Is plastic surgery considered medical or health tourism?

All surgical procedures, including cosmetic and aesthetic surgeries, fall under medical tourism. Even if the motivation is wellness-oriented, these involve accredited medical facilities, real surgical risks, and require proper medical tourism insurance.

How much can medical tourists save on procedures abroad?

Medical tourists can typically save between 30% and 70% compared to U.S. prices. For example, a dental procedure costing $4,000 in the U.S. might be $1,200 in Costa Rica, while knee replacement surgery could save patients $30,000 or more.

Do I need special insurance for medical procedures abroad?

Yes. Standard health insurance and travel insurance generally exclude planned medical procedures. Medical tourists should obtain specialized complications insurance, while health tourists usually only need regular travel coverage unless engaging in extreme activities.

How does international hospital accreditation work?

JCI (Joint Commission International) accreditation is the gold standard for hospitals worldwide. It evaluates over 1,200 standards, including patient safety, infection control, staff credentials, and quality outcomes. Currently, Colombia has six JCI-accredited hospitals, while Costa Rica and Panama each have two.

Will language barriers be a problem at medical centers abroad?

Major international medical facilities have English-speaking staff, and many doctors in Colombia, Panama, and Costa Rica trained in U.S. medical schools. Professional medical tourism facilitators can also arrange translation services when needed.

Can medical tourists bring companions during treatment?

Yes. Most facilities welcome companions and may offer special rates for accompanying family members. Companions can enjoy wellness activities while the patient undergoes treatment, making destinations in Latin America ideal for combined trips.