We are going to take a quick look at four countries, scattered over the Latin America, which make up a few of the primary destinations for Medical Tourism. In this manner, you can gather a basic picture of what's available on the international scene. You'll need much more information than is supplied here to make a decision, but here's your starting point.
Brazil
Brazil, once known mainly because of its international practice in cosmetic surgery, is now actively seeking a wider role in Medical Tourism. More medical facilities happen to be accredited by the JCI in Brazil compared to any country other than america and Singapore. In 2005, nearly 50,000 medical tourists visited Brazil - several that is growing rapidly. Portuguese-speaking Brazil has a significant European feel, with about 1 / 2 of the population having primarily European roots. Medical costs in Brazil are about 50 % of those found in the United States - not the lowest priced, but Brazil does have active legal protection against malpractice and fraud. The conventional and style of care are very similar to that encountered in Western facilities, with several hospitals in Sao Paolo being considered one of the world's finest. Brazil requires visas for American visitors as reciprocation for that US requirement that Brazilian tourists have visas.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica, the only Latin American country counted one of the world's 22 older democracies, is a popular Medical Tourism place to go for cosmetic surgery and dental care for that United States, attracting over 20,000 medical tourists every year to Central America. San Jose is gaining favor like a destination for more intensive health care, having 6 private hospitals (3 which have JCI accreditation) and 22 public hospitals. The price of medical procedures and aftercare services are about 30-40% people prices. The largely volcanic geography lends to some marvelous ecotourism experience. No visas are needed for stays up to 3 months.
Mexico
The proximity of Mexico towards the United States makes it a primary place to go for Medical Tourism, even though the cost is not as low as are found elsewhere on the planet. Dental care is a major goal, since many procedures can be accomplished during a excursion just across the border. Medical cost is generally 25-35% of the equivalent US costs. Although Mexico's laws make bring suit for malpractice extraordinarily difficult, about 90% are convinced that the care received in Mexico was good or excellent - a much better report than received through the American health system! The close integration from the border region economies makes resolution of the number of Americans seeking treatment in Mexico difficult, but it's clear that the number is incorporated in the millions and growing rapidly.
Panama
Panama has remarkable attractions, a thoroughly Americanized culture and economy, and it has the safest and most modern capital in Central America. Given the proximity towards the United States, it is not surprising the role of Panama like a Medical Tourism destination is growing rapidly. English is widely spoken, and Panama's doctors are largely US-trained. At the moment, only a few thousand medical tourists visit Panama each year, partially because the medical cost is relatively high for a Medical Tourism destination - about 50% people rates. However, the lack of culture shock within the Medical Tourism experience may be worth the additional expense to a growing quantity of international patients.
