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Panama
- Health: Health Tourism and Medical Tourism
Health Tourism (also known as medical tourism)
is a new term that is quickly gaining recognition in many countries
around the world. It is a style of tourism in which people travel
overseas for health purposes, such as to receive dental,
medical or surgical attention while also taking the opportunity
to take a holiday in an overseas country.
The demand for health tourism has been rapidly
increasing in many countries. This is due to a number of reasons,
including:
- The ease of communicating through the Internet has allowed
greater access of credible health and tourism information to potential
patients.
- Many people are learning that there are well trained doctors
in many overseas countries that offer health care at very reasonable
prices.
- People from countries such as the US and Canada are looking
for cheaper health care, because the cost of health care systems
in these countries are rapidly escalating and there are long waiting
periods for many patients to receive treatments. Also, a large proportion
of the population from the US do not receive health insurance.
- A comfortable and relaxing stay in another country can provide
a very enjoyable and cheap alternative to recover from many health
treatments and can possibly fasten the healing process in many cases.
- Traveling overseas for health care can provide privacy and
discretion that might not be available in your own country.
- There is a growing emphasis in our western society for greater
fitness, beauty and holistic health for maximum mind and body health.
- People traveling overseas, from countries such as the United
Kingdom, United States and Canada are becoming more comfortable
and familiar with traveling.
In particular, health tourism is growing quickly in Panama, Central
America. This is due to a multitude of very practical reasons, some
of which are:
- The warm climate (which is helpful for recovery from many
medical treatments)
- The fact that the dollar is the official currency
- Cheaper prices of treatments and easy access to a range
of medications
- High quality health care available
- The ease of traveling to and within Panama by air
Medical professionals in Panama are well trained,
many from around the world, and use the most up to date approaches
and technologies and medications. These doctors are quickly developing
a high quality international reputation. Many of the doctors in
Panama speak English and are board certified. Also, most have trained
and worked in other countries so are very familiar with modern medical
technology and equipment.
Additionally, there is also the allure of the natural and cultural
attractions that Panama has to offer. It is quickly becoming recognized
as a spectacular and fascinating destination that can provide a
wonderful R&R experience, whether it be on relaxing beaches,
scenic mountains or in magical forests.
Health tourists are able to stay in Panama for health purposes at
five-star hotels during recovery for prices
that are much lower than they would pay in the United States, Canada
or Europe. For example, in the US dental
implants can cost about $2,500. Whereas in Panama, the same
treatment as well as lodging, a personal tour
guide and transport is available at a much lower price. In some
instances receiving medical treatment in Panama can save you more
than 50% (compared to treatments received in the US, Canada or Europe).
Additionally, it is worth noting that most of your medical and dental
expenses as well as travel expenses can be tax deductible in the
US.
Some examples of treatments that are popular for health tourism
in Panama are:
• Cosmetic Surgery
• Dental Services
• Eye Surgery
• Spa treatments / services
• Dermatologist Laser
In general, Panama is becoming a very popular tourist destination
for travelers from around the world. As evidence of the allure of
this beautiful country, many retirees from the US and Canada have
been so enticed by Panama that they have retired
here.
Panama has spectacular natural wonders and a fascinating cultural
background. It is often considered to be much easier and safer than
traveling around other Central American countries. This is an important
factor when considering recovery from health treatments. The infrastructure
in Panama is also becoming much more set-up to cater for travelers,
but is still managing to steer clear of the very commercial tourist
industry that can be seen in many other tourist destinations around
the world.
It is easy to travel within Panama with tour companies, or rental
cars and internal flights. Many destinations are not far from Panama
City so you can easily travel for a day trip or for a weekend. Panama
City and many other Panama destinations have a range of fine restaurants
with local and international flavors. Food in most of these restaurants
is very fresh and the food hygiene is considered to be of a high
standard. Additionally you can drink the tap water safely in most
parts of Panama. A large choice of hotels and B&Bs around Panama
offer comfortable, clean and pleasant stays at very reasonable prices.
Also, numerous spas and resorts
are opening around the country that offer luxury lodgings with health
packages offering yoga, massage, and beauty treatments.
We hope this site provides you with the information you are looking
for on health tourism in Panama. Please take some time to consider
the great opportunities that Panama has to offer for you and you
health.
Contact us to request more information about organizing a health
or medical related trip to Panama. We can arrange as much or as
little as you prefer. Contact
us today.
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