Medical Tourism

Belgium is one of the premier European countries promoting medical tourism today.  The Belgian Healthcare system is exceptional; it boasts the lowest post-operative infection rates in all of Europe.  The majority of medical tourism destinations advertise on cost savings; however Belgium distinctively markets their services based on their remarkable track record of high quality medical care.  Even so, Belgium’s medical procedures are reasonably priced and are still amongst the lowest in cost in the European Union and considerably less than that of the United States.  For this reason, the small country of Belgium attracts over 20,000 medical tourism patients a year.

Belgium has world renowned doctors specializing in a large variety of health services.  Heart surgery, orthopedic surgery, cosmetic surgery, kidney transplants, and dental work are a few medical fields where Belgium doctors excel.  Dr. Koen DeSmet is one of the hip resurfacing pioneers in the world using the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing System and the Wright Conserve Plus technique.  American orthopedic surgeons have studied and trained under him since the hip resurfacing procedure was approved in 2006 by the FDA in the United States.  Belgium surgeons have practiced this surgery for nearly 10 years.  Belgium  Nearly all American doctors have only performed this procedure a handful of times. doctors’ experience with this procedure is unparalleled.

Belgium is a World leader in the fight for moral freedoms.  Belgium was the second country to legalize euthanasia and gay marriage.  Belgium fertility clinics do not discriminate against any woman for artificial insemination.  Clinics do not require the knowledge of a woman’s sexual preference.  It is commonplace for Lesbian couples to travel from FranceBelgium for artificial insemination.  In France it is only legal for married heterosexual couples, or couples who have been together a minimum of two years to procreate.  Belgium allows this decision based on one’s own moral judgment. to

Country Background

Belgium is a country filled with culture.  It is celebrated for its beautiful castles, world-class art, and history.  If you enjoy treating yourself Belgium is home to arguably the best chocolate in the world; Godiva, Neuhaus, and Leonidas.  Belgium people are known for their love of cuisine, zest for life and love of beer as they boast over 500 varieties of beer. While in Belgium you also get a chance to eat the original French fries and waffles which both were invented in Belgium! 

Belgium is vital for global politics.  Belgium’s capital Brussels is the headquarters for the European Union and also the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) making it home to diplomats from around the world.

Pros and Cons

Belgium has state of the art medical facilities and has some of the best healthcare facilities in the world.  It is a developed and sophisticated nation.  With that being said nearly all of Belgium’s medical procedures will cost more than less developed nations like Asia, South America and Central America.  Included in the additional expense you are assured cleanliness and you will not be subjected to poverty that you would in some developing nations.  It is also safe to travel here and transportation is superb.  The flight from North America is also shorter and much better.  Transportation to Belgium from other European countries is reasonably priced especially with the introduction of low cost airlines in Europe and the Eurail.  The main advantage of Belgium is getting the highest level of medical care without the cost you have in the United States and some other European nations.  Belgium is a great alternative to patients who want to save money, yet do not want to travel to developing countries for medical procedures.