Medical Tourism may involve several risks. It is basically travelling to another country or destination for the purpose of treatment for quality care and better affordability.

However, going to a different country, that too for treatment, may involve risks and things can go out of hand, if not planned from prior.

You may be having several doubts and confusions when you are planning for a medical trip.

But not to worry. Karetrip will help you in planning your medical tourism. In this blog, you can explore 9 tips that you must keep in mind when you go for medical tourism.

Medical Tourism: Overview

Medical Tourism means travelling to another country for the sake of medical treatment and care. It is widespread throughout the world nowadays.

Medical tourism is opted by millions of people nowadays for the sake of affordable treatment, to access procedures that are not available in their home countries or to seek treatment from healthcare professionals who share their native culture and language.

It is essential to take necessary precautions to ensure a safe journey . There are many factors that must be considered when planning your medical journey. The main 9 tips that must be kept in your mind while planning are listed below:

Tip 1: Research about the Doctor and Hospital

The credentials of the hospital or clinic and the educational qualifications and experience of the doctor who is performing the procedure should be researched thoroughly.

You must check the accreditations from reputable organisations such as DNVGL International Accreditation for Hospitals and Joint Commission International.

Keep in mind that these accreditations will not guarantee a positive outcome as there may be risks associated with every surgery.

Tip 2: Get a Prior Consultation

Before going for actual consultation , visit your health care professional or a travel medicine clinician at least 4-5 weeks in advance.

This is to discuss the general information for healthy travel and specific risks associated with your health status , the procedure etc.

In addition to this, you can obtain International travel health insurance which covers the risk of any complications that could happen after you arrive home.

Tip 3: Maintain a Proper Account of your Health and Medical Records

Essential documents including lab test results and medical copies should be there with you before going for the trip.

You should keep additional copies of the same. If you have any allergies, inform the medical staff at your destination.

You should keep a travel health kit which contains your prescription medicines and over the counter medications for the entire trip.

You should keep the copies of all your prescriptions and should create a list of medications that you take. This list should contain the brand name, generic name , manufacturer name and dosage details.

Tip 4: Arrangement for Follow-up Care

Plan in advance for your follow up journey also. Identify where you are staying immediately after the procedure and ensure the correct follow up order in your home country.

You should be also aware of the potential financial costs of follow up care or emergencies in case of any complications. Your health insurance policy should be reviewed and checked what all are covered in it and consider any supplemental travel health insurance if required.

Tip 5: Pack Necessary Documents and Paperwork

Double Check and ensure that you have all the essential documents such as medical records required for the consultation, passports and visas before the trip.

Keep in your hand additional copies of the same in different bags or suitcases in account to tackle the possibility of losing the luggage.

You should check the visa and passport of your destination country as well in advance .

You should also check about the currency exchange ahead of time in order to avoid unfavourable exchange rates.

Tip 6: Carry Necessary Medications and After Care Products

You should pack necessary medications such as pain relievers and medicines which may not be readily available in your destination country.

Depending on the procedure and the country of visit , you also want to bring necessary after care products such as band aids, scissors , gauze, wound dressings and over the counter medications etc.

Keeping these items in your bag and being prepared will save money and time and will also ensure comfort during the recovery period.

Tip 7: Pack Comfortable Clothing and Other Care Items

Keep comfortable clothing which is suitable for both travelling and to use in a hospital environment. Some of the comfortable clothes that can be used are loose fitting dresses, pyjamas with front buttons and robes.

You should also keep with you essential items such as pillows , slippers and bed linens to check your comfort during your stay.

Always remember to keep insect repellant in order to protect yourself from disease carrying insects in certain destinations.

Tip 8: Have Emergency Contact Information Readily Available

You should prepare a list of emergency contact information including the name, phone number and addresses of doctors who provide the treatment, hospital, the hotel and other important destinations.

Preparing a list of emergency contact information, including the names, phone numbers, and addresses of your doctors, the hospital, the hotel, and other important destinations.

Easily accessible information can be used in case of emergencies , especially in countries where you may face language barriers.

Tip 9: Consider Bringing a Travel Companion

It is always good to bring a trusted companion with you when you are on your medical tourism trip. Whenever possible, it’s good to bring a trusted companion with you on your medical tourism trip.

Having someone by your side who can provide you emotional support and assist you throughout the trip, and be invaluable in case of any emergencies.

These guidelines should be followed accordingly in order to prioritise your health and well being throughout the entire journey of planning the trip to recovery process.

How Karetrip Supports You In Your Medical Tourism Journey ?

Karetrip.com will help you to plan your medical tourism journey on your own. You should take control of your trip by finding your healthcare provider , booking your travel and purchasing insurance.

You can trust us in your healthcare journey as smoothly and stress free as possible. If you are in search of a smooth well being journey , We are here to help you through your entire process.

The information provided represents the views and opinions of Karetrip. It is crucial to conduct your own independent research before making any decisions regarding your healthcare journey. - Disclaimer