The first thing to be sure of is your own suitability for travel. Make sure you can travel safely, both to your destination and home again. If you have any uncertainty about your health consult a doctor about the risks associated with long-distance travel. If travel is a viable option you will need to consider all of the factors associated with travelling for treatment.

Distance and convenience

Long flights can be exhausting even in the best of health. Look for flights with few or easy connections. Consider whether you will have to repeat the journey one or more times before the treatment is completed. Jet lag can leave you tired and susceptible to minor ailments. Give yourself time to recover from the stresses of travel before starting any course of treatment. Recovery times vary enormously from one procedure to another and from patient to patient. The risks of flying, such as deep vain thrombosis, can be exacerbated by an operation. Make sure you have allowed a long enough recovery time before travelling home.

Language

The ability to communicate successfully with those around you can improve your experience of medical care. Many countries have a wide range of medical professionals trained in facilities around the world. It is vital that your medical care can be explained to you clearly, with all appropriate warnings and that you are fully aware of the nature of forms of consent and documentation that you may be required to sign before procedures are carried out.

Red tape

One of the last things you need when travelling for treatment is a problem with immigration authorities. Make sure all your documentation is in order and that the purpose of your visit is clearly known. Some destinations have special facilities for Medical Tourists: Both Thailand and Singapore have visa extension facilities available to ensure hospitals have time to complete treatments and allow patients the necessary period for recuperation before returning home.

Local health

Vaccinations and travel shots are recommended or required for many destinations around the world. Make sure that you have the appropriate shots for the destination you chose and that they will not conflict in any way with the treatment you require or any existing medical condition that you have.

While the medical facility you choose may have the highest standards of hygiene, make sure that any additional accommodation you book will be an appropriate environment for recovery.

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This information is intended as a guide only. Always consult with a trusted qualified medical practitioner before considering any potential treatment.