In Thailand, knee replacement surgery is becoming more popular day by day. Thailand is a country that is one of the most loved destinations in the world. Thailand attracts different types of tourists, one of them is the category of medical tourists. As the country develops and focuses sharply on medical infrastructure and education, the quality and modernization of hospitals are also increasing. Thailand offers almost all the cutting-edge surgical options at very affordable prices compared to.
Why Choose Thailand for Knee Replacement Surgery?
Medical facilities in Thailand are emerging rapidly. It is always on the list of the best destinations in the world. People often choose Thailand for knee replacement surgery because, after surgery, during the recovery phase, they can visit some places to see the beauty of Thailand. The country’s medical infrastructure is significantly lower in cost also as compared to other countries, especially Western and European countries.
The most significant advantage is the cost difference for the surgery in Thailand and other Western countries; for example, the same surgery will cost you around $36,000 to $55,000 in the US. But still, if you are not yet financially or mentally stable for the surgery, you can opt for the non-invasive option. Yes, hyaluronic injections for knee pain relief you temporary, and it’s a positive for most cases.
Leading Hospitals and Medical Centers
Thailand has some best hospitals in the world for orthopedic surgeries. Some of the best hospitals are listed below:
- Bumrungrad International Hospital in Bangkok is well known and very popular among international medical tourists. It treats almost 1 million international medical tourists every year.
- Bangkok Hospital offers a large range of orthopedic treatments.
- Vejthani Hospital, popular for its highly experienced surgeons.
- Samitivej Hospital offers a wide range of services.
- Ramathibodi Hospital, popular among locals.
Types of Knee Replacement Procedures Available
Orthopedic hospitals in Thailand offer all the major surgeries for knee replacement, like total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, or revision surgery in case of any complication. According to the patient’s needs, the surgeons operate by using traditional methods or minimally invasive methods.
Thailand’s hospitals are well developed, they do have options of robotic surgery and modern surgical equipment, including computer computer-assisted surgery machine. By using this advanced equipment, a surgeon can achieve highly precise results.
The Medical Tourism Experience
Hospitals in Thailand offer highly experienced surgeons with a combination of advanced machines and robotic surgery machines. Many hospitals offer a premium experience to international patients. A very smooth transportation, good infrastructure, availability of flights, and affordable accommodation make it one of the best countries tourism-wise.
Most of the international patients face challenges to speak in speaking English or understanding the Thai language. To overcome this, premium hospitals in Thailand also have a translator and consultation program for international patients.
Quality and Accreditation Standards
Premium hospitals in Thailand have international accreditation standards. The JCI accreditation is considered the Gold or top topmost standard in the medical world. Many of the Thai hospitals have this accreditation. It means that the hospital is maintaining the highest possible quality and service as decided by the international standards.
Orthopedic doctors in Thailand regularly attend the seminars and educational programs to know about the latest medical achievements and new research. Most of the surgeons and doctors are working there, having graduated from renowned universities from all over the globe.
Recovery and Rehabilitation after Knee Replacement
If a patient knows what to expect after knee replacement surgery, it would be easier for them to smoothly conquer all the phases with ease. After the completion of the surgical process, the rehabilitation & recovery are one of the most important time periods to focus on. Hospitals in Thailand offer post-surgery programs that include physiotherapy sessions, diet, and restricted activities. A lot of hospitals in Thailand have modern rehabilitation centers with advanced facilities.
The average days a patient stays in a rehabilitation center is 5-6 days. Many international medical tourist generally prefer to extend their stay for 10 to 12 more days. They prefer to extend because they want to stay in their initial recovery phase in the hospital only. Once they can move easily, they prefer to travel or go back ot their place.
Planning Your Medical Journey in Thailand
Proper planning before going anywhere is very crucial, whether you’re going on vacation or due to a medical issue. It’s a responsibility of patent or patient’s family members or friends to do a little research on the best doctors, accommodation, best hospitals, food, recovery time, and insurance coverage.
It is advised to plan your medical trip of 2-3 weeks, so that the consultation team will have their proper time. The test will be taken before surgeries, and it also takes additional time sometimes. Always plan your trip, including extra time for unexpected complications.
Possible Challenges & Considerations
Thailand offers one of the ultimate levels of medical treatments, but patients must still be aware of all the considerations and potential challenges. Some major challenges include a language barrier. It is one of the most common issues when you’re going abroad. The feeling of not being at home during the initial recovery time can be emotionally or mentally challenging for a few.
If you have medical insurance, kindly check with your provider if it covers the country you are planning to visit. Or the hospital you have chosen is properly accredited. And also consider the fact that it can affect your stay or extend the stay.
Cultural and Environmental Benefits of Thailand
Other than medical treatments and facilities, Thailand also offers various cultural and heritage festivals and places to visit. Patients generally like this combination of medical facilities as well as the country’s scenic places. Seaside outdoor activities are quite famous in Thailand.
The traditional massage and spa centers for well-being are very renowned practices of Thailand. Patients can take advantage of it in their recovery phase, but only if the physiotherapist approves.
Conclusion
Thailand has established itself as a country with premium medical services and facilities. Thailand offers almost all surgeries at a very affordable price compared with Western countries. Maintaining an international level of standard in medical, the country also offers beautiful places to visit. Experiencing the cultural heritage of Thailand could be an unforgettable experience during the recovery phase of a patient.
However, planning for abroad for medical treatment abroad requires a lot of planning. Financial planning is very crucial, as patients who plan well generally obtain a positive outcome. Cases of knee replacement surgery in Thailand is rapidly growing day by day, as the infrastructure of the Thai medical system is growing. It is becoming the first choice for knee replacement for patients from all over the globe.