As medical tourism continues to rise, experts have issued new guidelines to help individuals navigate the complexities of seeking weight loss surgery abroad. A growing number of UK residents are traveling overseas for medical procedures, with an estimated 348,000 people venturing abroad for treatment in 2022, a significant rise from 248,000 in 2019. Among the fastest-growing sectors in medical tourism is bariatric surgery, with an estimated 5,000 people per year seeking weight loss surgery outside the UK, mirroring the number of surgeries performed within the NHS.
The UK’s obesity crisis remains pressing, with 64% of adults categorized as overweight or obese in 2022. However, long waiting times for NHS weight management services, with some patients waiting up to five years, have driven many to explore overseas options for surgery. Despite the potential cost savings, there are rising concerns regarding the quality of care, as patients face risks of subpar treatment and complications after surgery.
The Foreign Office recently highlighted a tragic example in Turkey, where six British nationals died following medical procedures in 2023. In response to growing concerns, experts have developed a set of safe practice guidelines for those considering bariatric and metabolic surgery abroad. These guidelines, published in the International Journal of Surgery, aim to ensure that patients are fully informed before making decisions.
1. Consult Your Doctor
Before opting for surgery abroad, it’s critical to consult your local healthcare provider. A physician can offer a valuable second opinion on whether surgery is necessary and discuss potential treatment options. If your doctor is involved in your aftercare, they can also help coordinate the transfer of medical records to your overseas healthcare team.
2. Assess Your Eligibility
The guidelines suggest that individuals with a body mass index (BMI) below 30, which classifies them as overweight but not obese, should not pursue bariatric surgery. This highlights the importance of ensuring that you meet the medical criteria for weight loss surgery before seeking treatment abroad.
3. Verify Surgery Accreditation
Patients should prioritize internationally accredited hospitals or clinics for weight loss surgery. While accreditation from organizations such as Joint Commission International or the International Society for Quality in Healthcare is important, it is essential to remember that certification does not guarantee a flawless outcome.
4. Understand the Risks
Patients are urged to gain a clear understanding of the risks associated with surgery, including potential complications during travel. The NHS recommends ensuring that you comprehend the possible side effects and long-term implications of the procedure. Additionally, patients should stay in the country where the surgery is performed for a sufficient period before returning home to minimize complications.
5. Plan for Comprehensive Aftercare
Weight loss surgery requires ongoing, specialist care. The guidelines recommend a minimum of two years of follow-up to ensure the patient’s health and recovery. It’s important to consider whether you will have access to adequate aftercare when you return home. The NHS and other healthcare providers do not always guarantee that complications from overseas procedures will be handled smoothly.
6. Avoid Cut-Rate Deals
Patients should exercise caution when encountering discounted offers for weight loss surgery abroad. These deals often raise red flags regarding the quality of care. Additionally, targeted social media advertising for bariatric surgery should be carefully scrutinized, as it may lead to unregulated or unsafe practices.
7. Secure Appropriate Insurance
Before traveling for medical treatment, ensure that you have comprehensive insurance coverage. Standard travel insurance policies typically exclude planned medical procedures abroad, so specialized coverage is necessary to safeguard against potential complications.
8. Seek Additional Guidance
For further assistance, patients can access resources from organizations like the National Health and Travel Network Centre and Public Health Scotland. These bodies provide helpful advice and checklists for individuals considering medical tourism, ensuring that they are fully prepared for the risks and logistics of seeking surgery abroad.
As the number of individuals seeking weight loss surgery abroad grows, it is essential to weigh the potential risks and benefits carefully. By following expert guidance and taking the necessary precautions, patients can make more informed decisions about their healthcare options.
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