Following the Example and Innovation of WellPoint

Because of the rapid growth in popularity of the medical tourism industry, some U.S. health insurance companies are adding a medical travel offering to their plan. WellPoint Inc. – the largest U.S. health insurer by membership – recently announced an international medical tourism product for their members, and is currently testing it with Wisconsin-based company Serigraph, Inc.

According to WellPoint, those participating in the program have the option of receiving non-emergency procedures from highly qualified doctors and facilities in India. These non-emergency procedures include major joint replacement and additional surgeries that are extremely costly in the U.S. WellPoint estimates that members using the program will save thousands of dollars by participating.

Along with the benefit of low cost surgery overseas, members also receive a manager for their case. The case manager assists with the synchronization of travel, scheduling, the coordination of the actual procedure, and remains with the individual’s case through post surgical rehabilitation and other needed after-surgery care. WellPoint claims that all hospitals participating in the program meet standards set by the American Medical Association, and have gained certification from Joint Commission International.

WellPoint is setting a prime example for other companies in the health insurance industry. By offering this program, they are helping to legitimize medical travel, and provide U.S. citizens with a less-costly option for particular procedures.

View the WellPoint press release about their new medical tourism program at www.WellPoint.com.

References:

www.WellPoint.com