Medical Tourism on the Rise: Solving Healthcare Challenges in the US & Canada with Technology

Medical tourism is rapidly growing as patients from the U.S. and Canada seek affordable, accessible healthcare abroad. With the global medical tourism market reaching USD 100 billion in 2024 and growing 25% annually, technology platforms like heva are transforming how patients connect with international healthcare providers.

This comprehensive guide explores why medical tourism is rising, what challenges patients face, and how AI-powered platforms are making cross-border healthcare more accessible and reliable.

Why do patients from the U.S. and Canada seek healthcare abroad?

The main drivers for medical tourism in North America stem from significant barriers within each country's healthcare system. Learn more about our mission to address these challenges.

High U.S. Healthcare Costs

• Employer-sponsored family plans averaged over $25,000 in 2024
• High deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses burden patients
• Risk of overwhelming medical debt even with insurance coverage

In 2023, 28% of American adults delayed or skipped care due to costs. For many procedures—from cosmetic surgery to dental implants—care abroad offers not just savings, but financial accessibility. Explore affordable treatment options available through our platform.

Canada's Healthcare Wait-Time Crisis

• Extended waits for specialist consultations and diagnostic imaging
• Non-urgent surgeries can be postponed nearly a year
• Median referral-to-treatment wait reached 30 weeks in 2024

These delays carry physical, emotional, and economic costs, motivating Canadians to seek faster treatment abroad. Our platform connects patients with verified international healthcare providers who can provide timely care.

What procedures do patients most commonly seek abroad?

Most Popular International Procedures

• Cosmetic Surgery: Liposuction, breast augmentation, tummy tucks
• Dental Treatments: Implants, veneers, orthodontics
• Bariatric Surgery: Weight loss procedures with comprehensive care
• Orthopedic Procedures: Joint replacements and sports medicine

These procedures offer significant cost savings when performed abroad while maintaining high quality standards. Browse our comprehensive guides to learn more about specific treatments and destinations.

Common Challenges for International Patients

• Information & Trust: Verifying clinic quality and surgeon credentials
• Communication: Language barriers and differing medical practices
• Logistics: Travel, accommodation, and post-operative care coordination
• Payment Transparency: Hidden fees, currency issues, and secure transactions

Healthcare providers also face challenges handling international inquiries, administrative processes, and building trust across borders. This is where technology platforms make a significant difference.

How does technology solve medical tourism challenges?

Modern healthcare coordination platforms like heva are purpose-built to remove friction for both patients and providers, creating better outcomes across the entire medical tourism experience.

Benefits for International Patients

• Verified Provider Information: Curated, credential-checked provider profiles
• Streamlined Communication: Real-time AI chat support in multiple languages
• Transparent Processes: Clear pricing, secure online payments, and step-by-step guidance
• Comprehensive Support: From initial consultation through post-operative care

Benefits for Healthcare Providers

• AI-Powered Patient Coordination: Automated responses and lead pre-qualification
• Seamless Scheduling & Payments: Calendar integration and global payment processing
• Enhanced Digital Presence: Professional profiles that build trust with international patients
• Administrative Efficiency: Reduced paperwork and streamlined patient management

According to a 2025 Deloitte survey, 90% of healthcare executives plan to accelerate digital transformation. heva stands at the forefront of this transformation for medical tourism.

What makes medical tourism successful for patients and providers?

Successful medical tourism requires the right combination of quality healthcare providers, transparent communication, and reliable coordination platforms. When patients have access to verified information and seamless processes, they can make confident decisions about their healthcare journey.

For healthcare providers, success comes from building trust with international patients through professional digital presence, clear communication, and streamlined administrative processes. Technology platforms like heva enable this by connecting qualified providers with patients seeking quality care abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions About Medical Tourism

References

• Grand View Research: Medical Tourism Market Size Report (2024)
• Commonwealth Fund: Paying for It - Healthcare Costs and Debt (2023)
• Fraser Institute: Wait Times for Health Care in Canada (2024)
• Deloitte: Digital Transformation in Healthcare (2025)

Disclaimers

Medical Disclaimer: This article provides educational information about medical tourism trends and technology solutions. It is not medical advice. heva is a healthcare coordination platform connecting patients with providers—we do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All medical procedures carry risk; individual candidacy and treatment decisions should be made in consultation with qualified healthcare professionals.

International Healthcare: International healthcare involves additional considerations including travel, insurance, follow-up care, and regulatory differences. Patients are encouraged to research all aspects and consult with healthcare professionals familiar with cross-border care.

Pricing Information: Cost savings mentioned are estimates based on available data and may vary significantly. Final pricing depends on individual patient needs, procedure complexity, and provider assessment. heva facilitates connections with providers but does not set or guarantee pricing.