8 Reasons to Opt For Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad

Learn why hip replacement surgery abroad offers cost savings, quality care, and faster treatment compared to options in Ireland/UK.

You shouldn’t have to wait months, even years, for hip replacement surgery. Living with the pain and discomfort – as your hip gradually worsens – isn’t fair. Unfortunately, wait times in Ireland and the UK are extraordinary, leaving patients with a choice: go private in Ireland/ UK or go abroad.

The latest statistics indicate that Irish patients are choosing the latter. The Financial Times reports that medical tourism in central and eastern Europe is soaring at 12% to 15% year-on-year. Considering Lithuania boasts the 2^nd lowest occurrence of complications following orthopaedic surgery, it’s hardly surprising.

But why should you consider hip replacement abroad? The price? The expertise? The quality of care? Find out below

Table of Contents

10 Reasons to Opt For Hip Replacement Surgery Abroad

Cost Savings
Access to High-Quality Care
Shorter Wait Times
Advanced Treatment Options
Opportunity for Recovery in a New Environment
Access to Surgeons with International Training
Integration of Surgery with a Vacation
Personalised Care and Attention

1. Cost Savings

The fundamental reason patients travel overseas is to save money. If they’re unable to get the treatment within their country’s healthcare system and going private costs too much, there’s one option left.

According to a survey by the Medical Tourism Association (MTA), nearly 80% of the demand for medical tourism is driven by cost savings, followed closely by the quality of care.

But how much can you expect to save? Well, the usual hip surgery price in Ireland is up to €14,000 (including hospital fees, ceramic hip implants, and only 2 days in hospital). However, inflation and high demand for private services further drive up the price to new heights.

In the UK, Belfast’s Kingsbridge Private Hospital (as of January 2024) prices for hip replacements began at £13,658.

In contrast, at Kardiolita Hospital in Lithuania, patients pay a fraction of the cost. Prices begin at LTL3,800 (approximately a tenth of the cost elsewhere).

2. Access to High-Quality Care

As mentioned, Lithuania has the 2^nd lowest incidence of orthopaedic post-operative complications. Despite the lower costs, eastern European hospitals, in particular, have impeccable standards of care and the same level of expertise as any other European nation.

Most hospitals are globally recognised institutions adhering to stringent global standards. With fewer complications, patients can spend less, recover faster, and not experience clots, fractures, or tissue damage.

3. Shorter Wait Times

In many countries, particularly those with public healthcare systems, patients can face long wait times for elective surgeries like hip replacements. This is often due to a high demand for such procedures and limited healthcare resources.

In contrast, medical facilities in countries that cater to medical tourists often have much shorter wait times. Because these facilities are for-profit and designed to serve large numbers of patients, they’re run more efficiently and are less burdened by the constraints of a national healthcare system.

In countries like Lithuania, patients often schedule their surgeries within weeks of their initial consultation.

4. Advanced Treatment Options

Seeking hip replacement surgery abroad opens doors to advanced treatment options. What may be prohibitive due to the hip surgery price in Ireland is suddenly possible in other countries. These options include:

Advanced Implant Materials: Utilisation of newer, more durable materials for implants, extending their lifespan.
Enhanced Physical Therapy Programs: Comprehensive and customised rehabilitation plans for faster and more effective recovery.
Advanced Pain Management Protocols: Innovative approaches to manage post-operative pain.
Minimally Invasive Techniques: Smaller incisions lead to quicker recovery and reduced scarring.

At Kardiolita Hospital, for example, we only use the latest, globally recognised 4^th generation implants made from cutting-edge materials.

5. Opportunity for Recovery in a New Environment

Going abroad is always exciting. But, while daunting, recovering in a new city can be extremely relaxing. There are none of the same landmarks to remind you of the worries of home. Instead, you can take the time you need to get back on your feet (literally).

In fact, the change of scenery can be therapeutic, providing a mental and emotional break from everyday life. It doesn’t hurt that Eastern Europe is sublimely beautiful. Plus, it’s a chance to explore a different culture, climate, and environment.

6. Access to Surgeons with International Training

It’s not uncommon for Eastern European surgeons to train abroad. However, most are still training in their home countries. Nonetheless, those who do go abroad bring back new expertise and insights. That makes these surgical teams some of the most well-rounded and experienced anywhere.

Indeed, many of our highly skilled and experienced surgeons have been practising for more than 20 years – delivering the same incredible standard of care.

7. Integration of Surgery with a Vacation

Opting for hip replacement surgery abroad is a chance to broaden your horizons and combine medical treatment with a vacation. Patients can explore new destinations before and after the procedure, experiencing different cultures, cuisines, and landscapes.

Suddenly, what was once a daunting experience is now an opportunity for rest and relaxation. Invite friends and family to visit, or just spend some quality time with your immediate family or partner.

8. Personalised Care and Attention

In public healthcare systems, surgeons and other staff are pushed for time. Trying to cater to everyone means there’s little time for you.

In contrast, many hospitals catering to international patients prioritise personalised care and attention. This means more one-on-one time with healthcare professionals, from surgeons to nursing staff.

With a lower patient-to-doctor ratio, these medical facilities can offer a more tailored healthcare experience, focusing on individual patient care plans, detailed consultations, and a personalised approach to recovery and rehabilitation.