Medical tourism can be broadly defined as a ‘cost effective’ private medical care provided in tandem with the tourism industry to the patients who require surgical and other forms of specialized treatments. In other words f or the uninitiated, medical tourism refers to a tourist visiting another country with the dual purpose of getting medical treatment, which is more affordable in the other country, and enjoying a rejuvenating vacation as well.

In the western countries, paying the exorbitant bills does not fit everyone’s bill. Moreover, the waiting lists to meet the specialized doctors run mile long, leaving them with no option but to look for alternatives outside their country at places where the cost is met with quality and expertise.

United States is one of the first world countries to have initiated the concept of medical tourism, where an estimated 43 million people are without health insurance and 120 million without dental coverage and the numbers are likely to grow. Patients in Britain, Canada and other countries with long waiting lists for major surgery are just as eager to take advantage of foreign healthcare options.

Developing countries such as India, Thailand and Singapore offer complete medical and healthcare facilities at almost one-tenth the cost of what people have to spend in the US, UK, Canada or other western countries. The Asian countries promise state-of-the-art healthcare and surgical facilities, wholesome climate and exotic tourist destinations. The idea of rejuvenation and cost-effective quality medical treatment is what makes medical tourism a lucrative option for patients all over the world.

It is advisable to engage the services of a local representative of hospitals offering specialized services. These representatives make all arrangements like travel,visa, and accomodation to ensure every need of the patient is taken care of. The best part is - there is only a small fee involved. Moreover, clinics assign patients a personal assistant for the post-hospital recovery period and throw in a vacation incentive as well, and the deal gets even more attractive. Additionally, many Asian airlines offer frequent-flyer miles to ease the cost of returning for follow-up visits.

Medical tourism is booming at an alarming rate and experts says that the phenomenon has just begun.