Booking Surgery Abroad: What People Think vs. What Really Happens

Thinking About Medical Care Abroad? Let’s Clear the Air

Global medical travel is more advanced, accessible, and coordinated than ever — but outdated perceptions still persist. In this article, we break down common misconceptions and explain how Estedica ensures a world-class, fully supported experience from start to finish.

When you mention you're considering surgery or treatment abroad, the reactions are often instant — and rarely curious.

“Is that safe?”
“Don’t you need to speak the language?”
“Isn’t that what influencers do for cheap nose jobs?”
“Are you sure it’s even legit?”

Behind those questions is a deep well of misunderstanding, and a major gap between perception and reality.

At Estedica, we work with professionals, executives, digital nomads, expatriates, and families every day. We've heard every concern, and we understand the hesitation. That’s exactly why we exist: to reshape the conversation around global healthcare access, and provide clients with factual guidance, comprehensive support, and a first-class experience at every step.

Let’s take a closer look at the most common myths — and the reality behind them.

1. “It’s risky and unregulated.”

This is by far the most common misconception, and one of the most outdated.

Reality:
Estedica partners exclusively with internationally accredited hospitals, globally recognized surgeons, and clinics that exceed international safety standards. Many of our providers teach, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and practice cutting-edge techniques that are often unavailable or cost-prohibitive at home.

Far from being risky, these are centers of medical excellence — some of the best in the world.

2. “It’s only for cheap cosmetic work.”

The notion that medical travel is just for bargain cosmetic procedures still lingers, but it couldn’t be further from the truth.

Reality:
While some clients do seek aesthetic enhancements, many others travel abroad for:

- Orthopedic surgeries

- Cancer treatments

- Complex dental work and reconstruction

- Fertility diagnostics and support

- Executive health check-ups and preventative screenings

- Longevity and wellness therapies

For these clients, time, privacy, and quality are the driving factors — not just cost.

3. “You’ll be on your own in a foreign country.”

Many worry that medical travel means navigating an unfamiliar system alone.

Reality:
With Estedica, our clients are never alone. Every journey is fully managed by our dedicated global concierge team, who handle:

- Provider selection and matching

- Medical records and documentation

- Flights, transfers, and hotel arrangements

- Translation, cultural guidance, and on-the-ground support

- Post-procedure recovery and follow-ups

You’re supported from the moment you inquire to well after your return.

4. “The care can’t be as good as at home.”

This assumption reflects an outdated view of global healthcare.

Reality:
Many of the world’s most advanced medical centers are located in Turkey, Spain, Argentina, Cyprus, and other global hubs. These facilities offer:

- Leading-edge technology

- Shorter wait times

- More personalized recovery environments

- Internationally trained physicians

Often, outcomes are superior to domestic care — and the entire experience feels more human, efficient, and restorative.

5. “It’s complicated to use insurance or health spending accounts.”

A common barrier is the belief that overseas care won’t be covered by benefits.

Reality:
Many procedures are eligible for reimbursement through Health Spending Accounts (HSAs) and Wellness Spending Accounts (WSAs). We work with both employers and individuals to unlock these funds and to apply them strategically.

6. “There’s no insurance coverage for medical travel.”

This concern is valid — but the options are more robust than most realize.

Reality:
Many of our clients choose to purchase international private health insurance to cover their care abroad, especially if travel is extended or combined with vacation.

For additional peace of mind, others opt for medical travel complications insurance, which includes coverage for:

- Unexpected medical complications

- Rescheduled procedures

- Extended hospital stays

- Delayed or missed return flights

- Travel interruptions

We provide guidance on all options to ensure full peace of mind, no matter the scenario.

A New Standard of Care

Global healthcare access is no longer a fringe concept; it’s a smart, strategic solution to the growing challenges of modern healthcare systems.

At Estedica, we help our clients avoid long wait times, receive faster diagnostics, access better care, and experience a level of support and personalization rarely seen in domestic systems. Whether you're a company leader looking to expand employee wellness benefits, or an individual exploring care options abroad — we make the process seamless, safe, and exceptionally well-orchestrated.

Let us show you a new standard of care. One that’s not only possible, but already changing lives around the world.

Interested in exploring care abroad or adding global wellness to your benefits program? We would love to guide you.

www.estedica.com/contact | atyourservice@estedica.com | 1.250.884.1835