Numerous North American health organizations have visited Medellin in search of quality medical services, it was reported Thursday.
These organizations are seeking alternative provision of medical care abroad, due to the high cost of treatment in the U.S, Canada, and certain European countries. For example in Colombia cosmetic surgery costs around one quarter of the price it would cost in the U.S.
The new market has a great deal of potential for both the health organizations and the city of Medellin, given that at least 50 million people in the U.S. lack health insurance, reported news site Tele Medellin on Friday.
The organizations reportedly left Colombia with a good appreciation of what Medellin has to offer in terms of health services. Some of the visitors had apparently heard that in the near future Medellin could become a world capital for medical tourism.
Collaboration between health and tourism authorities in the city has enabled the creation of tour packages which cover flight costs, accommodation, and sightseeing opportunities, as well as the desired medical attention.