Medical Tourism Risks
February 9, 2007 by peter
Filed under Problems, Risks and Safety
The risks come mainly in the form of environmental factors; not poor medical standards. Places like India or Thailand have different infectious diseases than home nations such as the US, Canada, UK. Exposure to these can be a hazard to anyone in an already weakened position. Gastrointestinal diseases (amoebic dysentery, bacteria) can seriously slow progress. Other infections causing concern include mosquito transmitted diseases, influenza and TB.
That said, because diseases are more commonplace in these locations, doctors appear to be more open to the possibility of any disease (including HIV, TB, and typhoid) and are often better able to cope.
Insurance is also an issue. You might not be covered by insurance or be able to seek compensation for malpractice lawsuits. Although it should be noted that malpractice insurance has always been a considerable portions of the cost in the west.
Traveling soon after surgery can also create complications. As can long flights – not recommended for anyone with heart (thrombosis) or breathing related problems.
Certain holiday activities and sports (e.g. scuba diving) are only suitable for certain patients and procedures.
For those undergoing any kind of cosmetic surgery it must be remembered that scars will be darker and more noticeable if they sunburn while healing.
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