Thailand’s Bumrungrad International Hospital Shares Insights on Medical Tourism

 

 

We got in touch with Bangkok Thailand’s premiere International Medical Hospital to share their insights about global medical tourism. Bumrungrad International’s Corporate Director of Business Development and Marketing, Mr. Sudi Narasimhan answered some of our queries regarding this developing industry and the latest trend in International Health Care.

Bumrungrad International consistently tops lists as one of the best hospitals for Medical Tourism worldwide and with their global vision and outstanding customer service, it’s no wonder this hospital is sought after in the world of Medical Tourism. Even with the recent terrorist attacks in Thailand, medical tourism in the country is still on the rise due to its reputation in excellent medical service as well as its must-see tourist destinations and experiences. Thailand’s Bumrungrad Hospital shows no signs of slowing down as they revolutionize international health care in SouthEast Asia.

 

Q: How does Bumrungrad International stay competitive in the Global medical tourism industry?

A: We remain the largest hospital for international patients in the world, seeing over 520,000 patients from more than 190 countries.  Achieving this requires the combination of having the top doctors who are leaders in their respective specialty combined with strong service delivery and the latest technology to support creating the best outcomes for the patient. 

An example of the latter point is our addition of a new dimension in cancer treatment by incorporating artificial intelligence of Watson, programmed by IBM. Watson searches and collects the best possible treatment options by examining all of the research and clinical trials from across the world and assists the oncologist in researching and determining the right combination suitable for the patient, taking into account the differences that are unique to each individual during the diagnosis and treatment.  A few of the most famous cancer centers in the USA are using this, and we are the first outside America to incorporate this into our program.

There is a strong focus on safety and quality, and this leads to measurable improvement in patient outcomes.  We were the first hospital in Asia to be accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), a US-based organization that measures and ensures consistency of standards and quality.  Since then we have been re-certified four more times and have demonstrated continuous improvement in our systems each time.

 

Q: Does your hospital offer extended services for medical tourists such as accommodation planning for companions etc.?

A: We are able to offer all of these services, and this is typically well received by our international patients.  Our Medical Coordination Office helps to review patient medical and lab records together with our specialists, and we can then advise the patient possible treatment options.  Also, this department will schedule appointments so that the international patient meets with all of the necessary specialists as soon as they arrive. The Contact Center can also make an appointment at the patient’s convenience. This saves time and gives an opportunity for the patient to better plan and be prepared for their travels accordingly.

The hospital provides a complimentary shuttle bus pick up service from SuvarnabhumiInternational Airport to nearby hotels within 10 miles radius of the hospital. This service can be pre-arranged through one of our 32 offices in 18 countries or by requesting this when making a direct appointment. 

For patient convenience, we have a Business Center located onsite that is able to help extend the patient and their companion’s visa, at a nominal fee. The Business Center is located on the Sky Lobby, 10th floor at Bumrungrad Clinic Building.

Normally, our room is big enough to accommodate one companion to stay overnight with the patient. However, our Business Center has a list of nearby surrounding hotels, most of them are within a short walking distance to the hospital, and they provide special rates for our patients and their family.  We also can arrange for tours of the city or local attractions upon request.

The hospital has a comprehensive range of services to support most of the international patients’ need which can be found on our website at www.bumrungrad.com.

 

Q: What is your hospital’s current practice or options when it comes to health insurance for medical tourists?

A: This is a very important question. I am glad you asked!

The hospital has contract agreements with more than 100 health insurances. However, not every health insurance company will cover overseas medical treatment.  Some insurance companies have a direct billing agreement with our hospital, so patients only need to pay the co-pay or deductibles. Other insurance companies require patients to pay the full amount and submit their receipt and medical certificates for reimbursement later. If patients require and inpatient stay for surgeries, our Third Party Services team is able to help connect with contracted insurance company for a letter of guarantee.

All medical tourists who seek to receive medical treatments in Thailand are strongly advised to check carefully with their health insurance policy if they would cover overseas medical treatment, prior to their arrival.

 

Q: Your hospital also has a well established Expat Market in the country, what kind of services do you offer that especially targets expats in the country?

A: Our hospital serves everyone who walks into the hospital regardless of nationalities. Our staff, including doctors and nurses, all speak English. Therefore language is not a problem.  However, we have expats or international patients coming from non-English speaking countries. Hence, we have more than 120 Cultural Officers who serve our patients, in 12 languages including Japanese, Myanmar, Cambodian, French, German, Bahasa Indonesia, Korean, Ethiopian, Mongolian, Mandarin Chinese and dialects, Russian and Arabic. They are offered to all patients who need language support at no extra cost. These Cultural Officers can be found on the 10th floor Sky Lobby of Bumrungrad Clinic Building.

Due to the high demands on language support, it is helpful to make a request for this service at the same time when making the appointment so an officer can be ready for the patient at the time of appointment or risk a wait until an officer is available.

 

Q: How does being active in the local and expat community in Thailand, help your hospital?

A: By actively participating in the community, we are able to provide support to locals as well expats. This can be in the form of educational events or through participation in local events, and it helps us connect with the community in which we serve. 

Providing orientation for new expats is well received. The Western medical system is different from Thailand’s system. It is scary to be ill in a foreign country not knowing who and where to go or if someone will be able to understand and care for them.

Together with a strong medical coordination team, we bridge the gap assisting our patients with their needs by recommending the appropriate doctor for their ailments, giving assurance that our doctors and nurses will be able to understand them, and be their advocate and partner in the patient’s journey.

 

Q: What can we expect from Bumrungrad International in the future?

A: Bumrungrad has been serving the community for 35 years and has grown to be a leading tertiary care hospital in the region during this time. We will continue to set higher standards in patient care that is driven by our relentless focus on improving safety and quality combined with the expertise of our medical staff.  Every year brings changes and improvements, and that should translate into a better patient experience.

 

 

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