'Medical tourism' emerging as unique benefit

More than 500,000 Americans travelled overseas for surgeries in 2006 – a number that’s expected to reach the millions this year. One motivation is cost, with savings on surgeries as high as 90%. For example, a $100,000 heart procedure in the U.S. might cost only $10,000 in India.

Many large employers such as the Portland, Maine-based supermarket chain Hannaford are already testing the waters off shore. Incentives to utilize these services vary by plan, but often include choice travel and hotel accommodations, and the ability to bring along a loved one for support.

Please click here to go to the whole article www.voluntary.com/articles.cfm?articleID=105