Malaysia

While most Asia-bound health travelers think of heading to India or Thailand for treatment, Malaysia is now firmly on the medical travel charts. In 2010, more than 390,000 medical travelers sought treatment in Malaysia, and the numbers are growing.

Why? Because the country’s facilities and expertise are on par with those in India and Thailand, with comparable costs on most procedures, particularly for the more elaborate cardiovascular and orthopedic treatments. A comparative skip from neighboring Singapore, Malaysia offers excellent facilities and care, with prices 50–70 percent lower.

At least a dozen of Malaysia’s 49 private hospitals, including the acclaimed Gleneagles Hospital Group, now serve international patients. Because Malaysia was a long-time British colony until 1957, Western culture is ingrained throughout the country. English is universally and comfortably spoken. Tourist attractions abound, particularly in the squeaky-clean capital of Kuala Lumpur and on the island of Penang, a favorite international beach resort and a medical travel center in its own right.

Comprehensive, Inexpensive Health Screenings

While getting treatment, many international patients take advantage of the exceptional, thorough, and inexpensive physicals offered by most Malaysian private hospitals. A dazzling array of tests and exams, including blood work, bone density scan, chest x-ray, and treadmill can be had for around $500. Malaysian hospitals were the creators of “well-man” and “well-woman” packages: extensive, low-cost physicals and tests promoting preventive care. Packages include pre-employment, executive screening, maternity, and more. Health travelers can also choose from a wide array of diagnostic packages, including heart, stroke, cancer, and bone scan.