Enhancing Medical Tourism truly needs technology
Traveling to another country for medical care is referred to as medical tourism or health tourism. The development and growth of medical tourism have been significantly influenced by technology in recent years. Here are a few examples of how technology is altering the medical tourism sector
1. Online platforms: Thanks to technology, it is now simpler for patients to look up and compare available medical treatments in various nations. Patients can find details on hospitals, clinics, and physicians in other nations as well as pricing estimates and patient ratings on websites like Medigo, Treatment Abroad, and ArokaGO. Patients will find it simpler to identify the greatest fit for their requirements and budget and make informed decisions about their medical treatment as a result.
2. Telemedicine: Using technology to deliver healthcare remotely, or telemedicine, is a growingly well-liked option for medical tourists. In order to save time and money, telemedicine enables patients to consult with doctors and other healthcare providers from the convenience of their homes. This eliminates the need for patients to travel for in-person consultations. Patients who are considering medical tourism but are unsure of where to begin may find this very helpful.
3. Mobile applications: A variety of mobile applications have been created with medical tourists in mind. These apps include resources for scheduling appointments and corresponding with healthcare professionals, as well as details about hospitals, physicians, and therapies in various nations. Some apps even provide translation services to assist patients in speaking with medical professionals abroad.
4. Virtual reality: To provide patients a virtual tour of hospitals and clinics, virtual reality (VR) technology is being employed in the medical tourism sector. Before deciding where to undergo treatment, patients can use this to gain a sense of the facilities and services that are offered. In order to assist patients see their treatments and procedures and make educated decisions regarding their care, VR technology is also being deployed.
In general, technology is significantly contributing to the expansion and development of the medical tourism sector. It is making it simpler for people to do their own home-based treatment choices research and comparison, consultation with medical specialists, and appointment scheduling.
References:
A Discussion of Virtual Reality as a New Tool for Training Healthcare Professionals. Perspective article: Public Health Education and Promotion. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2018.00044. Accessed December 20, 2022.
Craig, J. and Petterson, V., ‘Introduction to the Practice of Telemedicine’, Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare, vol. 11 no. 1, 2005, pp. 3-9.
Jiang X., Xie, H., Tang, R., Du, Y., Li, T., Gao, J.,Xu, X., Jiang, S., Zhao, T., Zhao, W., Sun, X., Hu, G., Wu, D. and Xie, G., ‘Characteristics of Online Health Care Services From China’s Largest Online Medical Platform: Cross-sectional Survey Study’, Journal of Medical Internet Research, Vol. 23 no.4, 2021.
Rangsit University, Thailand
Share this article
More Articles
Discover more insights on health care and medical tourism.
What You Should Know Before Retinal Surgery: Preparation and Precautions
Retinal surgery is a complex and important treatment for patients with severe eye conditions such as retinal tears, detachment, or advanced retinal degeneration. Without timely treatment, these conditions may lead to permanent vision loss. Understanding surgical procedures, technologies used, and treatment indications can help reduce anxiety and allow patients and families to prepare physically and emotionally. Strict adherence to pre- and post-operative instructions also improves recovery outcomes and reduces the risk of complications.
From Tooth Decay to Tooth Loss. How to Prevent and Treat It Effectively.
From Tooth Decay to Tooth Loss. How to Prevent and Treat It Effectively. Tooth decay is not a distant or trivial problem, nor should it be dismissed as merely a small cavity that can wait to be filled someday. In reality, tooth decay is a progressive process that continuously destroys the structure of the tooth. It can spread from the outer enamel layer into the dentin and eventually reach the dental pulp. If left untreated, it may lead to severe infection, requiring root canal treatment, tooth extraction, or even permanent tooth loss.
What is the Nipah Virus ? Know It, Prevent It - No Need to Panic
The Nipah virus is a type of virus that can be transmitted from animals to humans. In some cases, it can also spread from person to person. It is considered an emerging infectious disease that has been identified only in the past few decades and has caused occasional outbreaks in certain countries.