Medical tourism on the rise

7-Aug-2007

More people than ever before are travelling overseas to seek medical and dental treatment abroad, it has been revealed.

While the trend initially started among dental patients, a growing number of patients are opting to have cosmetic surgery abroad, experts have said.

Debi Robinson, one such patient from Middlesbrough, told the BBC that she paid £2,500 to have loose skin removed from her arms and stomach area in Europe which, even with the cost of accommodation and flights, meant that she paid less than if she'd undergone the same procedure in the UK.

"The difference in price was huge," she revealed. "I would have to have saved up for ages to get it done in Britain.

"In Budapest, I was able to have the surgery and stay on for a short holiday - for less money."

There are many excellent surgeons operating in Europe but consumers are advised to check the professional credentials of their intended surgeon before booking treatment.

Some will have trained in the UK, in which case they will be listed on the General Medical Council's register. Alternatively, patients are advised to find out the relevant associations in the country in question and check that their surgeon is accredited.