Fast Company magazine reports that in 2007 750,000 people traveled from the U.S. to other countries for medical care. The trend, called “medical tourism” continues to grow. They report that, according to Deloitte Consulting, that number will soar to 13 million. Why? Because of the staggering difference in the price of procedures ranging from knee replacement to heart bypass. The same procedure can be performed by Western-trained doctors at Western-style hospitals in places like India, Thailand, Costa Rica, and elsewhere at a fraction of the price for the same procedure here.
For employers who carry self-funded plans or for individuals who lack major medical coverage, medical tourism is immensely attractive.
Read more about medical tourism here. If you’re interested in a limited benefit plan that includes an option for medical tourism, contact AC Forrest.