India’s Making Costs Disappear

How Much Do Invisalign Braces Cost:  Is It Really Affordable?

Lingerie model Danielle Bux recently paid 1,500 pounds for her Invisalign braces in preparation for her wedding day.  English TV personality and model Abbey Clancey credits her Invisalign time for helping increase her earnings dramatically.  What do these two have in common with the average mal-dentured patient?  Unfortunately, very little in terms of budget.  Most patients don’t have the disposable income to pay $3,000 to $8,000 for straighter teeth without the stigma of wearing braces.  And not all insurance policies cover Invisalign braces. 

These days, no one has to know you’re perfecting your smile.  Still the technological advances that have brought us Invisalign braces also carry with them a hefty price tag.  There’s a movement afoot in the United States to make healthcare more affordable.  One of the options on the table is universal health care; essentially giving all Americans the same access to care.  The theory behind universal health care is noble; but put into practice, there could be many unintended consequences.  For example, Invasilgn braces, given their cosmetic appeal and high price tag, could increasingly become "less covered" under insurance plans designed to provide treatment for all.

Can Medical Tourism Help Me Get Care I Can Afford?

Medical tourism has been helping roughly 100,000 patients each year from countries like Britain that already have a form of universal health care.  In those countries, patients often experience excessive wait times—even for urgent medical needs—and limited selection on procedures.  India has seen and responded to the need for quality, affordable health care without sacrificing timeliness or selection.  For example, a patient could plan a medical tourism trip to India for help finding affordable Invisalign braces.  While there, they could receive the same quality of care, if not better, and enjoy a vacation in the process. 

Medical Tourism Helps Patients Save, but Is It Safe?

Cost isn’t the only thing to consider when traveling abroad.  You must also consider safety.  When contemplating medical tourism, don’t be shy about asking for help.  Research the country, city, and hospital to which you’ll be traveling.  Learn about the customs and culture, so you don’t offend anyone.  And, plan on taking someone with you.