Medical Tourism in Hungary
Hungary has become one of the prime destinations for medical and wellness travel in Europe. Its strategic location in the heart of Europe, easily accessed by low-cost flights from all of Europe and Russia, together with its rich tradition of wellness institutions, such as thermal baths, has made Hungary a growing medical tourism destination.
While not the cheapest destination for medical tourists, Hungary is an excellent choice for international patients wanting to combine their treatment with a rich cultural experience.
Cost of medical tourism in Hungary
The cost of healthcare and medical treatments are decidedly lower in Hungary than may countries in Western Europe or the US, however it is not as low as some other countries in the same area of the continent, such as the Czech Republic. This said, the cost savings still vary between 30-60% less than in the US or the UK. For some plastic surgery procedures, the cost may be as little as 25% of what you would pay for the same procedure back home.
Popular treatments in Hungary
Hungary is by far most popular for elective treatments, such as plastic surgery, dentistry, hair transplantation, dermatology, and obesity treatment. Gynaecology, radiological examinations and eye surgery are also common procedures.
Healthcare institutions in Hungary
Hungary has a well-maintained healthcare system, patterned on the British Healthcare System (NHS). Many British patients will therefore recognize the process, however also become pleased with the short waiting lines in Hungary in comparison to the UK. Most healthcare facilities catering to medical travellers are located in Budapest, where the range of aftercare institutions is also the highest.
Hungarian dentists receive thorough and comprehensive training, lasting longer than many other countries. Unlike most other EU nations, Hungarian dentists are also qualified and trained in all dentistry areas, which makes them very versatile.
Hungary has an impressive range of mainly privately owned medical and dental institutions catering to international patients. Although, most of these are smaller clinics as there is a limited number of key hospitals catering to international patients. The tradition of Germans and Austrians crossing the border to Hungary, and their requirements for state-of-the-art facilities and equipment has resulted in first-class care.
Hungary does presently not hold any JCI accredited facilities. However, there are other accreditation and license schemes recognized to institutions in the country, such as the domestic accreditation schemes from the Hungarian Ministry of Health, and the National Health Commission and Medical Service. Some facilities are also recognized by the Care Quality Commission in the UK and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Hungary can also boost having one of the lowest MRSA infection rates in Europe.
Nationalities seeking healthcare in Hungary
Hungary has always been a popular healthcare and dentistry destination for Germans and Austrians, benefited by the fact that most medical staff speak good English and German. Today, the convenient and cheap airfare has made Hungary popular among other populations; such as Italians, Scandinavians, Brits and Frenchmen.