Medical Tourism Abroad A new challenge to Oman’s health system - Al Dakhilya region experience
Journal Title: Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal - Year 2011, Vol 11, Issue 4
Abstract
Objectives: Tis study aimed to understand why people seek medical advice abroad given the trouble and expense this entails. Te types of medical problems for which treatment abroad was sought, preferred destinations and satisfaction with the treatment were explored. A secondary aim was to give feedback to stakeholders in the health care system on how to handle this issue and meet the needs of the community. Methods: 45 patients who had recently travelled abroad for treatment were asked to complete a questionnaire or were interviewed by telephone. Results: 40 questionnaires were received. 68% of the respondents were male. Orthopaedic diseases were the most common conditions leading patients to seek treatment abroad. Tailand was the most popular destination followed by India (50% and 30% respectively). 85% of respondents went abroad for treatment only, 10% for treatment and tourism and 2.5% were healthy, but travelled abroad for a checkup. Interestingly, 15% of the participants went abroad without frst seeking medical care locally. Out of those initially treated in Oman, 38.2% had no specifc diagnosis and 38.2% had received treatment, but it was not effective. 73% of respondents obtained information on treatment abroad from a friend. Te Internet and medical tourism ofces were the least used sources of information. 15% of the patients experienced complications after their treatment abroad. Conclusion: Various facts about medical treatment abroad need to be disseminated to the public. Tis will necessitate greater effort in public health promotion and education.
Authors and Affiliations
Saleh S. Al-Hinai| Directorate General of Health Services, Dakhilya Region, Nizwa, Oman, Ahmed S. Al-Busaidi| Directorate General of Health Services, Dakhilya Region, Nizwa, Oman, Ibrahim H. Al-Busaidi| Directorate General of Health Services, Dakhilya Region, Nizwa, Oman
Keywords
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