Medical tourism has been on the rise for years, with patients from around the world seeking high-quality, affordable healthcare abroad. Among the many growing trends within this industry, one stands out: the combination of group travel and medical tourism. More people are choosing to undergo procedures alongside friends and family while turning their medical journey into a shared experience.
Why Group Travel and Medical Tourism Are a Perfect Fit
Traditionally, medical tourism has been an individual pursuit, with patients travelling solo to receive medical care in destinations offering excellent treatments at lower costs. However, in recent years, a shift has emerged—patients are now travelling in groups, often with friends or family members who also want to take advantage of medical procedures or simply provide support.
This trend is particularly strong in destinations like Colombia, which has become a hub for American medical tourists in Colombia due to its world-class healthcare facilities, experienced doctors, and cost-effective procedures. Many travellers seeking Botox in Bogotá, Colombia or Botox in Cartagena, Colombia are choosing to travel with companions, making the experience both enjoyable and stress-free.
4 Benefits of Group Medical Tourism
1. Cost Savings
Group medical travel often results in significant cost savings. Many clinics and hospitals offer discounts for multiple procedures or group bookings, allowing patients to reduce expenses on both medical treatments and accommodations. This makes procedures like Botox, dental work, and cosmetic surgeries more accessible.
2. Emotional and Social Support
Undergoing a medical procedure can be daunting, but travelling with friends or family members provides emotional reassurance. Having a familiar face nearby helps reduce anxiety and enhances the recovery experience.
3. Shared Travel Experience
Many people now see medical tourism as an opportunity to explore new destinations. In cities like Bogotá and Cartagena, medical tourists can enjoy vibrant cultural scenes, breathtaking historical sites, and beautiful beaches. Whether before or after a procedure, travellers can take advantage of everything Colombia has to offer.
4. Efficiency and Convenience
Medical tourism agencies and providers are increasingly catering to group travellers by offering packages that include medical appointments, accommodations, and even guided tours. This streamlined approach makes travel planning easier and ensures a seamless experience.
How to get to Colombia for Medical Tourism?
Travelling to Colombia for medical tourism is straightforward, with major international airports in Bogotá, Cartagena, and Medellín offering direct flights from the United States, Canada, Europe, and other parts of Latin America. Airlines such as Avianca, American Airlines, and Copa Airlines provide frequent services to Colombia’s key cities. Most visitors from North America and Europe can enter Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days, though it is always advisable to check the latest entry requirements before travelling.
Upon arrival, transportation options include taxis, ride-sharing services like Uber, and private medical tourism transport services arranged through healthcare providers or agencies.
Typical Medical Tourism Trips: Solo, Group or Event-Based
Medical tourism in Colombia caters to different types of travellers, each with unique preferences and requirements:
- Solo Travellers: Many patients travel alone for quick procedures like Botox, dental work, or minor cosmetic enhancements. These travellers often opt for short stays with efficient recovery times before returning home.
- Group Travellers: Friends or family members travelling together for treatments such as plastic surgery, dental work, or wellness procedures. Group bookings offer social support and shared experiences while reducing overall costs.
- Event-Based Medical Tourism: Some travellers plan medical procedures around special events like weddings, reunions, or corporate retreats. These trips are ideal for individuals looking to undergo aesthetic treatments before a major life event.
Growth in Medical Tourism in Colombia
Group travel and medical tourism are a natural fit, offering a cost-effective and socially rewarding way to access high-quality healthcare abroad. Whether you’re considering Botox in Bogotá, Colombia or a cosmetic treatment in Cartagena, travelling with others can enhance the experience and make the journey even more enjoyable.
Craig Dempsey, Chairman of Medical Tourism Packages, highlights the trend: “Medical tourism is evolving, and group travel is a key part of that. More people are realising the benefits of undergoing procedures together, combining healthcare with an enriching travel experience. Colombia’s reputation for high-quality medical care and hospitality makes it an ideal destination.”
With Colombia leading the way as a top medical tourism destination, now is the perfect time to explore the benefits of group medical travel.