Medical Tourism: How Far are You Willing to Go to Save Money?

Authors

Thomas J. Prinsen, Dordt University
Louis K. Falk, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Javier Martinez, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

11-2015

Abstract

Medical needs of Americans are increasing as the population is aging and struggling with obesity. The addition of new medical technology and techniques, their widespread availability, and procedural improvements have created a more open market for medical providers. Costly procedures in cardiology and orthopedics serve as examples of increasingly needed medical treatments. Individuals, businesses and insurance companies have struggled to find ways to pay for these necessary procedures. Traditionally, in the U.S. the majority of medical procedures have been performed locally. Because of the rising costs associated with these procedures individuals and some healthcare providers are now looking to foreign markets. The performance of medical procedures by foreign providers has created a whole industry referred to as Medical Tourism. The growth of the field of Medical Tourism has presented significant questions, as well as substantial risks and rewards that need to be addressed before the consumer decides what is right for their particular circumstances.

Recommended Citation

Prinsen, T. J., Falk, L. K., & Martinez, J. (2015). Medical Tourism: How Far are You Willing to Go to Save Money?. Quarterly Review of Business Disciplines, 2 (3), 205-219.

Publication Title

Quarterly Review of Business Disciplines