A very interesting op-ed piece appears in today's New York Times about the pros and cons of U.S. patients going overseas to receive medical care. The authors note that there is some reason to believe that the care received in many hospitals in other countries is at least equal to that received here. Also, patients usually receive care at much lower cost, which is usually the point of seeking overseas care to begin with. However, the authors smartly note some risks. Patients may be at far greater risk should complications arise. If they find themselves victims of medical malpractice they may be out-0f-luck in seeking compensation for the harms and losses inflicted by a foreign physician.
To read the full article, click here.
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For whatever it's worth, my wife and I are enthusiastic supporters of using medical services overseas.
ReplyDeleteWe are both in our 60's and self employed. In addition my wife has a number of health conditions which means our insurance premiums are high and our coverage low.
Currently we pay over $900 a month for a catastrophic health care plan with Blue Shield that has an $8000 deductible per year.
With such a high deductible we end up paying out of pocket for every doctor visit and every prescription.
4 years ago, after watching the "60 minutes" episode on medical tourism in Thailand we decided to give it a try.
We were not disappointed.
Private hospitals that cater to foreigners are like 5 star hotels. They have equipment that I've never even seen in the US. The doctors seem very capable. The one I see actually immigrated back to Thailand from the US.
And the cost....on average about 1/10 the cost you would expect to pay for the same procedure in the US. For example, on my last trip in November I had an operation for a condition called dysphagia. The cost of the procedure in the US is $2500. The procedure in Thailand...$100 (My doctor performed the operation at a public hospital)
One problem...Blue Shield will not accept bills from all Thai hospitals. Check with your insurance company before you check into a Thai hospital.
Also, don't expect to sue for millions if you are unhappy with your care. This isn't the US.
On the other hand, if you need a heart bypass, you can call and Thai hospital today and get in as soon as your plane lands in Bangkok