Overview

Over the last decade Australians have been heading overseas in droves, to places like Thailand, India, South Korea and Malaysia for medical treatment. But as Australians fly out, a growing number of medical tourists are flying in -- from New Zealand, the United States and increasingly from Asia.

It is Australia's high quality, hi-tech healthcare which is most in demand -- including robotic surgery, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatments and cancer care. Epworth looks after about 600 international patients every year from over 30 different countries including the Pacific Rim, Singapore and Indonesia.

The Victorian State Government, in particular, is keen to market Melbourne as a healthcare destination. "We see inbound tourism of that type as just one part of a broader health export strategy that the state is developing and that would include conferences and would include inbound research support and inbound investment," Victorian Health Minister David Davis said.

State Department Information

Quick Facts
Alerts and Warnings

Securing Your Money When You Travel

Carrying large amounts of cash is obviously unsafe in a foreign country. Also, be careful using your credit cards when you travel. Never give out your PIN, never let anyone else swipe your card and don't ever let anyone take your card out of your sight (example: at a restaurant). Make sure your cards are "Chip" enabled, require a PIN to use and carry in a wallet or case that shields the data from being scanned on the street.

Many clinics are no longer accepting personal checks, cash or travelers checks. Wire transfer and credit cards are your best bet however they can come with high bank fees per use internationally, variable exchange fees and lower daily spending limits when being used in a foreign country.

A Simple Solution to keep your money safe - Travani offers 3 secure travel products to carrying money for expenses and for paying your doctor. There are no credit checks, low fees, and you don't have to worry about having your money or identity stolen off of your card. In fact, leave those important cards at home and get a FREE RFID shield!* Find out more.