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 30 August 2008 15:33 BST

Consumer watchdog warns of foreign surgery weaknesses

Thursday, 20 Mar 2008 14:02
'Medical tourists' are urged to check the terms of their procedure

Health In Focus 

People looking to go abroad for cheap surgical procedures have been warned to ensure they will receive the required follow-up care.

Consumer watchdog Which? says almost one in five 'medical tourists' have suffered problems after travelling abroad for treatment.

Its survey found that 57 per cent were satisfied with their treatment but 18 per cent had problems; in one case this included a tummy tuck going septic.

When a researcher called medical tourism companies one told him a knee replacement was not a risky procedure and that he did not need to see anyone medically qualified when he returned home.

But this is untrue as half of patients need physiotherapy and all cases need to be reviewed.

Which? says all potential medical tourists - of which there were 80,000 in 2006 - should check doctors' qualifications and registration with a professional body.

The watchdog adds that people need to be clear about what their contract says in the event of a complication and remember that legal rights differ across countries.

Which? editor Neil Fowler said: "Medical tourists must do their homework before jumping on the plane – and avoid rushing back too quickly - if they want to avoid potential problems.

"Ask the right questions beforehand, speak to UK health professionals, and don't assume you'll have a safety net if things don't go according to plan."

Hamish Laing, honorary secretary of the British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, said patients should think carefully before deciding to have cosmetic surgery abroad.

"When patients choose to have a cosmetic procedure in the UK, the consultant who conducted the surgery would provide the patient with any necessary aftercare," he commented.

"If something does go wrong, either a complication arises or the outcome of the procedure is unfavourable, it is relatively easy for the problem to be rectified.

He added: "While in some cases it may seem more cost-effective to have the surgery abroad, we would urge people to satisfy themselves that the surgeons and facilities are subject to the same level of independent oversight as in the UK.

"Unless it is an emergency situation the NHS would refer the patient back to their original consultant.

"This is not a possibility if the procedure was conducted by a surgeon overseas. The benefit of having the same consultant throughout your care should not be underestimated."
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