Blessed with idyllic islands, golden beaches, verdant rain forests and friendly people, Malaysia is a fascinating holiday destination. However, Malaysian tourism does not stop there as it promotes its attractions, ranging from eco-tourism, themed tourism and health-related tourism.
Yes, health-related tourism is packaged under the theme of “health and leisure” and includes wide-ranging activities from how to enjoy treatments and therapies at a spa to medical services. In the past few years, Malaysia has indeed grown as a health care hub. With sophisticated health facilities and qualified personnel, Malaysia has positioned itself as a place where tourists from all over the world can get medical treatment while sightseeing in the country.
In general, Malaysia has three destination areas, namely Peninsular Malaysia and Sabah and Sarawak in Borneo. The capital, Kuala Lumpur, is one of Asia’s most dynamic cities. With a population of some 25 million, consisting of Malays, Chinese, Indians and others, Malaysia is a melting pot of various cultures.
International hospitals are found in various cities and districts in Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur, Slangor, Johor, Kedah, Malacca, Negeri Sembilan, Penang, Perak, Sabah and Sarawak. According to the Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia (APHM), there are no fewer than 40 hospitals.
As there is a wide choice of hospitals, tourists not only can choose a hospital that suits their needs but can also enjoy a tour during their recovery period. Or may opt for a checkup or minor surgery while vacationing in this country.
With health care costs in Malaysia being one of the most inexpensive in the region, patients can undergo treatment, recuperate and enjoy a holiday in Malaysia for much less than it would cost them for treatment alone in another country. For example, standard bypass surgery in Malaysia costs between US$6,500 and $9,000, including a two to three-day stay in the intensive care unit, up to seven days on a ward and consultation, cardiologist and anesthetic fees. “Why pay double the price at home for surgery when you can have this level of service in a beautiful country?” said Leanne, 43, from Australia, who had a facelift.
Malaysia offers a wide choice of state-of-the-art private medical centers boasting an impressive array of sophisticated diagnostic, therapeutic and in-patient facilities. These establishments are well-equipped and staffed to ensure the highest level of professionalism, safety and care. Patients can be assured of quality services in promoting health, preventing disease and full treatment and rehabilitation for all patients and their families through the use of advanced medical technology.
Indeed, lower costs does not mean low quality or services. Hospitals in Malaysia serve their patients with qualified staff, in terms of both medical and administrative personnel. Their specialized doctors are graduates of noted medical schools in the UK, Australia and the U.S. The medical personnel are not only highly educated but are also experienced in medical practices. Most importantly, the medical staff strive to provide a caring and friendly environment, which is vital to a patient’s recovery and well-being.
Meanwhile, hospitals in Malaysia have acknowledgment and official licenses from the health ministry. Internationally, they are generally accredited by bona fide institutions, such as MS ISO 9002 certification and Malaysia Standard Quality of health (MSQH), the standard level of which is the same as that of the Australian Healthcare Standard. This accreditation guarantees that hospitals in Malaysia have professional medical services and reliability.
Malaysia has become a top choice for medical treatment and vacations, especially because it offers highly varied services, ranging from medical checkups to treatment of acute illnesses.
