Choice of Country for Eye Surgery Abroad


The most common eye procedures, such as laser eye surgery are commonly performed in many developed and developing countries.  Do not be put off by developing countries.  Although distance may be an issue, India for example is now recognised as a global health destination offering some of the very best medical treatment available worldwide.  People are travelling to India for treatment, from across the globe.  European countries are only a few hours away and offer excellent treatment at very competitive prices compared with the UK.  People regularly travel for eye treatments to countries such as Budapest, Belgium and Poland.  When deciding on which country to travel to, you may wish to consider the following factors: 

Cost of Treatment

Countries vary quite considerably, in terms of the cost of treatment.  Find out how much treatment costs in different countries.

Expertise

Countries vary in terms of their specialty.  Enquire whether your chosen destination, actually offers the treatment you require and then check the reputation and expertise of particular clinics.  Some countries invest more time, research and resources in to particular medical fields.  You may be treated at a hospital, small clinic or in a private practice.

Cost of Travelling

Despite the high cost of flights to exotic places such as Malaysia, considerable savings can be made when comparing the cost of surgery alone, in the UK.  Compare flights to European countries with those further away.  Particular times of the year will be popular with tourists and flight costs may be higher at these times.  Find out when the country’s high season is, to enable you to book an appointment perhaps when the weather is moderate so that you can save some money on flight expenses.

Aftercare

Check whether after the treatment, you will stay in the clinic or be discharged.  Some clinics will take you to your hotel.  Aftercare may vary from country to country.

Language

You may feel uncomfortable spending a significant amount of time or being treated in a country where they do not speak fluent English.  Some clinics may hire translators.  Remember that you may need to spend quite a lot of time in the country and may even mix with the locals.  If you speak any other languages, this may help you decide which country to choose. 

Living Costs & Lifestyle

Compare the price of meals, travelling and accommodation.  Travelling may be difficult while you are recovering so find out how people get around.  You may need to follow a certain style of living whilst you are in the country, so ensure you feel comfortable with this.  Compare and prepare for the chosen countries culture and customs such as tipping.  There may also be religions customs that can affect your stay.

Local Currency

Although you will probably take some local currency with you.  Find out about travellers cheques and credit card facilities including the use of local ATM’s.


Clothing

Find out what clothing will be appropriate to wear in the country, considering weather and religious/cultural dress.

Risks

You may wish to consider your personal safety in the country by checking the Foreign Office website for details of any risks.

Water

Check if you can drink local water.

Vaccinations

Check if there are necessary vaccinations and when you should be vaccinated as well as how long the vaccinations last

Tablets / Medication

You may need to take certain medications such as malaria tablets before during and after your trip abroad.  These will safeguard you from disease and illness.  Seek advice from your GP or pharmacist.

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