Medical tourism in Malaysia has been gaining popularity over the past few years, and we take a look at what makes it so appealing to foreigners coming here for treatment.

Low cost

Compared to many western countries such as the United States and Australia, the medical cost can be as much as 40 - 80% lower for some procedures, especially with the current conversion rates.

For example, a heart bypass can cost approximately USD123,000 (RM501,500) in the United States, compared to about RM50,000 here, according to this website. An angioplasty could cost about USD28,000 (RM114,000) in the US, while it only costs RM32,000 here.

Even plastic surgery procedures such as rhinoplasty is much cheaper here, costing about USD4,300 (RM17,000) lesser.

International recognition

Many Malaysian hospitals have received accreditation from local and international bodies such as the Joint Commission International (JCI), Malaysia Society for Quality in Health (MSQH), Australian Council on Health care Standards (ACHS) and the Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee (RTAC) of Australia.

These accreditation give patients the confidence to seek treatment at local hospitals and specialist centres.

Besides that, local health care providers have also won awards given out by Medical Tourism industry players. Some of the awards that have been won includes International Fertility Clinic of the Year, International Specialist Patient Centre of the Year and International Hospital of The Year. You can find a whole list of it here.

Well-trained medical practitioners

Malaysian doctors are known to have studied in prestigious universities in the United Kingdom, United States, Australia and locally, giving them the credibility that patients often look for.

The International Living magazine also mentioned that pharmacists in the country are also well trained and informed.

Easy communication

The two most popular destinations for medical tourism - Penang and Kuala Lumpur - are urban areas where many are quite proficient in English.

This includes our doctors and workers in the health care industry, making communication a breeze for those who know the language.

Most Malaysians are at least bilingual, which is also helpful when it comes to relaying important information to patients.

Excellent facilities and infrastructure

Believe it or not, Malaysian hospitals have up-to-date, world class facilities and infrastructure.

This allows the medical practitioners to perform procedures to the best of their capabilities, with the help of sophisticated technology.

The comfort of the patients is also guaranteed.

The next time you're sick and in need of treatment, look up some of our best hospitals and medical practitioners.