Let\’s Visit Asia

Medical Tourism in Asia on the Rise

by Ruth on April 12th, 2006

There is a new breed of travellers headed to Asia, and according to estimates, they are spending more than double of what normal tourists and holidaymakers do. Instead of touring the cities or sunbathing on the beach, people are flocking for a different reason: medical tourism. From executive health checks to gene therapy, to liposuction and other cosmetic options, more and more are becoming lured by the low-cost, high-quality healthcare in Asia, particularly in Thailand, Singapore, India, South Korea and Malaysia.

Medical tourism is growing rapidly, far outstripping the 4 to 6 per cent growth in general travel bookings predicted for 2006, with the number of medical tourist visits to many countries swelling by 20 to 30 per cent a year. The industry in Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and India, currently worth around half a billion dollars a year in Asia, is projected to generate more than US$4.4 billion by 2012.

For some, it’s not just a matter of cutting costs. In Asia, one can have “premium” services which may not be available back home such as titanium dental implants, or luxurious five-star post-operative tratment such as yoga, neuropathy and ancient herbal remedies. Try getting that from your medical insurance provided back home!

But, as always, do your research and make sure you’re having your procedures done in reputable institutions. The Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia seems to provide a good primer for anyone considering going to Asia for medical treatment.

Technorati Tags: medical tourism, health, surgery, cosmetic surgery, asian hospitals

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POSTED IN: Asian Spas/Wellness Retreats, General : Asia Travel