FAQ’s

FAQ's: Frequently Asked Questions

What is Medical Tourism?

Medical tourism is the opportunity for patients to travel for medical care outside of their home country, taking advantage of reduced healthcare costs, (saving as much as 100% +), and wait times with the same technology and safety standards. Medical tourism is also the opportunity to combine the vacation experience alongside receiving the medical procedure. Medical tourism provides the patient the opportunity to take control over their healthcare and insurance costs by understanding that your options for receiving medical care is global, and not just local, regional or within your home country.

Please click on the image below to get our FREE REPORT:

"The 4 Eye Opening Secrets of Medical Tourism That U.S. Surgeons Don't Want You to Know"

Is Medical Tourism safe?

Yes, medical tourism is safe. But you still need to be aware of all the same precautions that you would be asked to understand if you were having a medical procedure performed or making arrangements to travel. As long as you have medical tourism insurance, you will be covered financially from many, if not most, unexpected scenarios. In addition, Medical Retreat Abroad only is affiliated with medical centers that are JCI accredited, and the American Medical Association (AMA) has established a set of nine guidelines for those who incentivize medical care outside of the US, and if you would like to review those, they can be found on AMA's website.

What does JCI Accreditation mean?

The Joint Commission International (JCI) is the healthcare industry's official accreditation institution and ensures the awarded medical center has achieved the highest standards of quality care. The accreditation process requires an intensive and thorough review of all medical practices. In 2005, there were 76 approved foreign medical sites; by 2008, this number increased to 220. For more information on JCI standards, you can visit their website at www.jointcommissioninternational.com

Will there be any language problems with the physicians and nursing staff?

Absolutely not! All doctors, nurses and medical staff associated with the Medical Tourism International patient division are bi-lingual while some speak 3 or more languages.

Can you travel with a companion?

Yes. Accommodations can and should include a guest. It is never wise to travel alone, no matter what the circumstances.

Will I be able to add on vacation time to my medical procedure?

Yes. But planning your vacation time and activities must be worked around the medical procedure you have scheduled. Your first priority is the medical procedure and treating yourself with kindness after the procedure so that complications do not arise. In beautiful San Jose Costa Rica, relaxing by the pool or walking the beach could be your dream vacation. Whatever your preferences, we can assist you in scheduling all your accommodations.

How safe is the information I enter on the website?

Medical Retreat Abroad uses the latest technology in order to protect your privacy and all personal information in compliance with US regulations related to HIPAA.

Why is Medical Tourism gaining popularity and why do I want to consider?

With healthcare costs increasing on average at 10% per year, and expected to do so for the next 10 years, medical tourism offers savings of up to 70% after travel expenses. These savings are not being lost on employers and insurance companies. Self-insured employers, along with medical tourism supportive insurance policies, are becoming a stronger encouragement for patients to consider receiving their medical procedures outside the U.S. healthcare system.

Where can I purchase a Medical Tourism insurance policy?

If you are an individual seeking to purchase a medical tourism insurance policy, and do not work for a self-insured employer who offers this option, you can purchase this policy from our website under F,A,Q's.

Click here for a FREE immediate quote: https://www.sevencorners.com/insurance/bordercross/HWKY69P

How will my medical records be shared?

Medical Retreat Abroad will initially assist you with the facilitation aspect of the process, (NO FEE REQUIRED), by requesting you to complete a Questionnaire that will allow us to better understand your requests. Once we have listened to your desires and answered any questions, MRA will pass this Questionnaire off to the International Division of the JCI accredited hospital facility to obtain a procedural ALL INCLUSIVE quote. Once the quote is presented and accepted by you, Medical Retreat Abroad will turn over the coordination and communication to The International Division of the hospital and Medical Retreat Abroad will then work in to work in conjunction and with your assistance to obtain any necessary medical records, transcripts, scans, X-rays or medical tests that the surgeons feel they would need to make sure you are an appropriate candidate for the requested procedure.

If I need post-care, will this be included in my Medical Tourism experience?

Local follow-up care coordination is a "must", and will be coordinated and financially arranged in order to protect your continuity of care.

What if I encounter problems while entering my information on your website?

Should you experience any problems, you can contact us through This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Through the personal account you set-up in the beginning of the process, your information will stay protected, and you can return later to complete, once your problem and/or question is resolved. If you continue to have problems, you can email us direct at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Will I be able to speak with the surgeon that will perform my procedure?

Absolutely. Medical Retreat Abroad knows this is a very serious, emotional and delicate decision on your part, so we want you to be comfortable and get all your questions answered prior to making your decision. Initial questions are always better to inquire through email, once you feel comfortable Medical Retreat Abroad along with the JCI accredited hospital facility will assist you on a conference call, (at our cost), to speak live to the surgeon and ask any additional questions that were not answered previously.

Do I need a U.S. or Canadian Passport for Medical Travel?

Yes. You will need a Passport before traveling outside the United States or Canada. To begin the process you must have your original birth certificate. To enter for a minimum visit of 90 days the following are required:

A valid passport with at least 1 blank visa page.
The expiration date of your passport must be greater than 30 days from your date of entry.
A pre-paid airline ticket to exit the country you have visited.
If under the age of 18 and do not have his/her own passport, he/she must have a joint passport with one of his/her parents or legal guardians.

For further details click:

United States Passports: http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html

Canadian Passports: http://www.ppt.gc.ca/

Our Staff is dedicated to make sure you have all your questions and concerns answered to the fullest extent. No question is too small or unimportant when it comes to making such a monumental and emotional decision...just know Medical Retreat Abroad is here for you!