The NHS waiting list is currently running at 7,500,000 patients waiting for their treatments. While not all waits are 1 year long, if you are the one waiting to be treated, even a 3 month wait can be a test of your patience.
This article is about the current travel patterns of patients from UK leaving to get treated somewhere else. Not everyone knows about the options and affordability of getting healed – right now in excellent health care facilities. Some information you might find useful on the topic of British patients travelling outside the UK for health care.
Here are some of the most common treatments that people from the UK travel abroad for:
- Cosmetic Surgery: This remains a popular choice, with procedures like breast augmentation, facelifts, liposuction, and rhinoplasty being sought after. Cost savings are often a major factor.
- Dental Treatments: From implants and crowns to veneers and whitening, dental work is a significant driver of medical tourism. The often high costs of private dental care in the UK push people to seek alternatives.
- Fertility Treatments: IVF, egg freezing, and donor programs are commonly sought abroad due to factors like cost, availability, and waiting times in the UK.
- Weight Loss Surgery: Bariatric procedures like gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy are popular, with some patients seeking faster access or more affordable options.
- Orthopedic Procedures: Hip and knee replacements, as well as other joint surgeries, are sometimes sought abroad to potentially reduce waiting times or access specific techniques.
- Cardiac Surgery: While complex, some individuals travel for heart procedures like bypass surgery or valve replacements, often seeking cost savings or specialized care.
- Hair Transplant Surgery: This has become increasingly popular, with Georgia being a major destination due to its expertise and competitive pricing.
- Eye Surgery: Procedures like LASIK or cataract surgery might be sought abroad for cost reasons or access to specific technologies.
- Cancer Treatment: In some cases, patients may travel for alternative cancer therapies or clinical trials not readily available in the UK.
- Stem Cell Therapy: While still controversial, some patients seek stem cell treatments abroad for various conditions, though it’s important to be cautious and research thoroughly.
- Ayurveda and Wellness: Prevention as they say is better than cure. Many who are in good health right now, travel for Ayurveda and wellness treatments for one reason alone – to stay healthy. The two leading destinations offering a variety of treatments in this area are – India and Thailand. Both have a wide spectrum of offerings – from budget options to high-end luxury retreats.
Important Notes:
- Reasons for travel vary: Cost is a major factor, but other reasons include shorter waiting times, access to specialized treatments, and the desire to combine treatment with a holiday.
- Risks exist: It’s crucial to research thoroughly, choose reputable clinics, and be aware of potential risks like complications, language barriers, and follow-up care.
- Quality varies: Not all overseas facilities meet the same standards as in the UK. Accreditation and patient reviews can help assess quality.