Malaysia has established itself as one of the top choices worldwide for those seeking medical treatments abroad. For expats living here, this just adds another layer of appeal for their home away from home. The Expat editorial team break down the reasons driving healthcare tourism and why expats in Malaysia are among the biggest beneficiaries.
As people living in countries such as the UK and the US know all too well, medical costs can be frightfully expensive. Even though many countries offer subsidised services at government hospitals, the waiting lists are often lengthy, and the alternative – private hospitals – have price tags that are exorbitantly high for people seeking treatment.
With the relative ease of international travel allowing people to think more globally, these healthcare troubles have given rise to a new type of international traveller: medical tourists, who get their treatment on their timetable, pay a fraction of the cost than they would pay on their home turf, all while enjoying a bit of a holiday at the same time!
WHAT IS MEDICAL TOURISM?
Healthcare tourism, or medical tourism, essentially refers to the practice of travelling to another country for medical treatment. As mentioned, the reasons for doing so range from poor quality services at home to the long waiting lists often in practice at hospitals in countries such as the UK to prohibitively expensive price tags.
A whole range of treatments are on offer for the healthcare tourist in a variety of countries. The most common treatments are elective or non-critical medical procedures, as well as aesthetic and dermatological services. It could be as simple a procedure as dental treatment or teeth whitening, while other health tourists travel for more complex needs such as cardiac surgery or hip replacements.
One aspect of healthcare tourism that is becoming more and more popular with health tourists – especially those from Europe and the US – is wellness. This refers to the holistic maintenance and support of the overall well-being of individuals and, in an increasingly stressful world, is becoming more important.
People seek chances to rest, recuperate, and rejuvenate themselves, spending time in spas and generally slowing down, enjoying being pampered at a much lower cost than in their home country.
AWARD-WINNING HEALTHCARE
Malaysia is fast becoming one of the most popular destinations in the world for health tourists, and it is routinely given high rankings in international lists, often appearing among the top health tourism destinations worldwide. This interest has in turn given rise to a greater number of top-quality medical centres that cater to the needs of health tourists arriving from all corners of the globe.
The proof is in the ever-increasing numbers. Last year, Malaysia’s Travel Health Council (MHTC) recorded over one million healthcare tourists, who contributed over RM1 billion in hospital revenue (compared to 859,000 in 2015). And those figures don’t include healthcare sought by foreigners who were already living here!
Continue reading your story on the app
Continue reading your story in the magazine
Island Gems In East Malaysia
Island Gems In East Malaysia
East Malaysian Adventures
East Malaysian Adventures
A Wonderful Escape In The Cameron Highlands
Andy Davison returns to The Lakehouse, his favourite boutique hotel in the cool Cameron Highlands, for a relaxing and rejuvenating escape from the city.
Rest And Relaxation
When it comes to health, an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure, and by taking the time to slow down and nurture your body and mind, you can ensure that you stay healthy and happy. Though Malaysia offers a huge range of treatments that seek to soothe the mind and body, there’s more to what makes malaysia such perfect place to be pampered.
Looking Ahead To An Exciting Future At ISKL
Looking Ahead To An Exciting Future At ISKL
Expat News
Expat News
Kuala Selangor: Wetlands Of Significance
Not far from the urban chaos of Kuala Lumpur lies a gem of a nature park, complemented by some of the best seafood around. David Bowden makes the short trip to Kuala Selangor and finds plenty to enjoy.
Experience The Wonder Of Myanmar's Biggest Festival
Experience The Wonder Of Myanmar's Biggest Festival
Exploring Laung Prabang
Laid-back and unassuming, Laos is one of the region’s most intriguing travel destinations. Editor Chad Merchant visits the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang and finds it the country’s perfect starting point.
Malaysia's Quality Healthcare Continues To Soar
Malaysia has established itself as one of the top choices worldwide for those seeking medical treatments abroad. For expats living here, this just adds another layer of appeal for their home away from home. The Expat editorial team break down the reasons driving healthcare tourism and why expats in Malaysia are among the biggest beneficiaries.
Across the Pond
Overseas adventure camping gear shouldn't weigh you down
J.Lo's - THE ULTIMATE BRIDEZILLA!
DOOMED GROOM?
THE GREAT ESCAPE!
Hero dad dives into flames to save twin girls
Bangkok to Bali and Beyond
Sail to the cultural wonders of Southeast Asia.
Have «comfort foods» PUT YOUR healthy diet ON THE BACK SHELF?
Nutrition Myth Buster Jonny Bowden says toss out the old nutrition advice along with the junk food. It’s time to start fresh before you start having health issues.
PARANOIA
MAGGIE LINDEMANN SPILLS THE TEA ON HER UPCOMING EP, TRAN- SCENDING GENRES AND COLLABORATING WITH POP PUNK’S FINEST.
COVID-19 TURNS MALAYSIA'S GLOVE MAKERS INTO BILLIONAIRES
Owner of Riverstone Holdings is now a billionaire with his share prices going up, keeping up with the increasing demand in protective gloves across the world.
Offshore Safety
Voyaging on the boat they built together
The Virus Clips AirAsia's Wings
The region’s premier discount carrier may have to lower its ambitions
Plant Power
Dr. Jonny busts the palm oil myth and sheds light on an estrogen-affecting phytochemical.