Medical Travel

Important

Although the Global Medical Book is totally unique, its ease of use may seem very familiar, as it is similar to that of internationally recognised social networking websites like Facebook and MySpace. Its friendly appeal is most evident in its design, which allows for unrestricted access to unbiased service provider information, client testimonials and reviews.

This new online service has been created to cater for the needs of the long suffering patient, who in their own country may be expected to pay vast sums of money for routine or even life-saving medical treatment and surgery. Many would-be medical patients have now realized that they can receive similar and sometimes superior care and treatment at a much lower cost by traveling abroad.

But for many it is not just about saving money. The priority is about waiting times. Typically, in many western countries the waiting time for a hip or knee replacement is many months, whereas the same operation can be carried out in Asia within days.

What is also becoming apparent to many people seeking medical treatment abroad is the professionalism of the doctors and specialists and the cleanliness of the hospitals.

The Global Medical Book is the first free directory of its kind, and is designed specifically to provide valuable information to people about the options of medical treatment abroad, and raise the profile of hospitals that can provide the patient with the treatment and care they need. Hospitals are encouraged to create and add their profiles to the Global Medical Book so potential patients can evaluate the services they offer and make an informed decision.

Hospitals that are invited to participate on the Global Medical Book website can also include details about their specialist doctors, dentists and consultants. The contact details of hospitals and patients are readily available to both parties, which makes it convenient for hospitals to contact potential patients, and for individuals to request quotes from several hospitals.

The Global Medical Book also provides for the inclusion of medical tourism operators, who are seen to play a vital role in the overall treatment and recovery package by organizing the patient's travel and accommodation requirements. Patients traveling abroad for medical treatment need accommodation close to the hospital of their choice and quite often require a few quiet and relaxing days after their treatment.

Statistics indicate that most people seeking medical treatment abroad tend to combine their visit with a planned vacation, which also helps to make the occasion a more pleasurable and memorable experience.

Statistics indicate that the medical tourism industry is growing at a rapid rate with current revenues said to be more than $40 billion worldwide. With a determined and combined effort from the healthcare sector, hospitality organizations and relevant government agencies, many experts predict growth could see the industry rise to $100 billion by 2012.

Anyone in need of medical treatment, hospitals that can provide the necessary services, tourist operators and travel agents should all take note. The Global Medical Book has arrived.