How To Avoid Medical Tourism Scams

There’s no doubt about it, medical tourism is a growing industry. In fact, it’s now a $20 billion dollar industry. With the high costs of medical care, especially in the United States, many people are traveling to other countries for their medical procedures. However, there are many medical tourism scams, so it’s best to be aware of them so they don’t happen to you.

1. Be Aware Of Cosmetic Surgery Garage Clinics In Brazil

If you are having surgery that requires anesthesia in Brazil, proceed with caution. There have been many medical tourism scams and botch jobs in Brazil. One reason for this is that there are many garage clinics that are non-JCI-accredited. Make sure you visit an accredited hospital or clinic if you are having surgery there. Always check your surgeon’s qualifications. Also, make sure you are provided with testimonials and before and after pictures by the surgeon.

2. Steer Clear Of Travel Agents That Facilitate Medical Tourism

When it comes to your medical care, the best deals don’t always translate to the best care. You should talk to the medical and health care professionals directly to make the best decision for your care. Once you make your decision on the provider you want, then use a travel agent to plan your vacation, but don’t leave the medical care decisions up to them.

3. Don’t Buy Cannabis Seeds In Amsterdam

Many people try to bring back medicinal cannabis seeds from Amsterdam, but be aware. It is illegal to bring them back into the United States, Canada, and the UK.  Customs officials that see you have visited Amsterdam even emphasize the word seeds when asking if you brought illegal things into the country. If you are in a state that allows a grower’s license, it is much smarter to order cannabis seeds to your country than to try to fly with them.

4. Be Wary Of Medical Tourism Scams In Colombia

When it comes to medical tourism, Columbia has a bad reputation, and there is good reason for that. Customer service is almost nonexistent. For example, the head of the International Patient Center has become well-known for not answering emails and missing meetings with International visitors. The number one complaint from clients trying to research medical care in Colombia is a lack of response to their emails from hospitals and clinics. Many of the clinics and hospitals aren’t accredited. If Colombia is not investing in the first level of their medical care, it makes you wonder how much they are investing in the safety of their procedures.

5. Stay Away From Counterfeit Botox Injections

Many of the cheap Botox® injections that you see advertised, are actually counterfeit. Several people have contracted botulism poisoning and became paralyzed upon having the procedure done using bottles that were clearly marked as being “not for human use.” Only have your treatment done by a certified dermatologist and, before your procedure, ask to see the bottle first so that you can see for yourself that they are using the real thing.

Do your research just as you would at home, before planning any type of medical procedure, and you should be able to avoid the medical tourism scams that are happening.

photo credit: NEC Corporation of America via photopin cc