The Philippines has a long history of Western healthcare, beginning in 1611 when the oldest university in Asia, the Santo Tomas, was founded along with its medical school. Due to this, medical care in the Philippines is primarily Western in its philosophy and approach. The Philippines is a predominantly Christian nation, and most of its inhabitants speak excellent English. Spanish is also spoken in some portions of the country. Every year, thousands of Filipino expats (mainly from the US) flood the country for healthcare combined with a visit to their family.

The Philippine government began show casting the country as an excellent Asian destination for medical, health, and wellness travel in 2006 when the Department of Tourism and the Department of Health launched the country as a world medical tourism destination. Since then, the Philippines has established itself as one of the leading medical tourism destinations in Asia.

Philippine prices and services

There are over 3,000 private and public hospitals in the Philippines, and many of these cater to international patients. The Philippine medical centers are known for providing high-tech, modern and value-for-money healthcare. Its state-of-the-art centers deliver seamless world-class health to medical travellers from all over the world. Many Philippine top hospitals are partnering up with medical facilities and institutions overseas, particularly in the US. Many Filipino doctors have received medical education and practice abroad (mainly in the US), and practically everyone speaks English, which to many international patients is very comforting.

Popular treatments in the Philippines

Philippine hospital supplies excellent medical care within treatment areas such as the following:

• Orthopedic procedures
  • Joint Replacement Surgery
• Cardiovascular care
  • Pacemaker Insertion
  • Coronary Arterial Bypass Graft (CABG) Surgery
• Cancer Treatment
  • Medical and Surgical Cancer Treatment
  • Chemotherapy-resistant Cancers
• Weight Management
  • Bariatric and Anti-Obesity Surgery
  • Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgery
  • Weight Management
• Eye Care and Sight Restoration
  • LASIK Eye Surgery
  • Cataract Surgery
  • Glaucoma Surgery
• Dental Care
  • Orthodontics
  • Implants
  • Restorative dental care
  • Preventive dental care
  • Cosmetic dentistry (bleaching)
  • Prosthetic Dentistry (Dentures, Bridges, Crowns)
• Plastic Surgery
  • Liposuction
  • Tummy Tuck
  • Breast Augmentation
  • Hair Implant
  • Facelift
• Execute health check-ups
  • X-rays
  • Complete Physical Examination
  • Mammogram and Pap Smear
  • Complete Blood Count
  • Urinalysis and Stool Examination
• Stem Cell Therapy
  • Bone Marrow Transplant

Several hospitals are involved in cutting-edge technique programs, such as regenerative medicine; defined as innovative medical therapies that involve the engineering of living cells, tissues and organs in order to preserve and enhance organ function, prevent disease or replacing organ function. Currently, immune cell regeneration for cancer treatment and organ regeneration is available.

Prices for Philippine treatments

Depending on the kind of treatment, prices are approximately 50% less of what you can expect to pay in the US or in the UK. Some procedures, such as laprascopic gastric bypass and hip replacement, can be as much as 20% of what you would pay back home.

Wellness treatments

The Philippines has a rich biodiversity with many plants that are used for wellness purposes. The country’s old healing traditions in the form of acupressure are also widely known and appreciated. Hilot, the ancient art of Filipino healing by touch, dates back to the 5th Century. Hilot’s concept of health and disease is based on the balance of hot and cold wind. When balanced, the body is well. The massage is used to locate energy blockings in the patient’s body, using acupressure to ease the blocking. This treatment is offered at most Philippine spas, spread out across the country, often nestled in tropical settings, offering a wide array of beauty and wellness regimens.

Accreditations

Several Philippine medical institutions hold international accreditations from the Joint Commission International (JCI) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Filipino hospitals can also undergo accreditation from the Philippines Department of Health.

Who should go to the Philippines for healthcare?

Filipinos are known for their warm hospitality and generosity towards guests. With their English-speaking populace, and modern high-tech medical facilities, the Philippines is a perfect destination for a first-time medical traveller. Prices for healthcare are generally lower than its nearby competitor Singapore. With its all-year tropical climate, beautiful beaches and lush nature, the Philippines offers a perfect destination for anyone combining healthcare with a relaxing recuperation period.

Entry regulations

Except for stateless persons and those from countries with which the Philippines have no diplomatic relations, ALL visitors may enter the country WITHOUT visas. You may stay for 21 days.

Additional information

For a more detailed guide about medical tourism in the Philippines, download this free guide provided by HIM Communications Inc. in collaboration with the Philippine Department of Tourism and Department of Health.