Despite lower costs, shorter waiting times, and access to services not available in Australia, Australians need to be careful, Smartraveller.gov.au warns.
Having a medical procedure overseas comes with extra risks, it says. Standards of care, infection control and legal protections can be very different in other countries.
If something goes wrong, you could face serious health problems, extra costs, and trouble getting follow-up care.
Almost half of Australians have travelled or would consider travelling overseas for a medical procedure, according to travel insurance research by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the Insurance Council of Australia.
Medical tourism can include cosmetic surgery, dental procedures, fertility treatment, eye surgery, weight loss surgery and other elective or specialist medical treatments.
Some people combine their treatment with a holiday but Smarttraveller urges those tempted to get reliable, official information before booking a procedure overseas.
Some people combine their treatment with a holiday but Smarttraveller urges those tempted to get reliable, official information before booking a procedure overseas.
You should confirm the credentials and accreditation of your surgeon or healthcare provider, check the reputation of the clinic or hospital and understand your legal rights if something goes wrong.
Image: Arindam Paul, Scop.io
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