Medical Tourism – A Guide To Costa Rica
When you mention the term Medical Tourism to most people, they wonder why they would ever travel abroad for treatment, but when you start to mention the various benefits there are to be had, they start to wonder why they haven’t been doing it all along.
A recent World Health Organization (WHO) report rated Costa Rica’s health system above that of the USA(*). A high level of professional training and an impressive public healthcare system reflectt in the private care available to Medical Tourists. Once known mainly for its acclaimed promotion of ecotourism, Costa Rica is now gaining a reputation for cosmetic and dental procedures.
A study at the University of Costa Rica showed that almost 14% of visitors to the country come in search of its medical expertise. The well-educated, tech-savvy population is gaining Costa Rica the reputation of a Central American Singapore, with industry analysts putting it in the top three offshore development destinations for American companies along with China and India.
One of the most interesting aspects of the Medical Tourism industry in Costa Rica is in the area of recuperation facilities. While other destinations offer high quality hotels and accommodation, Costa Rica goes a bit further. Once a treatment has been completed, patients are able to check into dedicated recuperation centres. These centres have excellent accommodation and relaxation facilities but also sport qualified nurses and medical workers to help monitor their clients condition and keep doctors updated on the recovery progress.
Most doctors in Costa Rica spend much of their time maintaining the countries excellent public healthcare system. Revenue from the treatment of foreign paients enables local medical specialists to continue devoting their resources to the local healthcare. Benefits are mutual, with skills passing between the two sectors. In addition to dental and cosmetic practice the Medical Tourism boom is enabling corrective eye surgery clinics to open and encourage hospitals - such as CIMA Hospital San Jose - to seek Joint Commission International certification.
Many of Costa Rica’s medical professionals are American Medical Board certified, guaranteeing training on a par with their US counterparts. The Health Ministry has identified accreditation as an important part of driving quality in healthcare upwards and the CIMA Hospital in San Jose has already received its accreditation. In addition to licensing by the Health Ministry, a system of professional societies oversees the membership of a number of specialties. Medical doctors, surgeons, and dentists all have dedicated societies that promote new skills and the maintenance of standards throughout their professions.
So, when next you start thinking about getting medical treatment, and you’re looking for a world renowned healthcare system, a trip to Costa Rica should be high on your list of considerations.
To find out more please visit RevaHealth.com.
(*) The World Health Report 200 - Health Systems: Improving Performance.
Copyright 2007 RevaHealth.com
Caelen King is founder and CEO of RevaHealth.com