What to expect

International medical facilities

International medical facilities specialize in caring for patients from around the world.

The best expect to be held to high levels of care, and undertake accreditations and other standards testing to warrant their quality of care and service.

Patients should expect – and ask about – dietary and other personal preferences. While every international medical group we work with speaks English, many also offer service in French, Spanish, Ukrainian, Arabic, and many other languages.

One of the international patient rooms with an adjacent private family room.

Beautiful view with first-class amenities. This hospital treated 900 Canadians in 2023 and has specialty programs for international patients - offering support in 28 languages.

A state-of-the-art medical equipment sterilization facility.

These departments ensure all surgical and clinical equipment is sterile before use in operating rooms. Among the cleanest and best organized we've seen.

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An executive reviews patient care data at 22 hospitals. The data centre monitors safety, inventory, ambulances, staff, and bed use in real time.

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Hospital reception to greet patients, families, guests, and dignitaries. Immediately to the right is the International patient care team.

Surgical

services

  • Surgeries including knee, hip, and spine (scoliosis).

    Several international facilities also have expertise in sports medicine and trauma.

  • This branch of surgery treats the head and neck and their organs.

    Sub-specialties in this field include cochlear implants, balance disorders, and head and neck cancers.

  • For treatment of urinary tract disorders.

  • For treatment of women's health and reproductive organs, including hysterectomies and reconstructive surgery.

A typical process

While international medical services differ among providers, each follows a similar process.

  • Once your referral is made, the facility will schedule a call with you for an intake assessment. You may be asked for medical records such as CT scans or diagnostic reports. Please have these ready. During the call, your situation will be assessed and all provided documentation and imaging will be evaluated.  

  • Once your case is approved by the surgeon, a representative from the International hospital will schedule a surgical date with you that also suits your schedule. Most facilities require payment up front from you, your insurance company, or government provider.

  • You must advise the facility of you flight details. Some international providers will pick you up at the airport and transport you to the hospital.

    You will meet an intake professional who will walk you through the process.  You will be taken to your room or hotel.

  • Treatment often involves imaging, and there is rarely more than a two-day wait between imaging and the surgical procedure.

    Health professionals will discuss your case with you to help you understand the surgical procedure and what to expect aterwards.

  • Medical and clinical teams will monitor your recovery. Many facilities provide rehabilitation and wound-care consultations to help you get back on your feet.

    The length of your aftercare stay will depend on the type of surgery, but normally lasts 3-4 days.

  • Facilities provide a complete record of your procedure, imaging, and medications prior to your return to Canada.

  • Some facilities will also organize your transportation to and from the hotel or hospital and airport.