‘Health tourism’ being explored
Tuesday 9th December 2008, 11:30AM GMT.
OPPORTUNITIES to increase income from ‘health tourists’ are being studied.
According to Health and Social Services, three people have come to the Bailiwick this year and paid in full for private operations. Each had seen their own GP and all had surgical procedures, two of which were eye operations.
At least two of those patients came to the island because close family lived locally and they were able to recuperate with them.
The department stressed that Guernsey patient waiting times had not been affected.
‘There has been no disruption to the provision of services to local residents to accommodate these so-called health tourists,’ said a spokesman.
‘While the sums of money involved are not large, it is nevertheless a source of income for the Bailiwick and one which could perhaps become greater.’
The department is now investigating whether the island should advertise such procedures.
- To read Guernsey Press stories in full click here for subscription details. Individual editions are now available online.
Campaigns
Voice For Victims
Voice for Victims is a campaign aimed at promoting the rights of those affected by child sexual abuse.
This is Guernsey
Guernsey Press
Why not investigate proper health cover for locals? Todays paper covers the young man who had to be flown to the UK for treatment, as often is the case for many serious injuries. A Hospital fully equiped with all the facilaties to provide a comprehensive service to locals should be investigated before bringing in ‘Healh Tourists!’.
Report abuse
Perhaps with the money from health tourists funding better equipment would be easier so people wouldn’t have to be flown else where. Perhaps charge non-Guernsey residents more for the privilege.
Report abuse