Questions to ask a clinic before treatment abroad

Who will provide the care

Ask for the name of the clinician responsible for your assessment and treatment. Check their relevant qualifications and current authority to practise, and ask who else performs parts of the procedure. If the clinician works at more than one location, confirm the actual treatment site.

Ask which body authorises the clinic and how you can verify the record. An award, professional membership, certificate or affiliation may have a different meaning from a licence or accreditation. For an accreditation claim, check the issuing organisation, the exact facility or department covered and the expiry date.

Why is this plan being recommended

Ask what the assessment has shown, which alternatives are relevant and what happens if you choose to wait or not proceed. The clinician should explain the expected benefits, limitations and material risks in a language you understand.

If a technique, device or add-on is proposed, ask what it changes for your situation and what evidence supports it. A brand name, high price or attractive photograph does not establish that it is the right option.

What does the proposal include

Ask for the treatment, appointment sequence, included items and exclusions in writing. Clarify what still depends on examination, tests or healing, and what could change the price. Confirm who explains a revised plan and how you can decide before additional care is undertaken.

What happens after treatment

Ask which reviews must happen before departure and who will look after you once you are home. Record routine and urgent contact details, arrangements outside normal hours and the costs of unplanned care or another visit.

Ask what documents you will receive and how another clinician can obtain the information needed for continuing care. Agree travel timing with the clinical team rather than treating a package itinerary as medical advice.

What will I be agreeing to

Read the treatment consent, service terms, payment and cancellation information before committing. Ask for clarification of anything unclear, including how your information will be shared and which organisation is responsible for each part of the visit.

Take the time you need to consider the answers. If a significant question remains unanswered, resolve it before paying or making non-refundable travel arrangements.