Medical tourism or Health Tourism is the term used for travellers who go to another country for medical treatment. This can be for various reasons, such as lower costs, shorter waiting lists, better quality of care, availability of procedures, legality of procedures, or cultural understanding123. Medical tourism is an emerging global trend, one that has already taken root in Canada, but the future is still unclear2. In this article, we will explore some of the benefits of medical tourism for Canadians and how it can be a viable option for some healthcare needs.
Medical Tourism Can Guarantee Lower Costs
One of the main reasons why Canadians may choose to travel abroad for medical treatment is affordability. Healthcare costs in Canada are rising, and provincial health insurance plans or private insurance companies may not cover some procedures. For example, cosmetic surgery, dental implants, fertility treatments, and bariatric surgery are some of the services that Canadians may have to pay out of pocket or seek alternative funding sources2. By going to another country, Canadians may be able to save up to 80% of the cost of the same procedure in Canada 3. This can make a significant difference for people who are struggling with financial constraints or who want to avoid long-term debt.
Shorter Waiting Lists
Another benefit of medical tourism is that it can reduce the waiting time for certain procedures that have long wait lists in Canada. For instance, hip and knee replacements, cataract surgery, and cardiac bypass surgery are some of the surgeries that have wait times of several months or even years in Canada2. These wait times can affect the quality of life and health outcomes of patients who need urgent care. By travelling to another country, Canadians may be able to access these procedures within weeks or days, depending on the availability and capacity of the foreign healthcare system3. This can improve the patient’s satisfaction and recovery, as well as reduce the burden on the Canadian healthcare system.
Health Tourism and Quality of Care
A third benefit of medical tourism is that it can offer Canadians access to high-quality medical care that may not be available or accessible in Canada. Some countries have advanced medical technology, equipment, and facilities that can provide better diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for patients3. For example, some countries have specialized centres for organ transplants, neurologic therapies, cancer treatments, and stem cell therapies that may not be widely available or approved in Canada1 2. Moreover, some countries have higher standards of accreditation, regulation, and infection control for their healthcare facilities and providers, which can ensure patient safety and quality of care1. Additionally, some countries have cultural or linguistic similarities with Canada, which can facilitate communication and understanding between the patient and the medical team3.
Conclusion
Medical tourism can be a beneficial option for Canadians who are looking for affordable, timely, and high-quality medical care that may not be available or accessible in Canada. However, medical tourism also involves some risks and challenges, such as legal issues, ethical concerns, complications, and post-operative care. Therefore, Canadians who are considering medical tourism should do their research, consult their doctor, and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Medical tourism is not a substitute for the Canadian healthcare system but rather a complement that can offer more choices and opportunities for patients who need medical care.
