Medical Tourism on the Rise: Americans Seeking Affordable Care Abroad

Strategic Insights -

As the cost of healthcare in the United States continues to soar, more and more Americans are seeking medical care abroad, with approximately 500,000 people traveling overseas for treatments last year. This trend is fueled by the growing number of uninsured Americans and rising medical costs, which have led to a 87% increase in premiums for employer-sponsored health coverage over the past six years, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. In response, some companies and insurers are considering sending patients abroad for surgery, with United Group Programs offering a plan that sends patients to Bangkok, Thailand, promising to save employers over 50% on major medical costs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 500,000 Americans traveled abroad for medical treatments last year, fueled by high costs and a growing number of uninsured individuals.
  • Premiums for employer-sponsored health coverage have increased by 87% over the past six years, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation.
  • United Group Programs offers a plan that sends patients to Bangkok, Thailand, promising to save employers over 50% on major medical costs.
  • BlueShield of California and Health Net of California offer low-cost policies that allow members to seek medical care in Mexico.
  • The Philippines is marketing itself as a medical tourism destination, offering packages that include health checkups, surgery, and leisure activities such as city tours and golf outings.
  • The trend is expected to continue, with more countries seeking to attract medical tourists with affordable care and additional amenities.

Statistics:

  • 500,000 Americans traveled abroad for medical treatments last year.
  • 87% increase in premiums for employer-sponsored health coverage over the past six years (Kaiser Family Foundation).
  • 50% potential savings for employers on major medical costs through United Group Programs' plan.
  • Growth of medical tourism is expected to continue, with more countries marketing themselves as destinations.

Sources:

  • A report from the Kaiser Family Foundation
  • The San Diego Union-Tribune, November 2, 2006, online (www.signonsandiego.com)
  • United Group Programs
  • BlueShield of California
  • Health Net of California