In recent years, a new and rapidly expanding trend in global healthcare is overseas patients arriving to access stem cell treatment. Advances in so-called regenerative medicine has turned stem cell therapy into one of the most exciting treatment options for patients suffering from conditions that, until recently, were considered to be either chronic or untreatable. Patients all over the world are travelling abroad to access effective, innovative and low-cost stem cell treatment which was unavailable or highly restricted in their home country. This emerging trend shows how innovations in science have developed into medical tourism.
Why Overseas Patients Access Stem Cell Treatment Abroad
The primary determining factor for overseas patients access stem cell treatment is and continues to be accessibility, which is often dictated by the law and ethical debates in several countries restrict availability of some therapies. For example, in some jurisdictions, stem cell procedures can only legally take place in a clinical trial, while others have significant restrictions on the types of stem cells patients can use.
Patients going abroad have:
- Greater options – there are countries that offer no restrictions on the delivery of stem cell therapies, such as Malaysia, Thailand, Mexico, and Germany, where patients may receive experimental procedures.
- Faster access – unlike countries in the West, with extensive waiting lists, patients sometimes obtain consultations, medical assessments and treatment faster when they reach out to the overseas clinics.
- Cost – in some overseas destinations, patients can access very high-value medical care for a fraction of the cost of accessing care in the USA, UK, or Australia.
Common Conditions Treated with Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy can be used in some capacity for virtually all medical conditions, and this versatility attracts overseas patients who are looking for answers, particularly when all else has failed. Examples of more common medical conditions include:
- Orthopaedic issues (e.g. arthritis, injury to joints, degenerative disc disease)
- Neurological issues (e.g. Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries)
- Cardiology issues (e.g. heart disease, stem cell therapy for tissue repair after heart attack)
- Autoimmune conditions (e.g. lupus, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Anti-ageing and wellness treatments (e.g. overall rejuvenation and vitality)
- They are licensed and accredited by their relevant healthcare regulatory bodies.
- They use well-trained specialist qualified in regenerative medicine.
- They can provide documentation on the well-established protocols they follow in the conditions of stem cell sourcing, handling and administration.
- Their after-care programmes are ongoing and involve patients coming back in for continued monitoring and support.
- Malaysia – has developed a reputation for its modern medical system, affordable treatment options and skilled practitioners in regenerative medicine.
- Thailand – offers world-class healthcare and private hospitals providing a synergy of wellness and stem cell treatments.
- Mexico – offers close proximity to North America, lower costs, and advanced therapies.
- Germany – offers scientifically based treatments with a focus on clinical excellence as well as research.
This range of possible uses for stem cell therapy offers an explanation for why overseas patients are keen to explore stem cell options away from their usual health care setup.
Safety and quality considerations
While stem cell therapy is very promising, overseas patients need to weigh the safety and quality of treatment providers. Choosing the right clinic is very important. Good clinics typically do the following:
Patients also need to steer clear of clinics where there is no basis in science for warrants and claims made by the clinic. It is always wise to do your research, check references and consult independent medical advisors before making a decision.
International destinations for overseas stem cell patients
As stem cell therapy has grown in popularity, certain countries have developed a reputation as locations for international patients seeking the service.
Each country offers its own positives, and international patients frequently view these destinations based on cost, expertise and accessibility.
The Emergence of Medical Tourism
The emergence of medical tourism has made it easier for overseas patients to seek out stem cell treatment abroad. Companies and travel agencies are now identifying clinics and connecting patients with medical facilitators to arrange visas, accommodation and aftercare services – all of which lessen the stress and inconvenience for patients so that they can focus on their healing.
Indeed stem cell therapy is second only to cosmetic surgery, fertility treatment and dental care as a driving force in international medical tourism.
Ethics and Legislation
Stem cell treatment remains under discussion in many parts of the world. The ethical concerns centre predominantly on the type of stem cells used – embryonic stem cells – however most clinics treating overseas patients are focused on the use of adult stem cells (or mesenchymal stem cells) which are viewed as ethically uncontroversial and safe.
Patients also need to consider the legal environment in the destination they are visiting. It is important to ensure that treatments that may not be available at home, are legally permissible in the destination and that local law and international ethical guidelines are being adhered to.
The Future of Stem Cell Tourism
As research continues and regulations evolve, it is reasonable to expect that the demand for stem cell treatment from overseas patients will continue to grow. The global medical community is recognizing the potential for regenerative medicine and other countries are investing in medical tourism infrastructure to attract patients seeking to receive transnational healthcare.
For patients, this means more treatment options, safety, and healing. For the healthcare industry, it is an indication that science and medicine is developing and collaborating on a more global scale.
Summary
Stem cell therapy has moved out of the laboratory and is now a sought after medical option for patients around the world. Medical tourism has opened the door to advanced treatment options that were previously off-limits. Overseas patients are willing to cross borders in search of hope, healing and improved quality of life.
Challenges remain in areas such as safety, regulation and ethics, however the future looks hopeful. For patients unable to access stem cell therapy at home, the option of travelling overseas may provide access to an experience that fuses medical advancement and accessibility in healthcare.