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Why Patients Are Turning to Medical Tourism

Statistics, Benefits, and Risks

Planning Ahead

Frequently asked questions.

Medical tourism is a term that refers to traveling to another country to get a medical or dental procedure. In some instances, medical tourists travel abroad seeking alternative treatments that are not approved in the United States.

Medical tourism is successful for millions of people each year, and it is on the rise for a variety of reasons, including increasing healthcare costs in the United States, lack of health insurance, specialist-driven procedures, high-quality facilities, and the opportunity to travel before or after a medical procedure.

According to a New York Times article from January 2021, pent-up demand for nonessential surgeries, as well as the fact that many Americans lost their health insurance during the coronavirus pandemic led to a surge in medical tourism once other countries re-opened.

However, there are specific risks that come with traveling overseas for surgery. If you're thinking of pursuing a medical procedure in another country, here's what to know about the benefits and the risks.

Medical Tourism Benefits

The most common procedures Americans go abroad for include dental care, cosmetic procedures , fertility treatments, organ transplants , and cancer treatment.

This is not to be confused with having an unplanned procedure in a foreign country due to an unexpected illness or injury.

Among the reasons a person might choose to go abroad for a medical procedure are:

Lower Costs

Medical tourists can save anywhere from 25% to 90% in medical bills, depending on the procedure they get and the country they travel to. There are several factors that play into this:

• The cost of diagnostic testing and medications is particularly expensive in the United States.
• The cost of pre- and post-procedure labor is often dramatically lower overseas. This includes labor costs for nurses , aides, surgeons, pharmacists, physical therapists , and more.
• High cost of malpractice insurance—the insurance that protects medical professionals against lawsuits—in the United States.
• Hospital stays cost far less in many overseas countries compared to the United States. In other words, quality care, hospital meals, and rehabilitation are far more affordable abroad for many people.

For someone who doesn't have insurance , or someone having a procedure that is not covered by insurance , the difference can be enormous.

Popular Countries for Medical Tourism

Dominican Republic

South Korea

Culture and Language

Many immigrants prefer to have treatments and procedures done in their country of origin—a sensible decision, considering just how much language barriers alone can affect the quality of their care.

Furthermore, at least 25% of immigrants and noncitizen residents in the United States are uninsured, compared to 9% of American citizens. Children with at least one noncitizen parent are also more likely to be uninsured.

Practicalities aside, many people choose to have their procedure done in their country of origin simply because it allows them to be close to family, friends, and caretakers who can assist them through their recovery .

Insurance Incentives

Some insurance companies have started promoting medical tourism. The reason behind this is simple: savings for the insured means savings for the insurance provider and vice versa.

Several insurance providers, including Aetna have programs specifically geared at promoting safe medical tourism. Some insurance providers even offer financial incentives for medical tourism, like discounts on medical bills .

That said, many insurance companies will not pay for surgery performed outside of the country unless it is an emergency.

Luxury and Privacy

Medical tourism is a lucrative business for many countries, and much of the money brought in by medical tourists is reinvested into the local economy and health infrastructure.

The effect of this is apparent in the spa-like luxury that some foreign hospitals offer, providing medical tourists the opportunity to be pampered during their stay for a fraction of the cost they would pay at home.

Some facilities offer hospital rooms that are more like a hotel suite than a traditional hospital room. Other hospitals offer one-on-one private nursing care, which is far more generous and attentive than the staffing ratios that most hospitals allow.

Medical tourists who seek that added layer of privacy can find it abroad. Many can return home from their "vacation" without anyone knowing they had a procedure at all.

Vacation in a Foreign Country

Medical tourists often take advantage of their stay in a foreign country to travel for pleasure by scheduling a vacation before or after their procedure.

This is an especially inexpensive way to travel to a foreign country, especially if their insurance provider is paying for the flight and the cost of staying is low. 

While it seems logical to recover on a beach or in a chalet by the mountains, keep in mind that it's important not to jeopardize your recovery.

Swimming isn't recommended until your incisions are completely closed. You may not feel up to doing much more than napping in the days following your procedure, either.

Don't let your vacation disrupt your recovery. Any time you have a procedure done, especially a surgery, it's important to listen to your body, take your medications as directed, and follow your doctor's recommendations closely.

Bypassing Rules and Regulations

Some travelers seek surgery abroad to bypass rules that are set in place by their own government, insurance company, or hospital. These rules are typically in place to protect the patient from harm, so getting around them isn't always the best idea.

For example, a patient may be told that their weight is too low to qualify for weight loss surgery . A surgeon in a foreign country may have a different standard for who qualifies for weight loss surgery, so the patient may qualify overseas for the procedure they want.

Talented Surgeons

Surgeons in certain countries are known for their talent in a specific area of surgery. For example, Brazilian surgeons are often touted for their strong plastic surgery skills .

Whereas in the United States, insurance companies might only cover cosmetic procedures if it is medically necessary, cosmetic surgery is often free or low-cost in Brazil's public hospitals—giving cosmetic surgeons there ample practice.

Thailand is reported to be the primary medical tourism destination for individuals seeking gender reassignment . It is often easier to qualify for surgery and the cost is significantly reduced. Surgeons are performing the procedures frequently, and as a result, many have become quite specialized in them.

It is often surprising to many medical tourists that their physician was trained in the United States. Not all physicians are, of course, but a surprisingly high percentage of them working in surgery abroad are trained in English-speaking medical schools and residency programs and then return to their home country. These physicians often speak multiple languages and may be board certified in their home country and a foreign country, such as the United States.

Medical tourism isn’t limited to countries outside of the United States, either. Many people travel to the United States for medical care due to the country's cutting-edge technology, prescription medication supply, and the general safety of healthcare.

Medical Tourism Risks

The financial and practical benefits of medical tourism are well known, and you may even know someone who had a great experience. Nonetheless, the downsides of medical tourism can be just as great if not greater. Sometimes, they can even be deadly.

If you are considering a trip abroad for your procedure, you should know that medical tourism isn't entirely without obstacle and risks. These include:

Poorly Trained Surgeons

In any country—the United States included—there will be good surgeons and bad. And just as there are great surgeons abroad, there are also some surgeons who are less talented, less trained, and less experienced.

Regardless of what procedure you are getting or where, you should always do some preliminary research into the surgeon or physician who will be treating you as well as the hospital you will be treated at.

In the United States, it is fairly easy to obtain information about malpractice lawsuits , sanctions by medical boards, and other disciplinary actions against a physician.

Performing this research from afar can be challenging, especially if you don't speak the local language. Yet countless people take the risk anyway, without knowing whether the physicians who will treat them are reputable.

A physician should be trained in the specific area of medicine that is appropriate for your procedure. For example, you should not be having plastic surgery from a surgeon who was trained to be a heart doctor. It isn’t good enough to be a physician, the physician must be trained in the specialty .

Prior to agreeing to surgery, you should also know your surgeon’s credentials : where they studied, where they trained, and in what specialty(s) they are board-certified. Do not rely on testimonials from previous patients; these are easily made up for a website and even if they are correct, one good surgery doesn’t mean they will all be successful.

Quality of Staff

Nurses are a very important part of healthcare, and the care they provide can mean the difference between a great outcome and a terrible one.

A well-trained nurse can identify a potential problem and fix it before it truly becomes an issue. A poorly trained nurse may not identify a problem until it is too late. The quality of the nursing staff will have a direct impact on your care.

Once again, it's important to research the hospital staff where you will be having your procedure done. Read the reviews but don't trust them blindly. If you can, seek out a recommendation from someone who can vouch for the medical staff where you will be going.

Quality of the Facility

While researching healthcare facilities for your procedure, you want to learn not just about the quality of the facilities themselves, but about the country's healthcare system as a whole.

In some countries, there is a marked distinction between public hospitals and private hospitals. In Turkey, for example, private hospitals are considered on-par with hospitals in the states, while many locals will advise you to steer clear of public hospitals if you can.

You will also want to seek out facilities that are internationally accredited. In the United States, the Joint Commission evaluates hospitals and certifies those that provide safe, quality care. The international division does the same for hospitals outside the United States.

Once you have a few options for potential facilities, you can start to investigate specifics. For one, you should find as many pictures and reviews of the facility as you can. Ask yourself whether the facility is state of the art or whether it seems dirty and outdated.

You will also need to find out if the facility has ICU level care available, in case something goes wrong. If not, there should be a major hospital nearby so that you can be transferred quickly.

To learn more about a healthcare facility, consider joining expat groups on social media for the city or country you will be traveling to. Ask the group for recommendations, or inquire about any positive or negative experiences they may have had at a particular facility.

Flying Home After Surgery

Any surgery comes with risks, including infection and blood clots . Flying home increases the risk of blood clots, especially on long-haul flights that are longer than four hours.

Try to avoid flying home in the days immediately after surgery; waiting a week will decrease the chances of developing a blood clot or another serious complication during the flight.

For longer flights, plan on getting up and walking up and down the aisles each hour to improve blood flow in your legs. You might also benefit from wearing compression socks with your doctor's approval.

If you are taking blood thinners or are at-risk of blood clots , be sure to talk to your doctor about how you can reduce your risk of blood clots after your procedure and while traveling.

Furthermore, you should know the symptoms of blood clots and stay alert.

Unplanned Illness

Any time you travel abroad, you run the risk of catching an illness that you have never been exposed to or that your body is not prepared to fight off. This is especially a concern when spending time in a foreign hospital.

If you have a sensitive stomach, you may also want to think long and hard about having surgery abroad. The food is often very different in foreign hospitals, and in some areas, there is a risk that even the water will be upsetting to your body.

Having diarrhea or postoperative nausea and vomiting makes for a miserable recovery experience, especially if you do not have a friend or family member nearby who can help you through it.

Before you travel abroad, check with your doctor to see if you need any vaccines to travel to your destination or if there are any foreign illnesses you should be aware of. Picking up an illness abroad, particularly after your surgery, can potentially be life-threatening.

Language Barriers

If you are having surgery in a country where English is not the primary language, you will need to make preparations in order to be able to communicate with the staff.

You may be pleasantly surprised to learn that the staff speaks your primary language well. If not, then you will need to consider how you will make your wishes and needs known to the surgeon, the staff, and others you will meet.

Whether you are at home or abroad, remember to speak up and advocate for yourself to make sure your needs are met. If you don't speak the local language, download a language translation app on your smartphone and don't hesitate to use it to communicate your needs. Hiring a translator is another option.

A Word About Transplant Tourism

Transplant tourism is one area of medical tourism that is strongly discouraged by organ and tissue transplant professionals in multiple countries. Most international transplants are considered “black market” surgeries that are not only poor in quality, but ethically and morally wrong.

China, for example, the country that is believed to perform more international kidney transplants than any other country, is widely believed to take organs from political prisoners after their execution.

In India, living donors are often promised large sums of money for their kidney donation, only to find out they have been scammed and never receive payment. Selling an organ in India is illegal, as it is in most areas of the world, so there is little recourse for the donor.

Then there is the final outcome: how well the organ works after the surgery is complete. With black market transplants, less care is often taken with matching the donor and recipient, which leads to high levels of rejection and a greater risk of death. Furthermore, the new organ may not have been screened for diseases such as cytomegalovirus , tuberculosis , hepatitis B , and hepatitis C . It is often the new disease that leads to death, rather than the organ rejection itself.

Finally, transplant surgeons are often reluctant to care for a patient who intentionally circumvented the donor process in the United States and received their transplant from an unknown physician.

It is important to arrange your follow-up care prior to leaving your home country.

Many physicians and surgeons are hesitant to take care of a patient who received care outside the country, as they are often unfamiliar with medical tourism and have concerns about the quality of care overseas.

Arranging for follow-up care before you leave will make it easier to transition to care at home without the stress of trying to find a physician after surgery .

Just be sure to inform your follow-up care physician where you are having your procedure done. After you return, they will also want to know what prescription medications you were given, if any.

What are popular countries for medical tourism? 

Mexico, India, Costa Rica, Turkey, Singapore, Canada, and Thailand are among the many countries that are popular for medical tourism.

How safe is medical tourism?

Medical tourism is generally considered safe, but it's critical to research the quality of care, physician training, and surgical specialties of each country. There are several medical tourism organizations that specialize in evaluating popular destinations for this purpose.

What countries have free healthcare? 

Countries with free healthcare include England, Canada, Thailand, Mexico, India, Sweden, South Korea, Israel, and many others.

A Word From Verywell

If you are considering medical tourism, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor, and consider working with your insurance provider to arrange a trip that balances financial savings with safety. (Also, before you embark on a trip overseas for your procedure, make sure you are financially prepared for unexpected events and emergencies. Don't go abroad if you don't have enough money to get yourself home in a crisis.)

A medical tourism organization such as Patients Without Borders can help you evaluate the quality and trustworthiness of healthcare in various countries. Making sure a high level of care is readily available will lead to a safer, more relaxing experience.

Centers For Disease Control and Prevention. Medical tourism: Getting medical care in another country .

University of the Incarnate Word. Center for medical tourism research .

Patients Beyond Borders. Facts and figures .

Kaiser Family Foundation. Key facts on health coverage of immigrants .

Paul DP, Barker T, Watts AL, Messinger A, Coustasse A. Insurance companies adapting to trends by adopting medical tourism . Health Care Manag . 2017;36(4):326-333. doi:10.1097/HCM.0000000000000179

Batista BN. State of plastic surgery in Brazil .  Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open . 2017;5(12):e1627. doi:10.1097/GOX.0000000000001627

Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health - Global Health Now. Brazilians' risky right to beauty . Published May 2018.

Chokrungvaranont P, Selvaggi G, Jindarak S, et al. The development of sex reassignment surgery in Thailand: A social perspective .  Sci World J . 2014 Mar;2014(1):1-5. doi:10.1155/2014/182981

The Joint Commission. For consumers .

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Understanding your risk for blood clots with travel .

Hurley R. China harvested organs from political prisoners on substantial scale, says tribunal . BMJ . 2018 Dec;363(1):5250. doi:10.1136/bmj.k5250

Ambagtsheer F, Van Balen L. I'm not Sherlock Holmes: Suspicions, secrecy, and silence of transplant professionals in the human organ trade . Euro J Criminol . 2017;5(12):e1627. doi:10.1177/1477370818825331

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About transplant safety .

By Jennifer Whitlock, RN, MSN, FN Jennifer Whitlock, RN, MSN, FNP-C, is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. She has experience in primary care and hospital medicine.

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What are the top 10 medical tourism destinations in the world in 2023?

According to the American Journal of Medicine, the top 10 destination countries for medical tourism are:

• South Korea
• United States

Medical tourism refers to the practice of individuals traveling to another country to receive medical treatment or undergo medical procedures. It combines the concept of travel with seeking healthcare services, allowing patients to explore new destinations while benefiting from high-quality medical care. Medical tourism encompasses a wide range of treatments, including elective surgeries, specialized procedures, dental treatments, wellness retreats, and more.

The concept of medical tourism has gained tremendous popularity in recent years as people increasingly seek affordable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare options beyond their home countries. It offers an opportunity for patients to receive medical services that may be cost-prohibitive or subject to long waiting times in their own countries. Additionally, medical tourism enables patients to access advanced medical technologies, renowned specialists, and state-of-the-art healthcare facilities available in popular medical tourism destinations worldwide.

B. Growing popularity and significance of medical tourism

Over the past decade, medical tourism has experienced remarkable growth and has become a significant global industry. The increasing demand for medical tourism can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, rising healthcare costs in many developed countries have driven individuals to seek more affordable alternatives abroad without compromising on the quality of care. Moreover, long waiting times for certain medical procedures in countries with national healthcare systems have prompted patients to explore options for expedited treatment overseas.

Furthermore, globalization and advancements in transportation and communication have made it easier for patients to travel internationally for medical purposes. Patients are now able to research and access information about different medical tourism destinations, compare treatment options, and connect with healthcare providers through various online platforms.

The economic impact of medical tourism is substantial, benefiting both the destination countries and patients. Medical tourism stimulates local economies by generating revenue for healthcare facilities, hospitality sectors, transportation services, and other related industries. Additionally, medical tourists contribute to cultural exchange, as they engage with local communities and experience the attractions and amenities of the destination countries.

A. Explanation of the criteria used to determine the top 10 medical tourism destinations

The selection process for identifying the top 10 medical tourism destinations of 2023 involved a comprehensive evaluation of various factors. These factors included:

Healthcare infrastructure: The quality and availability of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialized centers, were considered. Factors such as accreditation, certifications, technological advancements, and infrastructure development were assessed.

Medical expertise and specialists: The presence of highly skilled medical professionals, specialists, and surgeons across a range of medical disciplines played a crucial role in the selection process. The reputation, qualifications, and experience of healthcare providers were considered.

Treatment options and specialties: The diversity and depth of medical treatments and procedures offered in each destination were evaluated. This included assessing the availability of specialized treatments, advanced medical technologies, and innovative procedures.

Affordability and cost-effectiveness: The overall cost of medical treatments, including procedure fees, hospital charges, and associated expenses, were taken into account. Affordability was evaluated in comparison to similar treatments in other countries.

Safety and quality standards: The adherence to international safety standards, infection control measures, patient care protocols, and quality management systems were considered. Accreditation from recognized international organizations was also taken into account.

Travel convenience and support services: Factors such as ease of travel, visa procedures, transportation infrastructure, availability of language interpreters, and support services for international patients were evaluated. Access to accommodations, local amenities, and tourist attractions were also considered.

B. Brief overview of the research process

The research process involved an extensive review of industry reports, healthcare rankings, patient testimonials, and data from reputable sources specializing in medical tourism. Various online platforms, government health agencies, healthcare associations, and travel industry resources were consulted to gather comprehensive and up-to-date information about medical tourism destinations.

Data on healthcare infrastructure, treatment options, medical expertise, affordability, safety records, patient satisfaction, and other relevant parameters were collected and analyzed. The research team applied a rigorous evaluation methodology to ensure objectivity and accuracy in the selection process.

The final list of the top 10 medical tourism destinations for 2023 represents a culmination of the research findings, taking into account the aforementioned criteria and the overall potential of each destination to offer exceptional medical tourism experiences to international patients.

Top 10 Medical Tourism Destinations of 2023

Costa Rica Costa Rica boasts a well-developed healthcare system with a mix of public and private hospitals and clinics. The country is known for its high-quality healthcare services, modern facilities, and skilled medical professionals. Costa Rica has made significant investments in healthcare infrastructure, ensuring access to advanced medical technologies.

Costa Rica excels in various medical specialties, including cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, dentistry, orthopedics, ophthalmology, and fertility treatments. The country is also renowned for its wellness retreats and alternative therapies, such as medical spas and natural healing practices.

Advantages and strengths of choosing Costa Rica for medical tourism Costa Rica offers competitive prices for medical procedures compared to North America and Europe, making it an attractive destination for cost-conscious individuals. The country’s commitment to patient safety, excellent post-operative care, and personalized attention are additional advantages. Furthermore, Costa Rica’s natural beauty and eco-tourism opportunities provide a soothing and rejuvenating environment for recovery.

India India’s healthcare system features a wide network of hospitals, clinics, and specialized centers that offer comprehensive medical services. The country is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, advanced medical technology, and highly skilled healthcare professionals. India has achieved international recognition for its expertise in various medical fields.

India is renowned for its expertise in medical specialties such as cardiac surgery, orthopedics, organ transplants, oncology, and fertility treatments. The country attracts patients seeking affordable yet high-quality medical procedures, including complex surgeries and advanced medical interventions.

Advantages and strengths of choosing India for medical tourism India offers significant cost savings compared to many Western countries, without compromising on quality. Patients benefit from access to world-class facilities, internationally accredited hospitals, and experienced doctors. Additionally, India’s cultural richness, historical sites, and holistic healing traditions make it a compelling destination for medical tourists.

Malaysia Malaysia has established a strong healthcare system that combines public and private sectors. The country offers modern medical facilities, cutting-edge technology, and well-trained healthcare professionals. Malaysia has invested significantly in medical tourism infrastructure to provide world-class services to international patients.

Malaysia specializes in a range of medical treatments, including cardiac surgeries, fertility treatments, cosmetic and plastic surgery, dentistry, and orthopedics. The country’s healthcare providers are known for their expertise, utilizing advanced techniques and adhering to international standards.

Advantages and strengths of choosing Malaysia for medical tourism Malaysia provides affordable medical treatments while maintaining high standards of quality and safety. The country’s competitive pricing, efficient healthcare services, and short waiting times are major advantages. Patients also appreciate Malaysia’s cultural diversity, warm hospitality, and the opportunity to combine their medical trip with a holiday experience.

Mexico Mexico has a robust healthcare system with a combination of public and private healthcare providers. The country has invested in modern medical infrastructure and facilities, including internationally accredited hospitals and specialized clinics. Mexico’s proximity to North America has made it a popular choice for medical tourists from the United States and Canada.

Mexico excels in various medical specialties, including bariatric surgery, cosmetic surgery, dental procedures, fertility treatments, and orthopedics. The country is known for its skilled medical professionals, advanced surgical techniques, and affordable treatment options.

Advantages and strengths of choosing Mexico for medical tourism Mexico offers cost-effective medical treatments compared to its North American counterparts, making it an attractive destination for individuals seeking affordable healthcare solutions. Patients benefit from short waiting times, personalized care, and access to cutting-edge medical technology. Additionally, Mexico’s rich culture, vibrant tourist destinations, and warm climate provide a pleasant backdrop for recovery and relaxation.

Singapore Singapore is globally recognized for its excellent healthcare system, characterized by state-of-the-art medical facilities, advanced technology, and highly skilled healthcare professionals. The country maintains stringent quality standards and has a reputation for providing exceptional medical care.

Singapore excels in various medical specialties, including cardiology, oncology, neurology, ophthalmology, and organ transplantation. The country is renowned for its expertise in complex surgeries, specialized treatments, and advanced medical research.

Advantages and strengths of choosing Singapore for medical tourism Singapore offers world-class medical services with a focus on patient-centric care, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive healthcare solutions. Patients benefit from efficient healthcare processes, high standards of safety, and personalized treatment plans. Moreover, Singapore’s clean and safe environment, multicultural ambiance, and diverse culinary scene make it an appealing destination for medical tourists.

South Korea South Korea boasts a world-class healthcare system, characterized by advanced medical infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and highly skilled medical professionals. The country has gained international recognition for its expertise in medical research and innovation.

South Korea excels in various medical fields, including plastic and cosmetic surgery, dermatology, ophthalmology, dental procedures, and stem cell therapy. The country is at the forefront of medical advancements and offers a wide range of specialized treatments and procedures.

Advantages and strengths of choosing South Korea for medical tourism South Korea’s medical tourism industry is known for its exceptional quality standards, advanced techniques, and personalized care. The country offers a unique combination of medical expertise and advanced cosmetic procedures, attracting patients seeking both medical and aesthetic treatments. Additionally, South Korea’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and renowned hospitality enhance the overall medical tourism experience.

Taiwan Taiwan has a well-developed healthcare system, known for its high-quality medical services, modern infrastructure, and advanced technology. The country has made significant investments in medical research and innovation, ensuring access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies.

Taiwan specializes in various medical specialties, including oncology, cardiovascular procedures, joint replacement surgeries, traditional Chinese medicine, and preventive healthcare. The country combines traditional medical practices with modern treatments to offer comprehensive healthcare solutions.

Advantages and strengths of choosing Taiwan for medical tourism Taiwan is recognized for its patient-centered care, rigorous quality standards, and safety protocols. Patients benefit from the expertise of highly skilled medical professionals, state-of-the-art facilities, and a wide range of treatment options. Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and renowned hospitality further enhance the medical tourism experience.

Thailand Thailand has emerged as a leading destination for medical tourism, offering world-class healthcare services, modern facilities, and internationally accredited hospitals. The country’s healthcare system is known for its efficiency, affordability, and high standards of care.

Thailand excels in various medical fields, including cosmetic and plastic surgery, fertility treatments, cardiac procedures, orthopedics, and wellness retreats. The country is renowned for its skilled medical professionals, use of advanced technologies, and comprehensive healthcare solutions.

Advantages and strengths of choosing Thailand for medical tourism Thailand offers competitive prices for medical treatments without compromising on quality, attracting patients from around the world. Patients benefit from short waiting times, personalized care, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, Thailand’s warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage provide an excellent backdrop for post-treatment recovery and relaxation.

Turkey Turkey has a well-established healthcare system, offering a wide range of medical services and advanced facilities. The country has experienced significant growth in medical tourism, attracting patients with its high-quality healthcare providers and affordable treatment options.

Turkey specializes in various medical fields, including hair transplantation, cosmetic surgery, dental procedures, organ transplantation, and eye surgeries. The country combines medical expertise with a rich cultural heritage, providing patients with a holistic experience.

Advantages and strengths of choosing Turkey for medical tourism Turkey offers competitive pricing for medical treatments, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious individuals. Patients benefit from the expertise of highly skilled medical professionals, advanced technology, and comprehensive healthcare services. Moreover, Turkey’s unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures, historical sites, and natural beauty make it a captivating destination for medical tourists.

United States The United States has a well-developed healthcare system, known for its cutting-edge medical technology, research institutions, and specialized healthcare providers. The country offers a wide range of medical services, catering to diverse needs and medical conditions.

The United States excels in various medical specialties, including cancer treatment, cardiac surgery, neurology, organ transplantation, and advanced diagnostics. The country is at the forefront of medical innovation, providing access to groundbreaking treatments and therapies.

Advantages and strengths of choosing the United States for medical tourism The United States is renowned for its medical expertise, advanced treatments, and specialized healthcare institutions. Patients benefit from the highest standards of care, access to clinical trials, and a multidisciplinary approach to healthcare. However, it is important to note that medical treatments in the United States tend to have higher costs compared to other destinations.

Key considerations for individuals planning medical tourism trips

When planning a medical tourism trip, it is crucial to consider factors such as the reputation of healthcare providers, accreditation of hospitals, cost-effectiveness, safety records, and the availability of post-treatment care. Additionally, individuals should research visa requirements, travel logistics, and insurance coverage before making any decisions.

Future trends and developments in the medical tourism industry

The medical tourism industry is continuously evolving, with new destinations emerging and existing destinations enhancing their services. Future trends may include the integration of telemedicine, advancements in robotic surgeries, personalized healthcare packages, and a focus on wellness and preventive care. Staying informed about these trends can help individuals make informed decisions regarding their medical tourism experiences.

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Medical Tourism: What Countries Have the Best Reputation?

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I imagine many Americans know someone with a stockpile of antibiotics they bought during their last trip to Mexico. (Or is that just me?)

Along with antibiotics, other popular buys include arthritis medication like Humira and diabetes medication like insulin. Unlike in the US, these medications can be bought over the counter—and, most importantly, at a more reasonable price.

I’m not going to go into the state of healthcare in the US. But it might not come as a surprise that Americans are some of the most active medical tourists in the world.

Medical tourism involves traveling to another country or region to obtain cheaper and/or more reliable medical care. (In some cases, travelers might also feel more comfortable returning to a familiar culture and language to receive care.)

According to the CDC , the most common procedures that Americans seek out are cosmetic surgery, dental procedures, fertility treatments, organ transplants, and cancer treatment.

From pharmacies in Tijuana to luxury hospitals in Bangkok , millions of Americans travel each year for reliable care.

But which countries offer the best in cutting-edge medical tourism?

Specialties: Advanced diagnostics, cosmetics, orthopedic, oncology, cardiac, neurosurgery

Few places have a reputation as sterling as Singapore . This nation-state is a world-class zone for finance, technology, economics, and even healthcare.

While medical tourists are going to pay a pretty penny for their procedures, they’ll do so with total confidence and faith in Singapore’s doctors.

That makes Singapore one of the best medical destinations in Asia and the world. Not only are its doctors highly qualified and its facilities modern, but Singapore also specializes in robot-assisted surgery and the latest advances in neurosurgery.

The more complex the problem, the more likely you are to find a solution in Singapore.

Specialties: Cardiovascular, oncology and radiation treatment, fertility treatments, regenerative medicine

Japan goes above and beyond to offer a holistic and relaxing experience with its medical treatments. That’s because medical care is handled differently in Japan (and even in neighboring countries like Korea), with a stronger emphasis placed on atmosphere and calmness .

Tranquil treatment centers aside, Japanese doctors are pulling on the country’s thousands of years of medical practice.

Combined with its approach to technology, that experience translates into cutting-edge care. Similar to Singapore, many Japanese doctors have access to treatment procedures that haven’t been developed elsewhere.

UAE (Dubai & Abu Dhabi)

Specialties : Cosmetics, cardiac, cancer, fertility treatments, oncology, and dermatology

The UAE’s Dubai and Abu Dhabi are some of the most highly sought-after medical destinations in the Middle East and South Asia. This shouldn’t come as a surprise given the country’s emphasis on technology and modern amenities.

Its medical facilities are mostly brand-new and decked out with the latest in medical tech. Similarly, its doctors are some of the best in the world—and they’re attracted to the country for its emphasis on wellness and, more specifically, aesthetics.

Similar to Canada (below), visitors can expect to fork over a pretty penny for their procedures. 

Specialties: Cosmetics, dental care, bariatric surgeries, and orthopedics

I spent almost a year living in a small suburb of Costa Rica’s capital San Jose. Given my landlocked position, I spotted quite a few tourists who weren’t heading to the coasts. Instead, they were flying in just for medical care.

Most people came for dental work and/or cosmetic surgeries. Unsurprisingly, given the country’s focus on tourism, it has looked to boost its medical tourism offerings.

That means there are state-of-the-art facilities around San Jose and beyond —along with a growing number of research facilities.

Specialties : Cardiac, orthopedic, cancer, and cosmetics

Canada is high on the list for medical tourists thanks to its clean environment, developed medical infrastructure, and high quality of its medical facilities.

That shouldn’t come as a total shock given Canada’s comprehensive healthcare system. Canada invests pretty heavily in research and development, meaning it offers some of the most cutting-edge medical procedures on the planet.

While Canada isn’t the cheapest option on this list by a long shot, its facilities and doctors are trusted—which is something that many will pay top dollar for when traveling around the world for a major procedure.

Tay Belgeri is a content writer with global experience. She writes for brands like Santander Bank, PokerStars, DraftKings, and OddsChecker. Her affiliate posts have appeared on AP News, Ranker, Notion, OK! Magazine, and other major sites. She writes about a variety of cultural topics (from sports to high fashion) but specializes in travel. Originally from Missouri, she now lives in Spain. In a few years, she will have spent more time outside the US than inside it. Career highlights: • Selected to present research by the National Council of Undergraduate Research (2014) • Acquired grants for New York City’s first Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration (2015) • Joined OddsChecker’s US Launch team (2020) • Shortlisted for the Foreword INDIES (2021, 2023)

What is Dental Tourism

In this article

What is Dental Tourism?

Dental tourism refers to traveling abroad to get dental treatment. Many people have left, or plan to leave, their country of residence for a “dental vacation.” They may seek higher-quality care, a more attractive price, or both.

Defining the Phenomenon

Visiting another country for dental care is an increasingly common form of medical tourism. Medical tourism, including dental tourism, can be divided into three basic categories:

• Going from a less developed country to a more developed country to access a higher standard of care — This is more common, as some procedures used to be available only in certain parts of the world. 
• Going from a developed country to a country where equivalent dental care is less expensive — This trend is rising as many countries offer more advanced medical treatment. 
• People living abroad who return home for dental care — This is also increasingly common due to global migration.  

This article focuses on the second type of dental tourism. For well-established dental treatments such as dental implants, going to a less expensive country is an attractive option for many people.

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Benefits and Risks of Dental Tourism

As dental tourism becomes an increasingly compelling option for many people, it’s worth considering the benefits and potential risks. While the advantages of traveling for dental care may seem obvious, the drawbacks may not be as obvious.

Advantages of Seeking Dental Treatment Abroad

There are several potential advantages to dental tourism as an alternative to treatment at home, including:

• Cost-effectiveness — Dental tourist destinations may offer the same quality of care at home but at a fraction of the price. Many clinics cater specifically to foreigners and cultivate a reputation for affordability and expertise.
• The travel experience — Besides getting affordable dental care, tourism’s usual benefits include seeing new places, meeting new people, and having experiences that wouldn’t be possible at home.
• High-quality procedures — Travel may be necessary to access the treatment you seek. This depends on your country of origin, as some countries still have an advantage over others regarding the most advanced procedures.

Concerns and Potential Pitfalls

There are also some potential disadvantages to traveling abroad for dental treatment. These include:

• Risk of low-quality care — The price these dental offices offer may be attractive, but there’s a risk of providing poor care and/ or using low-quality materials
• Little to no recourse — If you receive low-quality treatment in a foreign country, you may not have any legal or financial recourse as a non-citizen
• Long travel times — Air travel may impact recovery, increasing the risk of complications such as post-operative bleeding
• Leisure versus recovery — Drinking, dancing, or eating certain foods may compromise the results of your treatment
• Local diseases — Contracting a disease you aren’t immune to is another potential pitfall that could harm your ability to recover

Which Countries are Best for Dental Tourism?

Some of the most popular destinations for dental tourism include:

• Costa Rica — Offers state-of-the-art dental care at about a third of the cost of the US; many doctors, like those at Cavallini International Dental Clinic , have trained at US or Europe dental schools
• Mexico — Has many quality dental offices that treat Americans and other foreigners; the border city of Los Algodones, nicknamed “Molar City,” is home to hundreds of dentists
• Thailand — An increasingly popular dental tourism destination for Australians and New Zealanders; they can save half or more on dental work at offices like Bangkok International Dental Center
• Hungary — The top destination for Brits, Germans, and other Europeans seeking dental care abroad; clinics like Medicover in Budapest offer dental implants and other procedures at half or even a quarter of the cost at home

Other increasingly popular countries for foreigners seeking dental care include Spain, Poland, Romania, the Dominican Republic, Turkey, and the Philippines.

The best country for you to visit will depend on your preferences, current location, available funds, and any cultural association you might have with the country in question. You should choose a reputable dentist with a proven track record wherever you decide to go.

Why is Dental Tourism Thriving?

The trend of people visiting dental clinics abroad (that cater to foreigners) has grown significantly during this century.

This type of dental tourism is on the rise for several reasons:

• A good deal for the patient — Many people from countries like the United States are affluent by global standards but find it difficult to afford certain dental procedures at home. This makes them ideal customers for high-quality dental clinics in less affluent countries.
• A good deal for the dentist — The clinic can charge a price higher than average within their country but still favorable for the foreign patient.
• An opportunity for travel — Dental tourists can enjoy the other perks of vacationing abroad. They can bring family and friends, visit attractions, etc.
• Favorable location — The above benefits can be found in nearby countries for dental tourists. North American dental tourists can go to Latin American countries, Australians can go to Thailand, and Germans and Austrians can go to Hungary or Romania.

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Cost of Dental Tourism

The total cost of a dental vacation takes into account the cost of treatment, travel, and accommodation. Keep this in mind and weigh these factors against potential risks.

Other costs you’ll want to take into account may include:

• Travel expenses — Getting to your destination country and back, plus what you’ll need to get around once you’ve arrived (taxi and bus fares, etc.)
• Accommodations — The cost of a hotel, hostel, Airbnb, or on-site guest house
• Food and leisure — Enough to live day-to-day while abroad, plus any excursions you want to take, souvenirs you plan to buy, etc.

It’s possible that when everything is accounted for, the total cost of your trip will still be significantly less expensive than getting treatment at home. This is the bargain dental tourists are typically hoping to achieve.

On the other hand, the total cost may be more expensive than just getting treatment at home. You should rethink your plans or decide if the trip is still worth the expense.

Does Insurance Cover Dental Tourism?

Dental insurance may cover out-of-country treatment. Many travel insurance policies also cover dental treatment (however, this is typically only for emergencies).

If you’re living or working abroad long-term, you may want to consider an international health insurance policy with a global network of care providers. Dental coverage can often be included in this kind of policy.

If you have dental insurance, do the following to ensure you’re covered before traveling:

• Check with your insurer
• Find out any requirements your insurer places on out-of-country treatment (it may be handled differently than treatment at home)
• Make sure your dental clinic files any necessary documentation
• Be ready to pay out of pocket at the clinic (your insurance may require this, reimbursing you after the fact)

Even without insurance, dental tourism may get you a better deal than getting treatment at home. But only you can determine this.

Thoroughly research your options, and consider getting dental insurance (and travel insurance) if you don’t already have it. Remember that there may be a waiting period between starting your policy and getting full coverage.

Tips for a Safe Dental Tourism Experience

You’ll need to plan beforehand to ensure a safe and successful trip. Before committing to going abroad as a dental tourist, here are some steps you’ll want to take:

Research Thoroughly

Do your research to ensure quality treatment with a reputable dentist. Before traveling, you’ll want to:

• Choose a dentist — Pick a dental clinic with verified experience with foreign patients, using their website and any available reviews to vet them and make an informed decision.
• Make a plan — Contact your clinic of choice to establish a treatment plan and schedule and settle any logistical or financial questions.
• Know where you’ll be staying — Know how close your hotel, hostel, or Airbnb will be to the dental office, and plan for transportation back and forth. Some clinics that cater to foreign patients offer on-site guest rooms.

Before embarking on your trip, you should eliminate as many uncertainties as possible about the reputation of your dentist and the quality of treatment you can expect.

Consider Your Treatment

The specific dental procedure you’re getting may dictate your travel schedule. Be ready to plan multiple trips or a longer stay if necessary.

For example, many people going abroad for dental care seek dental implants. Implant surgery generally requires at least two visits:

• One to place the implants and temporary crowns
• A second visit several months later, after you’ve healed, to place permanent crowns

Consider having your dentist at home handle the permanent crowns, but getting the information they need from the original dentist may be difficult. You’ll likely need to plan two multi-day stays several months apart for successful treatment.

This is just one example of how your specific treatment needs may affect your travel plans. Know beforehand what you plan to have done and how you’ll account for follow-up visits or changes.

Travel Preparations and Considerations

Before traveling abroad, it’s best to be as prepared as possible to be a guest in another country. At a minimum, you’ll want to ensure you have a valid passport and the funds needed to cover travel expenses.

After that, consider the following:

• Location and logistics — Knowing where you’ll be staying and how you plan to get around is best. You’ll also want to ensure any other activities you want to do on your trip will be compatible with your treatment schedule.
• Travel advisories and safety concerns — Stay updated on recent travel advisories for your host country. Consult other travelers online to avoid scams that may target tourists.
• Health risks — Different parts of the world have different disease profiles. If there are illnesses common in your host country that you wouldn’t encounter at home, consider getting vaccinated before traveling.

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Dental tourism is a growing industry, as many people from countries like the United States can find quality dental services at a lower price by going abroad.

This is especially the case for procedures like dental implant surgery. These procedures require a high degree of skill and expertise but can vary greatly in cost from one location to another.

If you’re interested in getting dental work done in another country, do your research. Get advice from others who have done it before. Look for a reputable dental clinic with good patient feedback, and make sure you’re financially and logistically prepared to travel.

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• Jaapar et al. “ Dental tourism: Examining tourist profiles, motivation and satisfaction. ” Tourism Management, 2017.
• Mohammed, F., and Arishiya, T.F. “ Dental Tourism: Global Competition in Health Care. ” Medical Equipment & Automation, 2012.
• Dhama et al. “ Global Tourist Guide to Oral Care – A Systematic Review. ” Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 2016.
• Kopmaz et al. “ Dental Websites as New Media Tools for Patients in Dental Health Tourism. ” Acta Informatica Medica, 2019.
• Turner, L. “ Cross-border dental care: ‘dental tourism’ and patient mobility. ” British Dental Journal, 2008.
• Adams et al. “ A critical examination of empowerment discourse in medical tourism: the case of the dental tourism industry in Los Algodones, Mexico. ” Globalization and Health, 2018.
• Lwin et al. “ The level and determinants of international patient satisfaction with dental tourism in Bangkok, Thailand. ” Cogent Business & Management, 2021.
• Gergely, A.M. “ The Phenomenon of Dental Tourism: The Case Study of Hungary. ” Modul University Vienna, 2020.
• Oltean et al. “ Aspects of Marketing in Dental Tourism—Factor of Sustainable Development in Romania. ” Sustainability, 2020.
• “ Cost of a dental implant in selected countries as of 2019. ” Statista, 2019.

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Medical tourism market is projected to be us$ 80.07 billion by 2032, at a cagr of 24.7% from 2024 to 2032 | polaris market research (pmr).

The availability of affordable and advanced medical treatments in underdeveloped nations and the lack of insurance coverage in several nations drive the market growth.

New York, USA, Sept. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Market Overview:

The global medical tourism market size was valued at USD 11.20 billion in 2023. The market is anticipated to reach USD 80.07 billion by 2032 from USD 13.69 billion in 2024. It is expected that the industry will generate a CAGR of 24.7% from 2024 to 2032.

Market Introduction:

What is Medical Tourism?

Medical tourism is the practice of traveling across international borders to obtain medical care. Also called health tourism or global healthcare, the term has gained much popularity in recent years among policy-makers, researchers, and the media. A medical tourist may travel from less-developed countries with poor medical treatments to more advanced countries in search of elective and cosmetic treatments such as plastic surgery, hair transplants, breast reductions, or cosmetic dental procedures. The US is one of the biggest markets for medical tourism, leading more than 2 million Americans to travel abroad for medical tourism each year due to the high cost of medical treatments in the US.

Download Free Sample PDF Copy of the Report:

https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/medical-tourism-market/request-for-sample

Market Report Attributes:

Key Highlights of Report:

The medical tourism market is experiencing significant growth owing to factors including lack of insurance coverage in less-developed countries, rising demand for specialized treatments, and developments in healthcare technology.

The market is primarily segmented on the basis of treatment type, service provider, and region.

Based on region, the Asia Pacific region held the largest medical tourism market share in 2023.

Market Key Players

Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd.

Bangkok Hospital

Bumrungrad International Hospital

B. L. Kapur Memorial Hospital

Kasemrad Hospital International Rattanathibet

Miot Hospital

Mission Hospital

MOHW Hengchun Tourism Hospital

Mount Elizabeth Hospitals

Penang Adventist Hospital

Raffles Medical Group

Request for a Discount on this Report Before Purchase:

https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/medical-tourism-market/request-for-discount-pricing

Growth Drivers and Trends:

Robust Government Support: Patients are increasingly traveling abroad to seek advanced procedures and effective treatments for their medical conditions. To cater to the needs of international medical tourists, numerous national governments are investing in healthcare infrastructure and adopting strategies to promote health and wellness tourism within their nations. This is fueling medical tourism market growth.

Affordable Medical Services in Underdeveloped Nations: Compared to developed nations, patients can receive high-quality medical care in underdeveloped nations at low costs. The availability of advanced medical treatments at these reduced prices is driving people to relocate to these regions, fueling the medical tourism market demand.

Lack of Insurance Coverage: Many surgeries, such as weight loss, cosmetic, and certain dental procedures available by insurance companies in countries like Malaysia and Thailand, are not covered by insurance providers in the United States. As a result, an increasing number of people are traveling to Malaysia and Thailand for these medical treatments, which propels market expansion.

Which Region Dominates Medical Tourism Market Globally?

The Asia Pacific medical tourism market accounted for the largest share in 2023 and is anticipated to continue to dominate the market during the forecast period. This is because compared to the United States private healthcare facilities, medical treatment is more than 90% cheaper in countries in the Asia Pacific.

Inquire more about this report before purchase:

https://www.polarismarketresearch.com/industry-analysis/medical-tourism-market/inquire-before-buying

Segmental Outlook:

Medical Tourism Market - By Treatment Type-Based Outlook:

Cosmetic Treatment

Bariatric Treatment

Dental Treatment

Cardiovascular Treatment

Orthopedic Treatment

Ophthalmology Treatment

Infertility Treatment

Alternative Medicine

Medical Tourism Market - By Service Provider-Based Outlook:

Medical Tourism Market - Region - Outlook:

North America (U.S., Canada)

Europe (France, Germany, UK, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, Russia)

Asia Pacific (Japan, China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia. South Korea)

Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Argentina)

Middle East & Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Israel, South Africa)

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About Polaris Market Research & Consulting, Inc:

Polaris Market Research  is a global market research and consulting company. The company specializes in providing exceptional market intelligence and in-depth business research services for PMR’s clientele spread across different enterprises. We at Polaris are obliged to serve PMR’s diverse customer base present across the industries of healthcare, technology, semiconductors, and chemicals among various other industries present around the world. We strive to provide PMR’s customers with updated information on innovative technologies, high-growth markets, emerging business environments, and the latest business-centric applications, thereby helping them always to make informed decisions and leverage new opportunities. Adept with a highly competent, experienced, and extremely qualified team of experts comprising SMEs, analysts, and consultants, we at Polaris endeavor to deliver value-added business solutions to PMR’s customers.

Contact: Likhil G 8 The Green Ste 19824, Dover, DE 19901, United States Phone: +1-929 297-9727 Email:  [email protected] Web:  https://www.polarismarketresearch.com Follow Us:   LinkedIn  |  Twitter

Our Response to COVID-19 →

Medical Tourism

"top medical tourism destinations: a comprehensive guide for international patients" - a detailed overview of the most popular medical tourism destinations and the treatments they offer..

Medical tourism has become increasingly popular over the years, as patients seek affordable and high-quality healthcare services abroad. In fact, the global medical tourism market is estimated to be worth over $100 billion by 2025. With advancements in technology, transportation, and healthcare, patients can now travel to different countries to receive treatments that are either too expensive or unavailable in their home countries.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top medical tourism destinations, the treatments they offer, cost savings, and cultural attractions.

• Thailand is one of the top medical tourism destinations in the world, known for its excellent healthcare services and affordable prices. The country is particularly popular for medical treatments such as cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and orthopedic procedures. Bangkok, the capital city, is home to some of the best hospitals in the country, including Bumrungrad International Hospital and Bangkok Hospital.

In addition to its world-class medical facilities, Thailand is also known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Patients can combine their medical treatment with a relaxing vacation and still save money compared to the cost of the same procedure in their home country.

• Brazil is a popular destination for cosmetic surgery, with many patients flocking to cities like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo for procedures such as liposuction, breast augmentation, and tummy tucks. The country is also known for its expertise in plastic surgery, with many highly trained and experienced surgeons.

Aside from its cosmetic surgery industry, Brazil is also home to stunning natural landscapes, cultural landmarks, and a vibrant nightlife. Patients can take advantage of the country's beauty and cultural attractions while receiving top-quality medical treatments.

• India is another popular medical tourism destination, known for its affordable healthcare services and highly trained doctors. The country is particularly popular for treatments such as cardiac surgery, orthopedic procedures, and cancer treatments. Some of the top hospitals in India include Apollo Hospitals, Fortis Healthcare, and Medanta.

Aside from its world-class medical facilities, India is also known for its rich history, diverse culture, and delicious cuisine. Patients can combine their medical treatment with a cultural experience and still save money compared to the cost of the same procedure in their home country.

• Mexico is a popular destination for medical tourism among American patients, thanks to its close proximity and affordable prices. The country is particularly known for its dental treatments, bariatric surgery, and cosmetic surgery. Some of the top hospitals in Mexico include Hospital Angeles and Galenia Hospital.

Aside from its medical facilities, Mexico is also known for its stunning beaches, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture. Patients can combine their medical treatment with a beach vacation and still save money compared to the cost of the same procedure in the US.

• Costa Rica is a popular destination for medical tourism, thanks to its excellent healthcare services and affordable prices. The country is particularly popular for treatments such as dental procedures, cosmetic surgery, and fertility treatments. Some of the top hospitals in Costa Rica include CIMA Hospital and Clinica Biblica.

Aside from its medical facilities, Costa Rica is also known for its stunning natural landscapes, wildlife, and adventure activities. Patients can combine their medical treatment with a nature adventure and still save money compared to the cost of the same procedure in the US.

Medical tourism is a growing industry that offers patients the opportunity to receive top-quality medical treatments at affordable prices. From cosmetic surgery in Brazil to cancer treatments in Thailand, patients have a range of options to choose from. However, it's important to do your research and choose a reputable hospital and doctor before embarking on a medical tourism journey. With proper planning and preparation, patients can save money, receive high-quality healthcare services, and explore new destinations all at once.

Unveiling the Power of Social Media Marketing in Medical Tourism

Korea: turning the focus to an emerging global leader in medical tourism, exploring the surge of cosmetic tourism: trends and considerations in aesthetic procedures abroad, holistic healing: exploring integrative medicine and wellness retreats, meeting the surge: the growing demand for knee replacement surgeries and advances in the field, bridging culture and care: insights from dr. heitham hassoun, chief executive of cedars-sinai international, mastercard and the medical tourism association join forces to revolutionize cross-border healthcare payments, in pursuit of excellence: ceo spotlight with ms. artirat charukitpipat, stem cells show promise for hair thickening, stem cell injection for back and neck pain, continue reading, south korea, a medical tourism leader pioneering the future of medicine  , best countries for stomach cancer treatment: a global perspective, ponderas academic hospital: elevating medical tourism with jci accreditation and personalized care, featured reading, medical tourism magazine.

The Medical Tourism Magazine (MTM), known as the “voice” of the medical tourism industry, provides members and key industry experts with the opportunity to share important developments, initiatives, themes, topics and trends that make the medical tourism industry the booming market it is today.

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• Section 10 - Egypt
• Section 10 - South Africa

Saudi Arabia: Hajj & Umrah Pilgrimages

Cdc yellow book 2024.

Author(s): Salim Parker, Joanna Gaines

Destination Overview

Infectious disease risks, environmental hazards & risks, other health considerations, safety & security, availability & quality of medical care.

Hajj and Umrah are religious pilgrimages to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Islamic religious doctrine dictates that every able-bodied adult Muslim who can afford to do so is obligated to make Hajj at least once in their lifetime. Hajj takes place from the 8th through the 12th day of the last month of the Islamic year (Dhul Hijjah). The timing of Hajj is based on the Islamic lunar calendar; its dates shift relative to the Gregorian calendar, occurring ≈11 days earlier each successive year. In 2021, for example, Hajj took place from July 17–22, but in 2022, Hajj occurred from July 7–12. Muslims can perform Umrah, the “minor pilgrimage,” any time of the year; unlike Hajj, Umrah is not compulsory.

Normally, ≈2–3 million Muslims from >183 countries perform Hajj each year, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) continues its efforts to allow an even greater number of pilgrims (hajjis) attend. In a typical year, >11,000 pilgrims travel from the United States. Due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, however, only 1,000 pilgrims received permission to perform Hajj in 2020. In 2021, 60,000 were allowed, and in 2022, 1 million pilgrims made the pilgrimage. In both 2020 and 2021, because no cross-border entry into the country was permitted, KSA limited Hajj pilgrims to residents of Saudi Arabia.

Performing the Pilgrimage

Most international pilgrims fly into Jeddah or Medina and take a bus to Mecca. Although the actual pilgrimage lasts only 5 days, most foreign pilgrims visit Saudi Arabia for 2–7 weeks.

On the first day of Hajj (8th day of Dhul Hijjah), hajjis travel by foot or by bus ≈5.5 miles (9 km) to Mina, the largest temporary city in the world, where most stay in air-conditioned tents.

At dawn on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, hajjis begin an ≈7.75-mile (12.5-km) trip by foot, shuttle bus, or train to the Plain of Arafat ( Map 10-03 [all distances shown are approximate]). During the summer months, daytime temperatures can reach 122°F (50°C). The walking route features mist sprinklers, but the risk for heat-related illnesses is high, and ambulances and medical stations are positioned along the way to provide medical assistance.

Hajj climaxes on the Plain of Arafat, a few miles east of Mecca. Pilgrims spend the day in supplication, praying and reading the Quran. Being on Arafat on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, even for only a few moments, is an absolute rite of Hajj. Any hajji who fails to reach the Plain of Arafat on that day must repeat their pilgrimage. After sunset, pilgrims begin the ≈6.5-mile (10.5-km) journey to Muzdalifah, where most sleep in the open air. Potential health threats in Muzdalifah include breathing the thick dust and inadequate or overcrowded washing and sanitation facilities.

At sunrise on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims collect small pebbles to carry to Jamaraat, the site of multiple deadly crowd crush disasters. At Jamaraat, hajjis throw 7 tiny pebbles at the largest of 3 white pillars—the stoning of the effigy of the Devil. Afterwards, pilgrims traditionally sacrifice an animal. Some purchase vouchers to have licensed abattoirs perform this ritual on their behalf, thereby limiting potential exposure to zoonotic diseases. Other pilgrims visit farms where they sacrifice an animal themselves or have it done by an appointed representative.

The next morning, on the 11th day of Dhul Hijjah, hajjis go to the Grand Mosque, which houses the Ka’aba (“The Cube”), and which Muslims consider the house of God. Pilgrims perform tawaf, 7 complete counterclockwise circuits around the Ka’aba. Because each floor of the 3-level mosque can hold 750,000 people, performing tawaf can take hours. In addition to tawaf, pilgrims have the option of performing sa’i, walking (sometimes running) 7 times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, then drinking water from the Well of Zamzam. Hajjis can travel between Safa and Marwah via air-conditioned tunnels, which have separate sections for walkers and disabled pilgrims. At the end of the day, pilgrims return to Mina (via Jamaraat) pelting all 3 pillars with pebbles.

The next day, the 12th day of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims pelt all 3 pillars in Mina with pebbles again and then, after performing a final tawaf, some leave Mecca, ending their Hajj. Other pilgrims stay an additional night, pelt the 3 pillars with pebbles once more the next day, perform their final tawaf, and end the pilgrimage. Although not required, some hajjis include a trip to Medina, where they visit the Mosque of the Prophet, home to the tomb of Mohammed.

Map 10-03 Hajj / Umrah pilgrimage

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KSA can elect to restrict the entry of travelers coming from countries experiencing infectious disease outbreaks. In 2012, for example, KSA did not permit anyone from Uganda to attend Hajj due to an Ebola outbreak in that country; the same restriction applied to Guinea, Liberia, and Sierra Leone in 2014 and 2015.

Required Vaccines

Current Hajj vaccination requirements are available from the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the United States. As part of the Hajj and Umrah visa application process, KSA requires proof of vaccination against COVID-19 and meningococcal disease (for all pilgrims), polio (for pilgrims coming from countries where the disease is reported), and yellow fever (for all pilgrims arriving from yellow fever–endemic countries).

Coronavirus Disease 2019

In 2020 and 2021, KSA only permitted Saudi residents <65 years old to apply for pilgrimage permits. In 2022, the Saudi government reopened Hajj to pilgrims (<65 years old) from countries outside KSA. Priority was granted to those who had not previously performed the pilgrimage. For the 2020 Hajj, because COVID-19 vaccines were not yet available, KSA required Hajj pilgrims to have a negative PCR test. In 2021 and 2022, hajjis also had to provide proof of immunization with an approved COVID-19 vaccine. The Kingdom recognizes vaccines produced by Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, Oxford/Astra Zeneca, and Pfizer/BioNTech.

All travelers going to Saudi Arabia should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines .

Meningococcal

The Hajj has been associated with meningococcal outbreaks. In 1987, serogroup A was responsible for an outbreak and carriage by returning pilgrims to certain countries that resulted in disease among local contacts. Serogroup W was responsible for similar occurrences in 2000 and 2001.

KSA requires all pilgrims ≥1 year of age to submit a certificate of vaccination with the quadrivalent (ACYW) vaccine against meningitis, issued no more than 3 years (in the case of the polysaccharide vaccine) or 5 years (conjugate vaccine) and no less than 10 days before arrival in KSA. The conjugate vaccine is preferred because it is associated with reduced carriage, unlike the polysaccharide vaccine.

If pregnant women and children travel to the Hajj, they should receive meningococcal vaccination according to licensed indications for pregnancy and age respectively. For more details on meningococcal disease and its prevention, see Meningococcal Disease chapter.

Although KSA’s requirement for polio vaccine does not apply to adult pilgrims from the United States, ensuring full vaccination before travel is best. All pilgrims traveling from countries where polio is reported are required to show proof of vaccination ≤6 weeks prior to departure. KSA also administers a single dose of the oral polio vaccine to pilgrims coming from countries where polio has been reported, this in addition to any polio vaccine the hajji might have received in their country of origin. About 500,000 doses of polio vaccine are given at ports of entry, representing >90% of eligible pilgrims.

Bloodborne Pathogens

After completing Hajj, men shave their heads. KSA limits barber licenses and requires barbers to use only disposable, single-use blades, to limit transmission of bloodborne pathogens between customers. Remind male travelers to patronize only officially licensed barbers whose establishments are clearly marked. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends all travelers to KSA, particularly health care workers or other caretakers participating in Hajj, be up to date with routine immunizations, including hepatitis B vaccine.

Enteric Infections & Diseases

Diarrheal disease is common during Hajj. During the pretravel consultation, inform travelers about prevention, oral rehydration strategies, proper use of antimotility agents, and self-treatment of travelers’ diarrhea (TD) with antibiotics. Most TD in hajjis is bacterial (≤83%), with smaller proportions caused by viruses and parasites. More information on TD can be found in Sec. 2, Ch. 6, Travelers’ Diarrhea .

The World Health Organization recommends that travelers visiting farms, or other areas where animals are present, practice general hygiene measures, including avoiding contact with sick animals and regular handwashing before and after touching animals. Travelers should avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products, including milk and meat.

Respiratory Infections & Diseases

Respiratory tract infections are common during Hajj, and pneumonia is among the most common causes of hospital admission. The risk for respiratory infections underscores the need to follow recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices for pneumococcal conjugate and polysaccharide vaccines for pilgrims aged ≥65 years and for younger travelers with comorbidities.

Although not a requirement, the CDC strongly recommends that hajjis be fully vaccinated against seasonal influenza. Behavioral interventions, including regular handwashing with soap and water, properly wearing a facemask, cough etiquette, and, if possible, physical distancing and contact avoidance, can help mitigate the risk for respiratory illnesses among pilgrims. Assess travelers for respiratory fitness, administer necessary vaccines, and prescribe adequate supplies of portable respiratory medications (inhalers are easier to transport than nebulizers) as needed.

Crowded conditions, even outdoors (densities can reach 9 pilgrims per square meter), can increase the probability of respiratory disease transmission during Hajj, including COVID-19 and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). At the time of writing, no Hajj-associated cases of COVID-19 or MERS have been reported. Many pilgrims come from areas highly endemic for tuberculosis (TB); some arrive for Hajj with active pulmonary disease. Educate pilgrims about the risk for TB, and instruct them to follow up with their doctor if they develop symptoms of active TB.

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome

MERS, caused by the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), was identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012 (see Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 14, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome / MERS ). Domestic cases in and around the Arabian Peninsula and exported cases, including in the United States, have ranged from mild to severe; ≈35% of reported cases have been fatal. Close contact with someone who has confirmed MERS-CoV infection, exposure to camels, and consuming raw or undercooked camel products (e.g., milk, urine, meat) are all considered risk factors for human infection with MERS-CoV.

Skin Infections

Chafing caused by long periods of standing and walking in the heat can lead to bacterial or fungal skin infections. Advise travelers to keep their skin dry, use talcum powder, and to be aware of any pain or irritation caused by garments. Travelers should disinfect open sores and blisters and keep them covered. As a sign of respect, pilgrims enter the Grand Mosque with the tops of their feet uncovered; while most hajjis perform tawaf in their bare feet, encourage travelers with diabetes to wear appropriate, protective footwear.

Vectorborne Diseases

Aedes mosquitoes, vectors for dengue, and Anopheles mosquitoes, vectors for malaria, are present in Saudi Arabia. Travelers should follow mosquito bite prevention measures outlined in Sec. 4, Ch. 6, Mosquitoes, Ticks & Other Arthropods . Dengue has been documented in Mecca and Jeddah, but not in association with Hajj. KSA conducts extensive spraying campaigns before Hajj, and especially targets the housing units of pilgrims from malaria- and dengue-endemic areas. The cities of Jeddah, Mecca, Medina, Riyadh (the capital of KSA), and Ta’if have no malaria transmission, and prophylaxis against malaria is neither recommended nor required for pilgrims.

Animal Bites

Pilgrims bitten by animals should seek immediate medical attention to address any potential rabies exposure (see Sec. 4, Ch. 7, Zoonotic Exposures: Bites, Stings, Scratches & Other Hazards , and Sec. 5, Part 2, Ch. 18, Rabies ).

Climate & Sun Exposure

Heat is a threat to the health and well-being of all travelers; both heat exhaustion and heatstroke can cause incapacitation and death among pilgrims (see Sec. 4. Ch. 2, Extremes of Temperature ). Travelers are particularly at risk when Hajj occurs during summer months; the average high temperatures during June–September are ≥110°F. High temperatures combined with high humidity can lead to a heat index indicative of an extreme heat warning. High heat alone can exacerbate chronic conditions.

Depending on the exact location of their lodgings within Mina and whether they use trains or shuttle buses to get from one location to another, hajjis might walk up to ≈35–40 miles (≈55–65 km) over the 5 days; about 45% of pilgrims walk during the Hajj rituals. Counsel pilgrims to stay well hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade or use umbrellas when possible. Religious leaders have ruled that it is permissible for hajjis to perform some rituals after dark. In addition, except for a pilgrim’s required presence on Arafat on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, most other compulsory rituals can be postponed, done by proxy, or redeemed by paying a penalty.

Chronic Health Conditions

Hajj is arduous, even for young, healthy pilgrims. Because many Muslims wait until they are older before performing Hajj, they are more likely to have chronic health conditions. Travelers caught up in the experience of Hajj or Umrah might forget to take their usual medications. People with chronic medical conditions should have a health assessment before traveling to Hajj. Tailor a plan for each traveler’s unique risks, including adjusting the usual medical regimen if necessary, ensuring an adequate supply of medications, and providing education about symptoms that indicate a condition requiring urgent attention.

Pilgrims with diabetes should have a customized management plan that enables them to meet the arduous physical challenges of the Hajj. They should bring adequate amounts of all medications, plus syringes and needles if they are insulin dependent. They also should carry an emergency kit with them on their pilgrimage; the kit should include easily accessible carbohydrate sources, glucagon, a glucometer and test strips, urine ketone sticks to evaluate for ketoacidosis, and a list of medications and care plans. Emphasize the importance of wearing durable and protective footwear to reduce the incidence of minor foot trauma, which can lead to infections.

Menstruation

Muslim law prohibits a person who is menstruating from performing tawaf. All other rituals are independent of menses. Because pilgrims generally know well in advance that they will be making a pilgrimage, those who intend to manipulate their menstrual cycle should consult with a physician 2–3 months before the journey.

Fire is a potential risk during Hajj. In 1997, open stoves set tents on fire, and the resulting blaze killed 343 pilgrims and injured >1,500. In 2015, a hotel caught fire and >1,000 pilgrims were evacuated. KSA no longer allows pilgrims to erect their own lodgings or prepare their own food; permanent fiberglass structures have replaced formerly makeshift accommodations.

Traffic-Related Injuries

As in other countries, motor vehicle crashes are the primary safety risk for US travelers to KSA. Remind Hajj pilgrims of the importance of seatbelt use in any vehicle, including buses (see Sec. 8, Ch. 5, Road & Traffic Safety ). Encourage pilgrims to be mindful of their own safety when they walk long distances through or near dense traffic.

Trauma is a major cause of injury and death during Hajj. Hajj is associated with dense crowding, leading to crush disasters or stampedes. Thousands of pilgrims were killed during a crush at Mina in 2015, making it the deadliest Hajj disaster on record. Death usually results from asphyxiation or head trauma, and large crowds limit the movement of emergency medical services, making prompt rescue and treatment difficult.

Travelers who become ill during Hajj have access to medical facilities located in and around the holy sites. An estimated 25,000 health care workers are typically in attendance, and medical services are offered free of charge to all pilgrims. For safety reasons, KSA advises that children, the frail elderly, seriously ill, and pregnant people postpone Hajj and Umrah.

The following authors contributed to the previous version of this chapter: Salim Parker, Joanna Gaines

Bibliography

Aldossari M, Aljoudi A, Celentano D. Health issues in the Hajj pilgrimage: a literature review. East Mediterr Health J. 2019;25(10):744–9.

Alsafadi H, Goodwin W, Syed A. Diabetes care during Hajj. Clin Med. 2011;11(3):218–21.

Alzahrani AG, Choudhry AJ, Al Mazroa MA, Turkistani AH, Nouman GS, Memish ZA. Pattern of diseases among visitors to Mina health centers during the Hajj season, 1429 H (2008 G). J Infect Public Health. 2012;5(1):22–34.

Assiri A, Al-Tawfiq JA, Al-Rabeeah AA, Al-Rabiah FA, Al-Hajjar S, Al-Barrak A, et al. Epidemiological, demographic, and clinical characteristics of 47 cases of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus disease from Saudi Arabia: a descriptive study. Lancet Infect Dis. 2013;13(9):752–61.

Benkouiten S, Al-Tawfiq JA, Memish ZA, Albarrak A, Gautret P. Clinical respiratory infections and pneumonia during the Hajj pilgrimage: a systematic review. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2019;28:15–26.

Memish ZA. Saudi Arabia has several strategies to care for pilgrims on the Hajj. BMJ. 2011;343:d7731.

Memish ZA. The Hajj: communicable and noncommunicable health hazards and current guidance for pilgrims. Euro Surveill. 2010;15(39):19671.

Memish ZA, Al-Rabeeah AA. Health conditions of travellers to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj and Umra) for 1434 (2013). J Epidemiol Glob Health. 2013;3(2):59–61.

Memish Z, Zumla A, Alhakeem R, Assiri A, Turkestani A, Al Harby KD, et al. Hajj: infectious disease surveillance and control. Lancet. 2014;383(9934):2073–82.

Yezli S. The threat of meningococcal disease during the Hajj and Umrah mass gatherings: a comprehensive review. Travel Med Infect Dis. 2018;24:51–8.

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Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the United Arab Emirates and sits off the mainland on an island in the Persian Gulf.

Argentina is the birthplace of tango and is home to millions of European immigrants. Such cultural diversity with its vast land area ensures a varied cultural and ecological experience for tourists.

Bahrain officially the Kingdom of Bahrain is a sovereign state in the Persian Gulf. The island nation comprises a small archipelago made up of 33 natural islands and...

Brazil is the fifth largest and fifth most populous country in the world. Brazil is home to world-renowned beaches and adjacent nightlife.

Canada is the second largest country in the world by area and includes thousands of adjacent islands, notably Newfoundland in the east and those of the Arctic Archipelago in the north.

China is situated in eastern Asia. It is the third-largest country in the world, with an area of 9.6 million square kilometres, or one fifteenth of the world’s landmass.

Located in northwestern South America, Colombia is bordered by Panama, Ecuador, Peru, Brazil and Venezuela.

Located between Panama and Nicaragua, and nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, Costa Rica has a convenient location for eco and medical tourism.

Czech Republic

Located in Central Europe, the Czech Republic is a small landlocked country. It borders with Germany to the south west, Austria to the south, Poland to the north and Slovakia to the south east.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic comprises the eastern two-thirds of Hispaniola, the second-largest island in the Greater Antilles, with the Atlantic Ocean to the north and the Caribbean Sea to the south.

Dubai is known for its ultramodern architecture and its luxury shopping. It is located at the southeastern end of the Arabian Peninsula on the Persian Gulf.

Egypt’s land frontiers border Libya, Sudan, and Israel. Egypt’s border with Sudan is notable for two areas: the Hala’ib Triangle, along the Red Sea, and Bir Tawil, which is further inland.

France is a modern European republic. It is also one of the world’s major economies.

Called the Heart of Europe, Germany forms a vital link between Western Europe and the continental east, as well as between the warmer Mediterranean climate and the cool, Scandinavian north.

Greece was the home of great ancient civilizations and is now the site of many of their ruins. The country is also home to picturesque islands, great food, and a pulsating nightlife.

Guatemala is located in Central America to the south and east of Mexico, west of Belize, and northwest of El Salvador and Honduras.

Situated in the heart of Europe and straddling the central and eastern part of the continent, Hungary offers visitors a rich and unique culture.

A former British colony, India is located in southern Asia. Pakistan is located on its northwestern border; China, Bhutan, and Nepal are to the northeast; Bangladesh and Myanmar are to the east.

Iran also called Persia, and officially the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a country in Western Asia. With 83 million inhabitants, Iran is the world's 18th most populous country.

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Italy — officially the Italian Republic — is a European country consisting of a long, boot-shaped peninsula delimited by the Alps and surrounded by several islands.

Jamaica is a Caribbean island. Tourism, agriculture, and mining are its main industries, thanks to its tropical weather and its lush topography of mountains, rainforests, and reef-lined beaches.

This island nation from the Pacific Ocean sparkles with imperial palaces, mountainous national parks, thousands of shrines & temples, and plenty of advanced technology.

Jordan is an Arab Kingdom known for its governmental stability and hospitality toward refugees.

This Arab destination on the Persian Gulf has a cultural heritage dating back to antiquity, as well as the sixth-largest oil reserve in the world.

Lebanon officially known as the Lebanese Republic is a country in Western Asia. It is bordered by Syria to the north and east and Israel to the south, while Cyprus is west across the Mediterranean Sea

An archipelago in the Central Mediterranean Sea, the Republic of Malta is a nation known for historic sites related to a succession of rulers including the Romans, Moors, Knights of St. Johns, French

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With a GDP of $107 billion and a population of 33 million, Morocco's relatively liberal economy is one of the largest in Africa.

This nation on the Arabian Peninsula has terrain encompassing desert, riverbed oases, and long coastlines on the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Sea.

This narrow strip of Central American land is home to many ethnic groups because of its historical reliance on commerce.

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A former colony of Spain and the United States, the Philippines (located in the western Pacific Ocean) is one of two predominantly Catholic countries in Asia.

Poland is a country located in Central Europe. It is divided into 16 administrative subdivisions and has a largely temperate seasonal climate.

Portugal, officially the Portuguese Republic, is a country located mostly on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe.

This sovereign destination located in Southwest Asia has a sole land border with Saudi Arabia and a population of more than 2.3 million.

The world’s largest nation by area owns land in both Europe and Asia and touches both the Arctic and Pacific Oceans.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia is geographically the largest sovereign state in Western Asia, the second-largest in the Arab world (after Algeria), the fifth-largest in Asia, and the 12th-largest in the world.

An ex-British colony, Singapore is an island city/nation located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, south of the Malaysian border.

South Africa

Located on the southern tip of Africa, South Africa has a rich and tumultuous history. But despite its past, South Africa still draws more tourists than any other country in sub-Saharan Africa.

South Korea

As an East Asian nation in the southern half of the Korean Peninsula, it shares one of the most heavily militarized borders with North Korea, its only neighbor.

One of the most beautiful countries in Europe, Spain has a rich history of shared influence with external cultures.

With contemporary cities, hot springs resorts, and dramatic mountainous terrain, Taiwan is a small island nation located 180 kilometres east of China.

Located on Southeast Asia’s Indochina Peninsula, this developing nation is known for its tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, ancient ruins and ornate Buddha temples.

The Republic of Tunisia is the northernmost African country and is bordered by Algeria, Libya, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Turkey straddles both Asia and Europe. It borders four different seas and eight countries: Bulgaria, Greece, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq, and Syria.

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The United Kingdom is located in northwestern Europe. The full name of the country is The United Kingdom of Britain and Northern Ireland.

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Stay indoors in air conditioning or a well-ventilated area away from direct sun exposure.

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Extreme caution advised. High danger of dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps.

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Older adults, infants, and those with sensitive medical conditions, should minimize outdoor activity and stay indoors in air conditioning or a well-ventilated area away from direct sun exposure.

Caution advised. Possible danger of dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps if outside for extended periods, and especially while doing strenuous activities.

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Significant caution advised. Frostbite to exposed skin within 2 minutes. Hypothermia likely without protective clothing.

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Great caution advised. Frostbite to exposed skin within 1 minute. Hypothermia likely without protective clothing.

Outdoor activity is very dangerous and potentially life threatening. Stay in a heated area or, if outdoor activity is necessary, it should be limited to a few minutes and only if all skin surfaces are covered.

Extreme caution advised. Frostbite to exposed skin within 30 seconds. Hypothermia likely without protective clothing.

Outdoor activity is extremely dangerous and life threatening. Stay in a heated area or, if outdoor activity is necessary, it should be limited to a few minutes and only if all skin surfaces are covered.

Extraordinary caution advised. Frostbite to exposed skin within 20 seconds. Hypothermia likely without protective clothing.

Outdoor activity is extraordinarily dangerous and life threatening. Stay in a heated area.

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Life-threatening conditions expected in Gulf Coast as Hurricane Francine nears

What to know about hurricane francine.

• Francine is barreling toward Texas and Louisiana, and forecasters expect life-threatening storm surges.
• At 11 p.m. ET, the storm was about 185 miles east-northeast of the mouth of the Rio Grande and 295 miles southwest of Morgan City, Louisiana.
• A hurricane warning is in effect across most of the Louisiana coastline, while a storm surge warning covers the area from High Island, near Houston, all the way to the Mississippi and Alabama border.
• The governors of Louisiana and Mississippi have declared states of emergency.
• Francine is the sixth named storm of the hurricane season. After a busy start to the season, it is the first named storm in almost a month.

Biden declares federal emergency in Louisiana

Dennis Romero

President Joe Biden tonight declared a state of federal emergency in Louisiana ahead of landfall for Hurricane Francine tomorrow.

The declaration includes federal assistance for Louisiana's response, as well as federal coordination for disaster and relief efforts from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the White House said in a statement.

Federal officials will help with "alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population" while also providing "appropriate assistance for required emergency measures," it said.

Federal money will be available for evacuation, shelter and mass care for the roughly 30 parishes in the state that could be affected, the White House said.  

FEMA's Sandra L. Eslinger has been appointed to coordinate federal recovery operations, it said.

New Orleans public schools closed as a precaution

Public schools in New Orleans will be closed tomorrow and Thursday to keep children, teachers and staff members out of harm's way when Francine hits sometime tomorrow, NOLA Public Schools said in a statement.

Instruction ended early today as part of the response, according to the statement.

"Tuesday and Wednesday’s closures are intended to provide families adequate time to make necessary preparations and stay safe, particularly in light of potential flooding and other hazards in the aftermath of the storm," the district said.

The state of the district and the storm's impacts will be evaluated Thursday, and a decision about reopening campuses will be made then, the district said.

Francine moves closer to Louisiana's coast

The latest update from the National Hurricane Center tonight has placed Hurricane Francine just a little closer to the Louisiana coast, where impacts could be begin tomorrow, forecasters said.

The storm was 295 miles southwest of Morgan City, according to the 11 p.m. ET update. It continued to move northeast at 10 mph and produce maximum sustained winds of 75 mph, the center said.

A federal hurricane warning was in effect from Vermilion Parish to Grand Isle in Louisiana, all west of New Orleans. The same stretch of coast was also the subject of a storm surge warning.

The coastline could get rain amounts of 4 to 8 inches, with 12 inches possible, and a storm surge of 5 to 10 feet, the hurricane center said.

The storm was expected to gain some strength and accelerate before it strikes land tomorrow afternoon or evening, it said.

911 callers may get no response if Francine is overhead, officials warn

In Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, officials urged residents to be so prepared and out of harm's way they won't need to call 911 after Francine makes landfall.

Because if they do call 911, it's possible no one will be able to respond. Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng mentioned a no-response policy during a news conference today, and the sheriff's office confirmed it: Once tropical storm-force winds — defined as maximum sustained winds of 39 mph to 73 mph — kick in, sheriff's deputies are ordered to shelter in place. (Hurricane status begins at 74 mph.)

"Deputies typically remain on the road to answer calls for service for as long as it is safe to do so," Sheriff's Capt. Jason Rivarde said by email. "That threshold is once tropical storm force winds enter the area. We use the same standard for restoring service and beginning damage assessments after the storm passes through."

It wasn't clear whether the same standard applies to fire and medical first responders. The parish abuts New Orleans to its west and south.

Rivarde said keeping deputies off the road helps the community in the long term. "It is necessary to pull them off the road to allow them to shelter-in-place as the storm passes to preserve their ability to respond following the event," he said.

Louisiana communities order curfews

Lafourche Parish, west of New Orleans, and Washington Parish, north of the city, announced that curfews will be enforced as the area gets ready for Francine.

The moves could reduce the number of people needing help as hurricane conditions arrive, and they might offer security for business operators concerned about abandoning their locations.

In Lafourche, the curfew starts at noon tomorrow and lasts through sunset Thursday, officials said in a statement. Deputies will allow a grace period to allow workers to get home, it said.

"All businesses should be closed by noon on Wednesday for employees to make it home before the strongest storm impacts begin," the city said.

Washington Parish enacted an emergency order that declares public spaces off limits from 10 p.m. tomorrow to noon Thursday.

New Orleans officials want residents to wrap up preparations

Jesse Kirsch

Reporting from New Orleans

New Orleans asked residents to wrap up their storm preparations tonight.

According to the storm's forecast path, the city could be affected by the hurricane's right flank, which historically does the most damage along the Gulf Coast.

With landfall forecast for tomorrow on the Louisiana coast, possibly along the Mississippi River delta plain, officials say time for safe preparation is running out.

Residents are urged to shelter indoors overnight and throughout the storm's presence.

Francine strengthens into a hurricane

Mirna Alsharif Mirna Alsharif is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.

Francine is officially a hurricane, according to the National Hurricane Center's 8 p.m. update.

The center estimated the storm's sustained winds at 75 mph, which is 1 mph above the threshold for hurricane status.

"Additional strengthening is expected through Wednesday morning," the hurricane center said.

The storm has sped up slightly to 10 mph and will also continue to accelerate before landfall, it said.

"A faster northeastward motion is expected tonight and Wednesday," the hurricane center said.

Francine continues to move northeastward across the western Gulf of Mexico and is expected to make landfall in Louisiana tomorrow afternoon or evening.

With 4 major storms in its recent past, Cameron, Louisiana, once again is bracing for another hurricane 

Nidhi Sharma

Cameron, Louisiana, has been hit by four major hurricanes in the last 20 years, turning the Gulf Coast community into a ghost town . And once again, the residents who remain are packing up and evacuating as Tropical Storm Francine barrels toward the Louisiana coast.

Last night, officials ordered a mandatory evacuation for all of Cameron Parish, warning of strong winds, heavy rain and peak storm surge up to 5 feet . The storm is forecast to make landfall as a hurricane within Cameron’s radius tomorrow, threatening a community that has already suffered millions of dollars in hurricane damage. Cameron is about 70 miles southeast of Beaumont, Texas. 

Lifelong Cameron Parish resident Anna Dupont, 21, spent today packing and gathering supplies — gasoline, water, cat litter, trash bags and emergency MRE rations. Dupont and her family plan to ride out the storm from the nearby fire station, where her father works as the fire chief. They hope to provide aid to any remaining locals following landfall.

In recent decades, scientists have observed an increase in rapidly intensifying hurricanes linked to rising ocean temperatures resulting from global warming. And as Tropical Storm Francine moves into the Gulf of Mexico, record high water temperatures are fueling it. Over the last 50 years, the Gulf of Mexico, which borders Cameron, has warmed twice as fast as the rest of the world’s oceans.

DuPont says this storm is the last straw. Hurricanes have destroyed her home twice, but her family has stayed through it all. In the fall, DuPont is leaving her hometown and moving inland — and with the storm looming over her parents’ newly renovated house, she hopes they’ll do the same.

“I’m honestly over it at this point,” DuPont said. “I’ve packed my records and left everything else. This time, I just hope I can convince my parents to move.” 

Metro New Orleans under hurricane watch

Metropolitan New Orleans is under a hurricane watch, according to the National Hurricane Center.

Lake Maurepas and Lake Pontchartrain are also included in the hurricane watch. A hurricane warning is still in effect on the Louisiana coast from Cameron to Grand Isle.

Francine was still classified as a tropical storm at 5 p.m. with 65 mph maximum sustained winds. The storm is about 135 miles east of the mouth of the Rio Grande and 360 miles southwest of Morgan City, Louisiana, moving northeast at 10 mph.

Francine is expected to strengthen into a hurricane tonight before landfall in Louisiana tomorrow. It is expected to quickly weaken after making landfall.

"After landfall, the center is expected to move northward into Mississippi on Wednesday night or Thursday," the hurricane center said.

Mississippi governor declares state of emergency

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves declared a state of emergency this afternoon ahead of Francine's landfall.

Reeves said on X that the declaration would help the state "mobilize state assets, and respond as necessary."

Mississippi's coastline is so far forecast to avoid a direct hit, but it is likely to experience tropical storm-level effects, including possible life-threatening storm surge along the coast and waterways, according to the National Weather Service.

More evacuations for Louisiana parishes

Carla Kakouris-Solarana

Mandatory evacuations were issued for Lafourche and Plaquemines parishes on Louisiana's coast today.

In Lafourche, evacuations will begin at 5 p.m. They are mandatory for residents "in a FEMA or State Housing Units and South of the Leon Theriot Locks" and voluntary for those in the Lower Bayou Blue Community and Eagle Island Road and anyone in a mobile home, according to the parish website .

In Plaquemines, mandatory evacuations started at 7 a.m. in seven areas and will begin at 2 p.m. for the communities of Eastbank and Venice north to Alliance.

More than 100K sandbags deployed in south Mississippi

Nicole Duarte

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency deployed more than 100,000 sandbags in south Mississippi this morning in preparation for Francine.

The agency also shared a list of locations where residents can find sandbags.

Power outages expected in Texas; impacts already being felt in the South, officials said

Power outages are expected to affect Texas as Francine travels closer to the Gulf Coast, officials said.

Gov. Greg Abbott said at a news briefing this afternoon that he expects power providers to be prepared for potential outages, adding that CenterPoint's response to outages during Hurricane Beryl were "unacceptable."

"We know that even with the greatest preparation, winds can sometimes cause power lines to fall to the ground," Abbott said. "When that happens, we fully expect power companies to be prepared in advance to restore those power lines in a matter of hours, not in a matter of days."

Abbott said the state's response to the coming storm "has already been robust," with resources deployed to areas expected to be affected, including water rescue teams, food and water. The National Guard is also on standby, he said.

Heavy rain and storm surge have started to affect state highways in the Lower Rio Grande area in South Texas, said Marc Williams, executive director of the state Transportation Department.

Williams warned residents to be aware of their surroundings and not to drive into floodwaters.

"Also, be aware of potential for downed power lines," he said. "Having that awareness is critical, especially if you’re going to potentially be out on the road."

Workers close floodgates along the Harvey Canal

Baton Rouge residents collect sandbags ahead of landfall

Reporting from Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Residents in Baton Rouge were collecting sandbags at Cadillac Street Park in preparation for Francine's landfall.

Jynita Christmas hopes the storm and any potential damage are limited.

"Hopefully, it doesn’t do too much to us," Christmas said. "I’m hopeful that is what it is, just a lot of rain and wind."

Christmas said she's concerned the rain may cause flooding.

"When it rains a little bit, the area I stay in, it kind of floods," she said.

Christmas said she'd been up since 7 a.m. making trips to the grocery store and trying to find sandbags to help prepare her home.

Tropical Storm Francine likely to strengthen to hurricane later today

Tropical Storm Francine is likely to strengthen to a hurricane later today or tonight before it makes landfall in Louisiana tomorrow.

"On the forecast track, Francine is anticipated to be just offshore of the coasts of northeastern Mexico and southern Texas through this afternoon, and then move across the northwestern Gulf of Mexico, making landfall in Louisiana on Wednesday," the hurricane center said. "After landfall, the center is expected to move into Mississippi on Wednesday night or Thursday."

Francine is expected to bring 4 to 12 inches of rain and damaging winds to Louisiana. A few tornadoes are also possible tomorrow morning near the coasts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, the hurricane center said in an update this morning.

The storm is about 120 miles southeast of the mouth of the Rio Grande, with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph. It's moving north-northeastward at 8 mph across the Gulf of Mexico.

A hurricane warning is still in effect for the Louisiana coast from Sabine Pass east to Grand Isle. A storm surge warning has been issued from the mouth of the Mississippi River east to the Mississippi and Alabama border.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for the Mississippi coast from the mouth of the Pearl River to the Mississippi-Alabama border, according to the hurricane center.

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry declares state of emergency

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry has declared a state of emergency ahead of Francine's forecast landfall in the state tomorrow.

Francine is expected to strengthen into a hurricane before it makes landfall in the state, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The storm is expected to bring 4 to 12 inches of rain to the state, as well as damaging winds and a few potential tornadoes, tomorrow morning near the coasts of Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, the hurricane center said in an update this morning.

“This State of Emergency will allow parishes statewide to have the resources to help protect the life, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Louisiana," Landry said in a statement, adding that his administration will stay in contact with local officials and first responders.

LSU closes campus ahead of Francine's landfall

Louisiana State University announced that its campus will be closed today and classes will be held remotely tomorrow and Thursday.

The university had said it would remain open today, but it released an updated statement announcing the campus closure. All events on campus starting at 4:30 p.m. today will also be canceled through to Thursday.

Tropical Storm Francine is expected to make landfall on the Louisiana coast tomorrow as a hurricane, according to the National Hurricane Center. LSU is in Baton Rouge, near the coast, and it is forecast to get tropical storm conditions .

"LSU residence halls and on-campus apartments will remain open and food will be available to on-campus residents," LSU said in a statement. It also advised students living on campus to be ready to shelter in place and students living off campus to gather emergency supplies and consider safer shelter if needed.

More coastal communities in Louisiana ordered to evacuate

Patrick Smith Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

Another part of low-lying, coastal Louisiana has told its residents to leave ahead of Tropical Storm Francine, which is due to hit the state tomorrow as a Category 1 hurricane.

Terrebonne Parish, south of Baton Rouge, with a population of more than 100,000, issued an emergency declaration this morning and told people to leave the area by no later than 6 a.m. tomorrow.

The area is famous for its Cajun culture and use of Louisiana French.

Francine expected to intensify to Category 2 hurricane as it approaches Gulf Coast

Bill Karins

Tropical Storm Francine is expected to intensify into a Category 2 hurricane as it rapidly moves toward the northern Gulf Coast and Louisiana. NBC News’ Bill Karins gives the latest update on wind speeds and flooding potential.

Tropical storm conditions expected this afternoon

Kathryn Prociv

This morning, Francine remains a tropical storm with sustained winds of 65 mph — but it's expected to strengthen into a hurricane as it begins to move northeast toward the Gulf Coast.

Tropical storm force conditions are expected to arrive along the Upper Texas Coast between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. ET today and along the Louisiana coast by 2 a.m. ET tomorrow. Francine is expected to make landfall tomorrow afternoon or evening as a hurricane somewhere along the Louisiana coast. 

One update to the forecast compared to yesterday is a slight nudge to the east for possible landfall, putting Baton Rouge and New Orleans at higher risk for impacts. However, we are in the timeframe where changes in the track are expected — i.e. the windshield effect — so all locations from Lake Charles to New Orleans remain in the cross-hairs.

For southern Louisiana, rainfall amounts of up to 12 inches and wind gusts in excess of 100 mph will be possible through tomorrow across Louisiana.

Hurricane and storm surge warning area expanded along Louisiana coast

The areas covered by hurricane and storm surge warnings have been expanded by the National Hurricane Center, as Tropical Storm Francine slowly edges towards the Louisiana coastline.

A hurricane warning now stretches from Sabine Pass on the Louisiana-Texas border, all the way to Grand Isle, south of New Orleans — covering almost all of Louisiana's Gulf Coast.

The area covered by a tropical storm warning was widened to the Louisiana coast east of Grand Isle, to include the New Orleans metro area.

Potentially dangerous storm surges are expected from the mouth of the Mississippi River, near New Orleans, to the Mississippi-Alabama border, over the next 36 hours.

New Orleans urges people to prepare for Storm Francine's arrival and shelter-in-place from tomorrow

The people of New Orleans have been urged to complete any preparations for Tropical Storm Francine by tonight and to strongly consider staying at home tomorrow and Thursday. The city is under a tropical storm watch.

City leaders told a news conference last night that the storm is expected to become a category 1 hurricane and could have a severe effect on the city and wider region.

New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Director Collin Arnold said: "We do believe that this is a shelter-in-place scenario storm and that the public should pay a lot of attention to this."

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry urges people to be 'cautious and vigilant'

People in at-risk areas of Louisiana should have a plan in place and be aware of the dangers of the storm, Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry said at a news conference last night.

"We want everyone in that state to be cautious and vigilant. We don't want to downplay this event, but we also do not want people to panic," he said.

Landry passed a state-wide emergency declaration last night and there are 23 local emergency declarations across the state, a number that could increase.

Francine continues to build in the Gulf of Mexico

Max Butterworth

Satellite images captured by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show Tropical Storm Francine building in the Gulf of Mexico in the early hours of this morning.

New Orleans residents stock up ahead of Francine making landfall

Shoppers in a suburb of New Orleans gather food supplies at a grocery store yesterday as Tropical Storm Francine is expected to make landfall in Louisiana.

How bad will Francine be? 10ft storm surges and up to 12in of rain expected

Dangerous coastal storm surges of up to 10 feet are a major concern ahead of Francine's arrival in the U.S. The Louisiana coast from Cameron to Port Fourchon and Vermilion Bay could see between 5 and 10 feet of storm surge.

"The deepest water will occur along the immediate coast near and to the east of the landfall location, where the surge will be accompanied by large and dangerous waves," the National Hurricane Center said.

In addition, 4 to 8 inches of rain is expected from northeast Mexico to Mississippi, with 12 inches forecast in some areas. There will also be "life-threatening surf and rip current conditions," the NHC said.

Evacuations ordered for coastal areas of Louisiana and Mississippi

People living in low-lying, coastal areas of Louisiana have been strongly advised or ordered to move inland ahead of Francine's arrival on Wednesday.

Cameron Parish, a coastal community between Lafayette and Houston, where the storm is expected to make landfall, is subject to a mandatory evacuation order as of 6 a.m. today.

Grand Isle, a Louisiana town on a narrow stretch of land in the Gulf of Mexico, issued a voluntary evacuation for residents and a mandatory evacuation order for campers and RVs.

Meanwhile, Pass Christian, Mississippi, strongly advised the evacuation of Pass Christian Harbor.