Health Tourism in Colombia

In this article you will find answers for:

• Why Colombia for medical tourism?

• Top treatments in Colombia.

• Is Colombia safe?

Colombia is the new dearest destination for travelers who want to discover a vibrant country, full of attractions for every kind of visitor.

Why Colombia for Medical Tourism?

Colombia is constantly growing as a medical destination. The government is investing to expand the market taking actions to elevate the country in this tourism field. The project Transformácion Productiva from the federal government wants to rank Colombia as a world leader in this area by 2032. They are working to achieve this goal by forming alliances between the health and hospitality sectors, improving human resources, sustaining English classes, expanding infrastructure and working to get international affiliations and accreditations.

Now Colombia is reaping the benefits of its investments, as it is ranked as the 22nd best healthcare system according to the World Health Organization. This is the highest position in Latin America. Colombia is also home to 40% of the top clinics and hospitals in Latin America. Four institutions are accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI) which recognizes international standards. The Foundation Cardioinfantil and Hospital Universitario Fundacion Santa Fé de Bogota are two renowned institutions with accredited quality and are among the most famous in the country. 

Explore Colombia's Health Tourism. Get Free Guidance to Connect with the Best Medical Providers.

Foundation Cardioinfantil is located in Bogota, specializes in child cardiology, and offers a range of specialties for adults as well. The Hospital Universitario Fundacion Santa Fé has a research partnership with John Hopkins Hospital, in the USA. Among the twelve specialties offered, the hospital is proud of its certifications in programs such as organ replacement and primary stroke. Both of them offer assistance for international patients such as accommodation and transportation arrangements. 

Likewise, Medellin and Cartagena cities are also on the medical tourism map. Medellin, for example, is home to San Vicente de Paul’s University Hospital, internationally known for diagnostic procedures with advanced technological methods and equipment. The Cartagena Medical City is under construction and will be a facility with medical clinics and hotels in the area. 

In Colombia, it is easy to find qualified personnel with international experience and good infrastructure. Affordable care and no waiting time are some characteristics patients are looking forward to when choosing Colombia. Prices can be 40% lower than in the US. In 2015, the country received more than 50.000 medical tourists and the number is going up. The combination of these characteristics places Colombia as a high-quality medical cluster.

Top Medical Treatments in Colombia

Colombia is a top destination for medical tourism, offering a wide array of popular treatments. Cosmetic surgery is renowned, for attracting medical tourists for breast augmentation, liposuction, and rhinoplasty. Advanced cardiovascular procedures, like heart bypass surgery and valve replacement, are also available. Orthopedic treatments, including joint replacement and spinal surgery, are sought after by medical tourists. Gynecological procedures, such as hysterectomy and myomectomy, are well-established in the country. Moreover, Colombia provides addiction treatments and a comprehensive range of dental procedures, including cosmetic dentistry and dental implants. For those interested in plastic surgery, facelifts, tummy tucks, and body contouring are among the favored options for medical tourists in Colombia.

Find Medical Institutions in Colombia.

Cardiology:

Colombia is renowned for its advanced cardiology procedures, providing a comprehensive range of treatments for cardiovascular diseases. Among the common procedures are Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG), where a healthy blood vessel is used to bypass blocked arteries, and Angioplasty, a minimally invasive method to open narrowed arteries. Additionally, skilled cardiac surgeons perform Valve Replacement or Repair to address damaged heart valves, and Pacemaker Implantation to regulate abnormal heart rhythms. Electrophysiology Studies and Ablation are used to diagnose and treat irregular heart rhythms. With experienced cardiologists and state-of-the-art medical facilities, Colombia offers a range of options tailored to each patient's needs and condition.

The cost of cardiology treatment in Colombia varies based on the specific procedure and the medical facility. Prices start from $434 for high-output heart failure treatment to $4,633 for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Patients can expect to receive personalized treatments, expert care, and access to advanced technologies, making Colombia a competitive option for cardiac treatment. In comparison to the US, treatments such as angioplasty in Colombia offer significant cost savings, ranging from $7,000 to $8,000 compared to $22,500 in the US. With high-quality care and specialized cardiology centers, Colombia provides a comprehensive and cost-effective approach to cardiac treatment.

Cosmetic Surgery:

Cosmetic surgery in Colombia has emerged as a popular choice for international patients seeking medical tourism options. The country's reputation for high-quality procedures, skilled plastic surgeons, and cost-effectiveness has drawn the attention of individuals worldwide. If you're considering cosmetic surgery in Colombia, here are some essential insights to consider:

Colombia offers a diverse range of cosmetic surgery options, catering to various aesthetic needs. Among the top procedures are liposuction, breast augmentation, tummy tuck, Brazilian butt lift, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, facelift, mastopexy (breast lift), buttock augmentation, and chin augmentation. With such extensive options, patients can find the ideal procedure to enhance their appearance and boost their confidence.

One of Colombia's primary advantages in the field of cosmetic surgery is the exceptional quality of procedures performed by its skilled plastic surgeons. In a study published in the National Library of Medicine, it was revealed that Colombian plastic surgeons perform an impressive average of 294 aesthetic procedures per year. This figure stands at 31% higher than the average number of surgeries performed by their counterparts in other countries, highlighting the extensive experience and expertise of Colombian practitioners.

Beyond quality, the cost is another significant factor that lures international patients to Colombia. Compared to the United States and other Western countries, cosmetic surgery costs in Colombia are remarkably lower. With potential savings of up to 60% on the total cost, patients can achieve their desired outcomes while avoiding financial strain. This affordability factor allows individuals to explore additional procedures or allocate funds toward other aspects of their medical journey.

Colombia's enduring cultural connection to cosmetic procedures further contributes to its popularity as a medical tourism destination. The country has a long history of embracing cosmetic enhancements, and this cultural acceptance resonates with patients seeking a supportive environment for their cosmetic surgery journey.

Choosing the right plastic surgeon is paramount for a successful outcome, and Colombia boasts an abundance of highly skilled and reputable practitioners. For instance, Dr. Juan Carlos Monroy, a top-rated board-certified plastic surgeon in Colombia, and the esteemed team at Premium Care Plastic Surgery are among the many qualified professionals offering their expertise to international patients.

Regarding pricing, it's important to note that the costs of specific procedures may vary based on factors like the surgeon's experience, location, and facility. For instance, liposuction starts at approximately $2,000, while breast augmentation costs around $3,000. A tummy tuck can range from $3,000 to $7,000, and a Brazilian butt lift typically starts at $3,000. Rhinoplasty can vary from $2,500 to $7,000, and eyelid surgery is approximately $7,000. Facelift procedures tend to be around $9,500, but the cost of mastopexy (breast lift) may vary depending on individual cases. Buttock augmentation starts at $3,000, and while information on chin augmentation cost isn't readily available, consulting with a plastic surgeon will provide a tailored estimate. It is essential for international patients to conduct thorough research, seek consultations with qualified surgeons, and ensure a clear understanding of the procedure's total costs. With Colombia's appealing combination of high-quality cosmetic surgery, skilled surgeons, cultural acceptance, and cost-effectiveness, it has become an attractive option for those seeking cosmetic enhancements from around the world.

See Liposuction Price Comparison or Breast Augmentation And Areola Reduction Surgery With Prices in other countries.

Dentistry

Fertility

Joint replacement

Neurology

Ophthalmology

Organ transplant

Otolaryngology (ENT)

Stem cell therapy

About Colombia 

Internationally known for its coffee, the truth is, Colombia has much more to offer. Located in northwestern South America, it is the last country before entering Central America. Due to its location, the country has some important historical sites and rich biodiversity. The five regions: Amazon, Andean, Caribbean, Orinoco, and Pacific, are land of mountains, beaches, dunes, volcanoes, and architectural constructions. 

Once in Bogota, check out the Botero Museum presenting artifacts from the Colombian artist Fernando Botero recognized by its exaggerated figures. Most visitors include the Salt Cathedral of Zipaquirá in their itinerary. The place is located 31 miles from Bogota and is easily accessible by public transportation. The attraction was built in a real salt mine. Another interesting city is Medellin, located in the northeast of Bogota. It is considered one of the fastest-growing cities. The second-largest city of Colombia is investing to change its reputation, once associated with drug cartels, is now a tourist destination with attractions such as the Antioquia Museum and Laguna de Guatape. 

Is Colombia Safe?

The country could be considered an example of transformation. Back in the 1980s and 90s drug cartels and civil-military conflicts worried most travelers. Today Colombia is considered a safe place for most visitors. As in many countries, some problems may continue as street crimes, theft, and drugs are current. Be vigilant in deserted areas, keep your belongings safe carry the minimum necessary, and do not accept drugs or alcohol offers. This is advice to consider during your trip. Colombian police have a mixed reputation, while most can be trustworthy, bribery incidents have been reported so just be polite and always carry a copy of your passport. In case of an emergency, call 123 and follow the instructions. 

Colombia Quick Facts

Capital: Bogota

Population: 48,228,704 (2015) 

Major infectious diseases: Bacterial diarrhea, dengue fever, malaria, and yellow fever

Degree of risk: High

Passport validity: six months

Mandatory vaccinations: None (recommended Hepatitis A, Tetanus, and Typhoid. Consider Yellow Fever vaccination if traveling to jungle areas)

Currency restrictions for entry: up to USD 10,000

Emergency telephone numbers: 123