Health Tourism In South America
The concept of health tourism has led many countries to bolster their status as an international medical provider. From state-of-the-art infrastructure and medical facilities to highly qualified and experienced physicians and medical staff, many countries have left no stone unturned in the quest to boost their tourism and health industries. Many of these often surpass international standards when it comes to medical facilities and equipment. North Americans are a stone's throw away from seeking affordable treatment in countries such as Argentina and Brazil.
The proximity of the country to North America is a major attraction with low cost airfares providing the perfect opportunity for travelers seeking medical care outside their home country. The escalating costs of healthcare in the US and Canada with millions of uninsured Americans adding to the dilemma, health tourism is the perfect answer to the solution. Cosmetic surgeons in Argentina are well known in performing cosmetic procedures at a fraction of the cost when compared with North America. Pursuing treatment as well as enjoying a vacation at an affordable price are what attract an increasing amount of travelers to the second largest country in South America.
Argentina's healthcare system is among the most affordable. Hospitals have doctors that speak English. Moreover, you have the option to meet with various doctors and find one you are comfortable with. Apart from cosmetic surgery, the country is known for innovative technologies used in fertility treatment. Orthopedic surgery, obesity/bariatric surgery and weight loss programs are conducted at some of the best clinics in the country.
Brazil is another South American destination that has one of the largest health networks with several hospitals and clinics catering to foreign patients seeking affordable medical treatment away from home. The beauty of the Brazilian woman is well known, however, the country is also becoming world-famous for its cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures that can be undergone at less than half the cost than a normal procedure in the UK or US. Moreover, Brazil has plenty to offer vacationers in terms of fabulous beaches, which are a great place to recover after a medical procedure.
Realizing the importance of health tourism, many of the country's hospitals have received accreditation from the Joint Commission International and offer excellent medical facilities at affordable prices. Well trained and qualified surgeons in top private hospitals across the country are geared towards health tourism, having performed procedures on a number of foreign visitors seeking medical treatment while on vacation. While private hospitals have acquired the necessary accreditation from the Joint Commission International, most physicians are members of regulatory bodies such as the Brazilian Medical Association as well.
Brazil offers medical tourists a variety of services which includes cosmetic and plastic surgery, dental treatments, hair transplants, ophthalmic surgery, weight loss and obesity surgery, and much more. You can expect to have a tummy tuck or face lift at around 40% of the cost when compared with the US and UK. Moreover, Brazil offers a choice of destinations to relax and recuperate.