Frequently asked questions
What happens if the medical tourism agency goes bankrupt or disappears after you pay?
The key detail to check is the agency's legal status. An agency registered in France that sells vacation packages including transport and lodging is generally required to hold financial protection, frequently through the APST. A company based outside the EU, or one that presents itself simply as a "facilitator," does not always offer this safeguard. Ask in writing who holds your deposit and what specific guarantee covers it. Whenever possible, pay by credit card rather than making an international wire transfer.
Are medical expenses abroad covered by the national health insurance or supplemental insurance?
As a general rule, planned medical care abroad on your own initiative is not reimbursed by health insurance unless you get prior authorization from your provider, which is rare and strictly regulated. Cosmetic procedures or dental work outside standard care pathways are almost always excluded. When it comes to supplemental insurance, every policy differs: always request a written response before paying, including the specific billing code for the procedure, rather than relying on a phone conversation.
If a complication arises after you return home, who covers the cost of follow-up care?
Without prior agreement, you usually do. A French doctor or hospital will provide emergency treatment, but the bill for a revision of a procedure performed abroad can fall on you if health insurance considers the complication linked to unauthorized care. Before you leave, ask the agency and the clinic in writing whether a revision or correction is included and within what timeframe. Some clinics offer dedicated complication insurance, which is worth comparing against specialized travel insurance policies.
Which overseas clinic accreditation is actually worth anything?
Two international accreditations come up often: JCI (Joint Commission International) and ISO 9001, though the latter mainly certifies management processes rather than the quality of care. You can verify a JCI accreditation directly on their website using their directory of accredited facilities. Also, ask whether the surgeon is registered with their home country's medical board or professional society. A badge printed on an agency brochure does not replace this verification.
How much time should I spend on-site before catching my return flight?
That depends on the procedure, and the surgeon makes the call, not the agency. For certain operations carrying a risk of thrombosis or bleeding, a waiting period of several days is sometimes required before taking a long flight, along with an initial check-up on site. Ask for the minimum stay in writing, and book a changeable plane ticket. Rescheduling a return flight by a few days costs less than flying back too early.