Medical Traveler’s Responsibilities

As a medical traveler, you bear the following responsibilities:

1. You are responsible for collaborating with your healthcare provider, agent, or patient care manager to develop and adhere to agreed-upon treatment plans and ongoing therapies.
2. It is your duty to ask questions if you do not understand any information, medical terminology, specifics of your treatment, or what is expected of you. You should also prepare written questions and comments for your doctor in advance.
3. You are obligated to consult with your doctor before self-medicating or pursuing alternative therapies, including herbal medicines, that could interfere with your ongoing treatment.
4. You must disclose all relevant information to your doctors, nurses, and care manager before, during, and after your treatment, including any unexpected changes in your condition, new symptoms, or increased pain.
5. You are expected to make an effort to understand and respect the cultural differences of the healthcare workers caring for you, as well as the differences between yourself and patients from other countries. You should show respect and courtesy to all individuals you encounter during your medical journey and clearly communicate your needs and preferences.
6. You are responsible for taking all possible precautions against spreading disease or infection, which includes frequent handwashing and strictly following your doctor’s orders.
7. You must keep your appointments. If you are unable to do so for any reason, you should notify your healthcare provider or representative immediately.
8. It is your responsibility to be fully aware of all the costs associated with your care and treatment, to arrange payment properly, and to meet your financial obligations.
9. You are expected to be honest, accurate, and thorough when providing personal information and to update this information regularly. If you have received any discounts or compensation (financial or in kind) for “telling your story,” you must disclose this fact.
10. You should be as informed and prepared as possible about your medical condition and needs. Seek expert advice from your general practitioner and/or medical travel planner and keep your hometown doctor informed of your plans.
11. You are responsible for seeking out reliable sources of information and being particularly cautious of internet websites and chat rooms that may misrepresent, either positively or negatively, information about a hospital, doctor, medical travel agent, or patient.
12. As a medical traveler and international patient, you are a partner in your medical care and assume greater responsibility than you would at home. If you choose to discontinue treatment, transfer your care and records to another physician or facility, or otherwise act against medical advice, you cannot hold the doctor, hospital, or agent liable for any consequences arising from your decision.