than the sun tan.

Research thoroughly the destinations and establishments you might wish to go to. The Complete Medical Tourist is a good reference book to begin with, from there you can phone the clinics, speak to the doctor who will be in charge of your case and assure yourself you are in the right hands. Ask for testimonials from previous patients, and follow that up – talk to those people.

Take into account the flight time and cost. You might want to go business class for extra comfort, and you may wish to take a partner or friend to be with you. This will all add to the cost.

Don’t forget to inform the person from whom you buy your travel insurance that you are traveling for medical treatment. This may, or may not, affect the premium you pay.

Question: When will we see the next edition of The Complete Tourist? What topics are covered in it?

I am still negotiating with my publisher about a future edition of The Complete Medical Tourist and no date has yet been set. But one thing is sure; it will be bigger, better and take into account the major strides in medical tourism since my book was first published.

Question: Would you like to add anything else?

Just to say thank you for inviting me to say a few words and the best of luck with Healthbase Online Inc.

Thanks, Mr. Hancock for sharing your thoughts with us. We hope to see the second edition of the Complete Medical Tourist soon.

Stay tuned y'all.. We'll soon be posting more interviews with other famous personalities in the medical tourism business..

This exclusive interview was brought to you by Healthbase. For more information on medical tourism visit Healthbase.com.

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Interview with Jeffrey Schult - Author of Beauty From Afar

Recently, we had the opportunity to interview Jeffrey Schult, the author of Beauty From Afar. Here are his views on medical tourism, the reaction of US healthcare providers, our changing healthcare system, the adapting insurance companies, etc. etc. Read on...


Question: How did you develop an interest in medical tourism? What motivated you to write Beauty From Afar?

I first heard of people traveling outside the United States for medical care in early 2004, on an e-mail list about outsourcing. Someone on the list interjected that outsourcing wasn’t just about manufacturing and call centers and computer programming and financial services – that people were actually outsourcing their own medical care. I had needed some extensive dental work for several years that I could not afford in the U.S. I immediately started looking into overseas options.

I ended up choosing Prisma Dental (www.cosmetics-dentistry.com) in Costa Rica and wrote a lengthy magazine article (www.tftb.com/beautyfromafar) about my positive experience. The article led directly to my finding a literary agent who believed there was a market for a book about medical tourism. The rights to Beauty from Afar were sold in early 2005 to Stewart, Tabori & Chang of New York, and I continued researching medical tourism worldwide. The book was finished in the spring of 2006 and published last summer.

Question: Did you personally visit the overseas facilities yourself to collect data that you used in Beauty From Afar?

I had originally hoped to tour the world personally as part of my research (who wouldn’t?!) but that was not in the budget. I did manage to make some trips abroad and I traveled within the United States to meet doctors and surgeons from overseas when they were visiting. But the research and interviews for the book were mostly done via telephone and e-mail with patients, doctors, surgeons and other medical professionals, along with extensive Internet research. I think, overall, I probably ended up with a better and more useful book this way. I was doing my research much the way any patient could, if they had the time (though far more in depth.) If I had traveled – well, I know I would have enjoyed the trips greatly, but the book probably would have been written more through just my own eyes rather than through the eyes of so many more people.

Question: You had extensive dental work done in Costa Rica. Did you ever have dental work done in the US? How would you compare the quality of care in the two countries?

I went to dentists in the United States, regularly, as one is supposed to, for the first 46 or so years of my life. The care was fine, as you would expect … but my upper teeth just were wearing out before they were supposed to. The restoration of my upper teeth was done superbly in Costa Rica at a cost of a half to a third of what it would have cost in the U.S. The facilities were outstanding, as were my dentists.

Comparing the two – I would say that I could not have had a better experience or result in the United States than I had in Costa Rica. And I could afford my Costa Rican experience. Without medical tourism, having a great smile in my 50s was going to be just a fantasy.

Question: Do you hear from happy or otherwise unhappy customers thanking you or complaining to you about the advice you gave in your book? What do you tell people to keep in mind when deciding upon an overseas facility for treatment?

I hear on almost a daily basis from people who have read Beauty from Afar, thanking me for giving them a way forward on their own medical, dental and cosmetic research. It’s a tremendous feeling, knowing I have helped a lot of people.

I have also heard directly from several people who have had bad experiences in seeking or obtaining medical and dental care abroad. I can recall just one who told me I had done a disservice to the public by writing the book, and he hadn’t actually read it. I also, of course, know indirectly of patients who have not gotten the results from medical tourism for which they hap hoped, and of people who died during or after surgery. Not very many, but a few. I don’t want to sound cold about such cases and I have the deepest sympathy for these people and their families. But the same thing could have happened to them in the United States.

Medical treatment and surgery does not come with guarantees. The care that one can receive in many places around the world, in the modern facilities in the major metropolitan areas, is comparable. I tell people that, and that they should look at all their medical options carefully. I think reading Beauty from Afar gives people the kind of information they need to make good decisions.

Question: How are the American healthcare providers reacting to Americans traveling overseas for care?

A Costa Rican surgeon I once interviewed kind of summed up what is going on: “Those who are not against us want to join us.” We laughed at that, but it’s true. American healthcare providers are beginning to recognize that medical tourism and out-of-country providers are viable options for many people under certain circumstances and are starting to incorporate international health care into the options available to insured Americans. This is going to evolve over the next few years, and it’s fascinating to watch.

Question: Do you foresee the American healthcare system changing owing to the rising popularity of medical tourism?

Sure, I think it will have an impact over time. But U.S. health care is a $1.5 trillion economic system and it doesn’t change rapidly. Medical tourism is a very small piece of that picture even if it continues to grow rapidly, which I think it will.

“Small” is relative, of course. In this case, “small” still means, potentially, billions or tens of billions of dollars spent annually on out-of-country health care.

Question: How about insurance companies? Do you anticipate them jumping into the medical tourism business? Do you think it will be profitable for them as well as the insured to opt for medical tourism plans?

Yes, yes, and yes.

It’s already happening. People in southern California can buy relatively inexpensive insurance that sends them to Mexico for non-emergency care, and the option is popular. Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina is gearing up to offer medical tourism through a subsidiary. These are innovative, early-stage offerings and others will be along soon. It makes sense for insurers to try to cut costs. It makes sense for consumers to try to cut costs. So it’s going to be tried.

Question: To those Americans who are skeptical about going to a third world country for care, what do you have to say?

I usually say, politely, that they need to update their notion of what “third world” means, and I’ll tell them about what is available and where, and what it’s like for people who actually do this. I think awareness of medical tourism, though still low, is growing rapidly. More people are going all the time. Medical tourism has phenomenal “word of mouth” appeal. And these days, it’s getting more and more favorable treatment in the media. That has sort of evolved over time, as such things do. That people go overseas for health care no longer shocks news reporters, as it did only a few years ago. It’s no longer a “gee whiz” story. We’ve moved on to “What’s next?” and “What does it mean?”

Question: What’s coming next for you?

I’m working with a company, CPR Strategic Marketing Communications (www.cpronline.com), which has a lot of experience with the development of medical tourism, to bring out a newsletter called Medical Travel Today. I expect we’ll launch that in the next few weeks and I think we can make it a valuable resource for the international medical/business community and for patients.

I continue to promote Beauty from Afar, of course, and that’s a lot of fun. I hope I’ll eventually have the opportunity to write the next chapter of the medical tourism story but I think that may be a year or two down the road. I have a couple of other books I’m working on – I’m a journalist and writer, that’s what I do – but none of them is yet contracted for, so I’m not decided on which will get finished first!

Question: Any final words?

I’m not ready to write my epitaph quite yet. ;-)

Seriously, I appreciate the opportunity to add to the ongoing conversation in the world about medical travel and I’ll be delighted to continue the discussion if people have comments or questions.


Those were quite objective views on the subject. Thanks, Mr. Schult, for your time and for providing us the insight into the matter. We wish you all the best in all your future ventures. And, may it be decades before you have to write your epitaph!

This exclusive interview was brought to you by Healthbase. For more information on medical tourism visit Healthbase.com.


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FOX 59 Health Works

More Americans Seeking Medical Treatment Overseas



Watch this video on FOX 59 featuring a medical tourist who went to India for a hip resurfacing surgery.

This video was brought to you by Healthbase. For more information on medical tourism visit Healthbase.com.


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ABC Money Matters

Some Americans are going to foreign lands to get cheap surgeries



Watch this feature on Medical Tourism on ABC Money Matters.

This video was brought to you by Healthbase. For more information on medical tourism visit Healthbase.com.


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