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19 results
The Role of Technology in Modern Health Check-ups

19/02/2024

Advancements in technology have revolutionized modern healthcare, including the way health check-ups are conducted. From digital health monitoring devices to telemedicine platforms, technology has made health check-ups more convenient, accessible, and effective than ever before. Here's how technology has transformed the landscape of health check-ups: Digital Health Monitoring Devices Wearable devices such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, and health monitoring apps allow individuals to track various health metrics in real-time. These devices can monitor heart rate, activity levels, sleep patterns, and even detect irregularities in vital signs. By providing continuous health data, digital monitoring devices offer a comprehensive picture of an individual's health status between check-ups. Telemedicine Platforms Telemedicine platforms enable remote consultations with healthcare providers via video conferencing, phone calls, or secure messaging. This allows individuals to access healthcare services from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need for in-person appointments for routine check-ups. Telemedicine facilitates timely consultations, especially for individuals with limited mobility, busy schedules, or living in remote areas. Mobile Health Apps Mobile health apps offer a wide range of functionalities, including appointment scheduling, medication reminders, symptom tracking, and access to health information. These apps empower individuals to actively participate in their healthcare management, facilitating communication with healthcare providers and facilitating adherence to treatment plans. Some apps even offer virtual check-ups or consultations with healthcare professionals. Remote Monitoring Devices Remote monitoring devices enable healthcare providers to monitor patients' health remotely, particularly for individuals with chronic conditions or those recovering from surgery. These devices can track vital signs, medication adherence, and symptom progression, providing valuable data for healthcare providers to assess patients' health status and intervene as needed. Electronic Health Records (EHRs) Electronic health records digitize medical records, enabling seamless sharing of patient information among healthcare providers. EHRs consolidate medical history, test results, prescriptions, and other pertinent information in a centralized database accessible to authorized healthcare professionals. This streamlines communication, reduces duplication of tests, and enhances continuity of care during health check-ups. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning AI and machine learning algorithms analyze vast amounts of health data to identify patterns, predict health outcomes, and personalize treatment plans. These technologies can assist healthcare providers in diagnosing diseases, identifying risk factors, and recommending preventive measures during health check-ups, leading to more accurate and timely interventions. Remote Diagnostic Tools Remote diagnostic tools, such as home blood pressure monitors, glucometers, and EKG devices, enable individuals to perform diagnostic tests at home and transmit results to their healthcare providers. This reduces the need for frequent clinic visits and allows for more timely monitoring of chronic conditions between check-ups. In conclusion, technology has significantly transformed the way health check-ups are conducted, making them more convenient, accessible, and effective for individuals seeking to maintain their health. From digital health monitoring devices to telemedicine platforms and AI-driven diagnostic tools, technology empowers individuals to take proactive control of their health and enables healthcare providers to deliver personalized and efficient care during routine check-ups. To find out more about the health check-up services we offer, visit our check-up center. *Image by Mohamed Hassan from Pixabay

The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT): Transforming Healthcare Through Connected Devices

13/09/2023

In an age defined by technological innovation, the healthcare industry is undergoing a profound transformation through the integration of the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT). This remarkable development is changing the way healthcare is delivered and experienced, enhancing patient care, improving diagnostics, and revolutionizing healthcare management. In this blog, we will delve into the world of IoMT, exploring its impact, applications, and the future it promises for modern healthcare. Understanding the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) The Internet of Medical Things, or IoMT, refers to the interconnected ecosystem of medical devices, equipment, and applications that collect, transmit, and analyze healthcare data via the internet. This vast network encompasses wearable devices, remote monitoring tools, smart implants, and other connected healthcare technologies. Key Applications of IoMT in Healthcare - Remote Patient Monitoring: IoMT enables continuous monitoring of patients' vital signs and health metrics. Wearable devices and sensors collect data, which is transmitted to healthcare providers in real-time. This technology is invaluable for managing chronic conditions and post-operative care. - Smart Medical Devices: Implants and medical devices, such as pacemakers and insulin pumps, are now equipped with connectivity features. This allows healthcare professionals to monitor device performance and make timely adjustments remotely. - Telemedicine Support: IoMT supports telemedicine by providing physicians with access to patients' health data during virtual consultations. This enhances the quality of care and facilitates more accurate diagnoses. - Medication Management: Smart pill bottles and dispensers remind patients to take their medications and track adherence. Healthcare providers can monitor patient compliance and intervene when necessary. - Predictive Analytics: IoMT data, when analyzed using advanced analytics and machine learning, can help predict disease outbreaks, patient deterioration, or medication responses, enabling proactive interventions. Benefits of IoMT in Healthcare - Improved Patient Outcomes: IoMT enhances early detection of health issues, enabling timely interventions and better patient outcomes. - Enhanced Patient Engagement: Patients are more engaged in their healthcare when they have access to real-time data about their health and treatment progress. - Cost Savings: Remote monitoring reduces the need for frequent in-person visits, leading to cost savings for both patients and healthcare systems. - Efficiency: Healthcare providers can access patient data more efficiently, enabling faster decision-making and streamlined care processes. - Personalized Medicine: IoMT supports personalized treatment plans by providing detailed patient data, allowing for treatments tailored to individual needs. Challenges and Concerns While IoMT offers remarkable benefits, it also presents some challenges: - Security and Privacy: The vast amount of healthcare data transmitted and stored by IoMT devices raises concerns about data security and patient privacy. - Interoperability: Ensuring that different IoMT devices and systems can communicate and share data seamlessly remains a challenge. - Regulatory Compliance: Regulations governing IoMT devices vary, and navigating compliance requirements can be complex. The Future of IoMT The IoMT landscape is poised for continued growth and innovation. As technology advances, we can expect: - Greater Integration: More healthcare devices and systems will become interconnected, providing a comprehensive view of patient health. - Advanced Analytics: The use of artificial intelligence and predictive analytics will become more widespread, further enhancing healthcare decision-making. - Improved Security: As IoMT expands, efforts to strengthen security and privacy protections will intensify. - Patient Empowerment: Patients will continue to take an active role in their healthcare through wearable devices and access to their health data. Final thoughts The Internet of Medical Things is reshaping the healthcare landscape, bringing a new era of connectivity, data-driven insights, and patient-centered care. While challenges exist, the potential benefits of IoMT in terms of improved patient outcomes, cost savings, and enhanced healthcare experiences are driving its rapid adoption and evolution. As technology continues to advance, the IoMT promises to be a transformative force in modern healthcare, ushering in a future where healthcare is not only more efficient but also more personalized and accessible.

The benefits of partnering with a reputable company for medical treatment abroad

24/03/2023

When it comes to undergoing a medical procedure abroad, partnering with a reputable company can make all the difference. Said company can help you navigate the complex world of medical tourism, ensuring that you receive high-quality care and that your experience is safe and stress-free.  In this article, we'll explore the benefits of partnering with a reputable company when you want to undergo a medical procedure abroad. Access to high-quality medical facilities and professionals Partnering with a reputable company means that you'll have access to high-quality medical facilities and professionals. They will have partnerships with top medical facilities and professionals, ensuring that you receive the best possible care. They'll also have access to the latest medical technologies and treatments, which may not be available in your home country. Support and assistance throughout the process Undergoing a medical procedure abroad can be a daunting process, but partnering with a reputable company means that you'll have support and assistance throughout the process. The company will provide you with a dedicated point of contact, who will help you with everything from arranging travel and accommodations to scheduling medical appointments. This means that you can focus on your recovery, knowing that all the logistical details are being taken care of. Reduced risk of medical complications Partnering with a reputable medical travel facilitator can also reduce the risk of medical complications. A reputable company will only partner with medical facilities and professionals who meet strict standards for safety and quality. This means that you can be confident that you're receiving the best possible care, reducing the risk of complications and ensuring a smooth recovery process. Cost savings Partnering with a reputable company can also result in cost savings. They will have partnerships with medical facilities and professionals that offer competitive pricing, meaning that you can receive high-quality care at a more affordable price. They may also be able to negotiate discounts on travel and accommodations, further reducing the cost of your medical trip. In conclusion, partnering with a reputable company when you want to undergo a medical procedure abroad offers many benefits, including access to high-quality medical facilities and professionals, support and assistance throughout the process, reduced risk of medical complications, and cost savings. When considering a medical trip abroad, it's important to choose a company with a proven track record of success and a commitment to safety and quality. With the right partner, you can have peace of mind knowing that your medical trip will be a success. *Image by Sam Williams from Pixabay 

France ranks third in latest World’s Best Smart Hospitals list

17/03/2023

France has ranked third in a list of the world’s best smart hospitals, compiled by a leading US magazine and an online platform specializing in market and consumer data. According to Newsweek and Statista’s World’s Best Smart Hospitals 2023 – the second iteration of its kind – France is home to more than 6% of the most state-of-the-art hospitals in the world. In fact, only the United States (28%) and Germany (7.6%) have more. Furthermore, the AP-HP - Hôpital Universitaire Pitié Salpêtrière in Paris was ranked third overall among all the European hospitals that made the top 300 list. As outlined in the survey’s methodology, “Smart Hospitals use state-of-the art technology to fundamentally rethink how care is delivered within the health system. Taking advantage of these new technologies can not only improve care delivery outcomes and efficiencies within the hospital but can help to drive health goals around prevention, population health and quality of life outcomes.” The final list of 300 facilities in 28 countries represents institutions that lead in their use of AI, digital imaging, telemedicine, robotics and electronic functionalities. More than 4,000 votes were collected in the month the survey was open (June-July 2022) and a score was calculated for each hospital based on the number of recommendations. The survey itself was developed by a global board of renowned experts. Contact us now to find out more about our services. Photo by Pixabay

French hospitals to benefit from 3D printing tech under new deal

19/10/2021

A new deal between a medtech start-up and a 3D printing technology firm will see the latter’s innovative solutions made available across French hospitals. The agreement between French medtech start-up Bone 3D and Stratasys, a polymer 3D printing solutions provider, will afford hospitals direct access to an immediate, localised way of 3D printing essential medical equipment, medical devices and patient-specific anatomical models. Healthcare providers can sub-contract 3D printing hardware and services from Bone 3D, granting them the direct means to fulfil their own production needs on-site, as well as receive dedicated ongoing support from Bone 3D technicians. Jérémy Adam, CEO and founder, Bone 3D said: “Early on in the COVID-19 pandemic, the world witnessed the importance of 3D printing first-hand as it provided a swift and direct means of producing vital PPE to equip frontline healthcare workers, ventilator parts and other critical medical equipment. “However, beyond that, the versatility of 3D printing has seen huge demand from hospitals and medical institutions for a means to create maintenance parts, rehabilitation parts and medical devices. Our Hospifactory initiative will ensure that some of the market’s most advanced 3D printing technologies are made accessible exactly where and when they are needed by surgeons and clinicians across the French hospital network.” The latest partnership between Stratasys and Bone 3D follows last year’s deployment by Bone 3D of 60 Stratasys FDM 3D printers in the AP-HP in Paris, to support the frontline fight against COVID-19. *Image by krzysztof-m from Pixabay 

French healthcare system to benefit from €7bn investment

13/07/2021

France’s healthcare system is to benefit from €7bn worth of investment, which is designed to drive innovation in the sector. Speaking at the end of June, French President Emmanuel Macron announced that public funding would be made available in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country. Part of France’s Health Innovation Plan 2030, €2bn will be invested by the state-owned Banque Publique d'Investissement (BPI) in start-ups and small and medium-sized companies (SMEs) in the healthcare industry. France will also invest €2bn in research for emerging and infectious diseases, biotherapies and digital health. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the plan will allocate almost €750 million for emerging infectious diseases and CBRN (nuclear, radiological, biological and chemical) threats. Another €800m will be dedicated to biotherapies and the bioproduction of innovative therapies that represent 50% of the clinical trials currently underway. These technologies enable the development of so-called personalised medicine by providing therapeutic solutions in oncology, immunology, virology and for rare diseases, for example. President Macron wants to make France the leading European country in healthcare innovation by 2030. He has committed to lift administrative hurdles to speed up organisational changes in the healthcare system. *Image by Parentingupstream from Pixabay

Telemedicine to save healthcare industry $21bn globally by 2025

11/05/2021

Telemedicine will save the healthcare industry a staggering $21 billion in costs by 2025, new research suggests. This represents an increase of over 80% in the next four years, rising from $11 billion in 2021. According to the study by Juniper Research, teleconsultations, a service that enables patients and physicians to interact remotely with patients, will play a key role in enabling these significant savings. However, Juniper cautioned that such savings would be restricted to developed countries where people have access to required devices and suitable Internet connectivity. Indeed, Juniper predicts that North America and Europe will realise over 80% of savings by 2025. The Jupiter report also reveals how telemedicine usage has soared as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, with remote consultations rising from over 280 million in 2019, to 348 million in 2020. By taking advantage of telehealth solutions, doctor’s offices have been able to significantly reduce the number of face-to-face appointments they’ve needed to accommodate, cutting the risk of waiting room Covid-19 infections. However, the report did warn that the significant investment required and obligation to abide by data protection laws, such as the US’s Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), could discourage telemedicine adoption among smaller healthcare providers. “Any deregulation must ensure that patient confidentiality is not undermined,” said research author Adam Wears. “Additionally, we recommend that innovative and emerging teleconsultation services are integrated into existing healthcare technologies, such as electronic health records, to maximise their benefits to healthcare providers.” Jupiter Research’s report, Telemedicine: Emerging Technologies, Regional Readiness & Market Forecasts 2021‑2025, is available here: https://www.juniperresearch.com/researchstore/key-vertical-markets/telemedicine-research-report *Image by Tumisu from Pixabay

Most healthcare execs agree that telehealth has improved patient care - survey

29/09/2020

The switch to telehealth that many doctors and patients have had to make as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic has been largely positive, new research shows. Furthermore, the majority say some of the changes will be permanent going forward. According to the survey of 500 executives in the healthcare industry, conducted by marketing agency Boston Digital, 57% of respondents said telehealth had increased the quality of patient care. In fact, more than half of those surveyed said their organisation had created new portals or micro-sites in response to the pandemic. Only 8% of respondents said telehealth initiatives were not important to their organisation. Most survey respondents said more than 40% of the changes they had made in the face of the coronavirus pandemic would likely remain permanent. However, the findings of the survey, while positive on the whole, do highlight some challenges that the telehealth industry must overcome. The most prominent challenge, the survey found, was patients’ ability to use new technologies.   Speaking to Healthcare IT News, Peter Prodromou, president at Boston Digital, said: “To overcome barriers, including a patient’s ability to understand new programs and associated technology, healthcare providers must implement a seamless user experience and a robust digital marketing strategy that effectively communicates to their diverse patient community.”

What is a tele-ICU?

22/09/2020

In a previous blog — What is telehealth?— we introduced you to telehealth and explained how it has revolutionized healthcare across the world, especially in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic. But while telehealth has proven itself as a very worthy asset for enabling rural communities and those who cannot easily travel to access healthcare, what about when a patient is in a more critical condition and requires intensive care? Well, believe it or not, there are actually telehealth-ICU solutions out there for this very purpose. In a nutshell, a tele-ICU enables remote clinicians to interact with bedside staff to consult on a patient’s care. One centralized care team can manage a large number of ICU locations across many different locations to exchange health information in real time. Using a host of technologies, including A/V conferencing and real-time data streams of patient information from multiple sensors and interfaces, a clinician working from a care center hundreds of miles away can effectively and rapidly care for a patient no matter what time of day or night it is. As highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, anything that minimizes infection risk and the need for PPE, while still allowing clinicians to care for patients is extremely advantageous. While a tele-ICU is a supplement, not a replacement, to the on-site care team, when remote and bedside teams are able to collaborate seamlessly, the partnership elevates bot care and outcomes.

Landmark cancer study to transform treatment

06/02/2020

Cancer is like a 100,000-piece jigsaw puzzle and until now, 99% of the pieces have been missing. But a new landmark cancer study, involving more than 1,300 scientists, has built the most detailed picture of the disease ever, providing an almost complete picture of every type of cancer. Published in the journal Nature, the studies could lead to individual treatments being developed based on a patient’s unique situation, as well as the development of new ways to find cancer earlier. Historically, doctors have been left frustrated when two patients with seemingly identical cancers respond differently to the same treatment. It’s proof of cancer’s complexity and something that has challenged doctors for years. With the Pan-Cancer Analysis of Whole Genomes (PCAWG) project, though, scientists now have a much better understanding of why cells in cancerous growths keep growing uncontrollably. The specific set of DNA changes that cause this to happen are known as “driver mutations”. The project found between four and five fundamental mutations that drive a cancer’s growth. These are potential weak-spots that could be exploited with treatments that attack these driver mutations. “Ultimately, what we want to do is to use these technologies to identify treatments that are tailored to each individual patient,” said Dr Peter Campbell, from the Wellcome Sanger Institute. The study also uncovered some surprising similarities between cancers found in different types of tissue.

Commercial drone successfully delivers vaccine to remote island

20/12/2018

For the first time ever, a commercial drone has been used to deliver an important vaccine to a remote island. Unicef arranged for the drone to carry the vaccine 40km (25 miles) across rugged mountains in Vanuatu, a small Pacific island. The vaccine was given by local nurse Miriam Nampil to 13 children and five pregnant women. While it’s not the first time that a drone has been used to deliver medicine to remote areas, it is a first for a country to reach out to a commercial drone company to help with vaccine delivery. Approximately 20% of all children in Vanuatu do not receive vaccines because getting them there is too difficult. Following the successful trial flight at the beginning of December, Unicef now hopes that drones will play an important role in facilitating remote vaccination programmes going forward. “Today's small flight by drone is a big leap for global health,” said Unicef executive director Henrietta Fore. “With the world still struggling to immunize the hardest to reach children, drone technologies can be a game changer for bridging that last mile to reach every child.” Vaccines have to be kept cool, which presents several challenges when transporting them long distances. If undertaken on foot, the journey would have taken several hours. By drone, however, with the vaccine stored in a styrofoam box with ice packs and a temperature logger to monitor conditions, the delivery took just 25 minutes. Follow this link to Twitter to see some footage of the drone in action: https://twitter.com/UNICEFPacific/status/1070603704414298112

Trois français sur quarte sont favorable à la vaccination !

06/07/2018

Les vaccins destinés aux nourrissons sont très rarement remis en question mais ceux contre la grippe saisonnière et l’hépatite B suscitent des réticences. En 2016, trois Français interrogés sur quatre se sont déclarés favorables à la vaccination en général, selon une étude de Santé publique France rendue publique mercredi. L’enquête, menée en métropole en 2016 auprès de près de 15.000 personnes, montre toutefois que plus de 40% des personnes sont défavorables à une ou plusieurs vaccinations en particulier. Alors que 90% des personnes interrogées étaient favorables à la vaccination selon les enquêtes de 2000 et 2005, elles n’étaient plus que 60% en 2010. La vaccination avait ensuite retrouvé ses lettres de noblesses en 2014, année où 79% des Français étaient convaincus de son intérêt. Cette confiance s’est légèrement érodée dans les deux années qui ont suivi, puisque 75% des personnes interrogées en 2016 ont déclaré être favorables à la vaccination. Seulement 2,4% de la population interrogée est défavorable à la totalité des vaccins, un taux stable depuis 2010. La défiance, héritage des polémiques passées La vaccination contre la rougeole, les oreillons et la <a href="http://sante.lefigaro.fr/mieux-etre/vaccination-depistage/vaccination-contre-rubeole/quand-faut-il-se-vacciner">rubéole</a> (vaccin ROR), le<a href="http://sante.lefigaro.fr/sante/maladie/tuberculose/quest-ce-que-tuberculose-0"> BCG </a>et la vaccination contre la <a href="http://sante.lefigaro.fr/sante/maladie/diphterie/quest-ce-que-cest-0">diphtérie</a>, le<a href="http://sante.lefigaro.fr/sante/maladie/tetanos/quest-ce-que-cest"> tétanos </a>et la<a href="http://sante.lefigaro.fr/sante/maladie/poliomyelite/quest-ce-que-cest"> poliomyélite </a>(DTP) suscitent peu d’avis défavorables (moins de 2% des personnes). «Les réticences concernent très peu les vaccinations pour nourrissons, mise à part celle contre<a href="http://sante.lefigaro.fr/sante/maladie/hepatite-b/quest-ce-que-cest"> l’hépatite B </a>qui cristallise encore des réticences», relève le Dr Christine Jestin de l’agence sanitaire Santé publique France qui publie ce numéro du BEH consacré aux vaccinations. Par contre, la vaccination contre la grippe saisonnière est celle qui recueille le plus d’opinions défavorables (15% de l’ensemble des personnes interrogées âgées de 18 à 75 ans), devant la vaccination contre<a href="http://sante.lefigaro.fr/sante/maladie/hepatite-b/quest-ce-que-cest"> l’hépatite B </a>(13%) et celle contre les<a href="http://sante.lefigaro.fr/sante/maladie/hpv-papillomas-virus-humains/qui-faut-il-vacciner"> infections à papillomavirus </a>(5,8%). «En France, les différentes polémiques touchant certains vaccins au cours des deux dernières décennies - hépatite B en 1998, grippe A(H1N1) en 2009 et, dans une moindre mesure infections à papillomavirus humains (HPV) en 2013 - ont sans doute contribué à faire de la France un pays où l’innocuité des vaccins est mise en doute par la population», notent les auteurs de l’étude. Une confiance variable selon le type de vaccin Les avis défavorables à la vaccination contre l’hépatite B sont plus nombreux chez les 55-64 ans. «Le souvenir de la polémique autour des effets secondaires du vaccin contre l’hépatite B, qui avait notamment entraîné fin 1998 la suspension de la campagne de vaccination à l’école, pourrait expliquer ce résultat», indiquent les chercheurs. Concernant la vaccination contre les infections à papillomavirus humains, les réticences sont plus nombreuses chez les 18-24 ans, qui ont vécu la controverse de 2013. Les 25-34 ans y sont beaucoup plus favorables. «Il est possible que les femmes de cette tranche d’âge, qui ont commencé à bénéficier du dépistage du cancer du col, comprennent aussi beaucoup mieux les enjeux de cette vaccination», analysent les auteurs. L’étude montre que la confiance dans les vaccins diffère selon l’âge. Ainsi, les personnes les plus favorables à la vaccination sont les 18-24 ans, tandis que les jeunes adultes (25-34 ans) comptent la proportion la plus importante de personnes qui y sont défavorables. L’adhésion à la vaccination diffère également en fonction de la catégorie socioprofessionnelle. En 2016 comme en 2010, les personnes les plus défavorables sont celles avec les niveaux de diplômes et de revenus les plus faibles. Selon les auteurs, il est nécessaire de poursuivre «les efforts d’information et de pédagogie auprès de la population générale (...) pour que la vaccination demeure ce qu’elle a toujours été: une des meilleures interventions en santé publique pour améliorer la santé de la population.»  

FAQs

04/07/2016

Frequently Asked Questions (GENERAL)   ·         Why should I come to France for an operation? W.H.O ranked the French health system no. 1 in the world. In France you can find elite doctors who are some of the best at their practice, for an affordable rate: Experienced and world-renowned surgeons Clinics carefully selected for their state-of-the-art technologies and the best level of care and safety Highly-personalised services Complete and appropriate medical treatment An excellent recovery environment Short waiting times: 7 weeks on average (as of validation of your file) The best value for money In addition there is the fact that France is the most visited country in the world. Why not use your recovery period to spend time with your family to discover France and all its richness: culture, food, architecture, etc.   ·         Why should I put my trust in France-Surgery as opposed to than another facilitator? France-Surgery has more than 20 years of expertise in the French and international medical industry. These decades of experience allows us to keep contact with the best professionals and select only the most suitable health professionals, for the most precise medical or surgical treatments. We have received the Award for Best Medical Travel Agency in London, April 2015 and are the only certified medical facilitators in France.   At France-Surgery all your requests will be dealt with professionally for your peace of mind and that of your loved ones. We subscribe to the rules of best practice enforced for medical tourism, including the selection of partners accredited by the French Department of Health: Clinics and Hospitals offering the highest level of security, evaluated and accredited by the French National Authority for Health (HAS), Elite surgeons and doctors are members of the French Medical Association (Ordre National des Médecins). They participate in scientific development of their specific medical fields which are subject of scientific publications both in France and abroad. France-Surgery is an all-inclusive, one-stop service, our services include: Personalized information and professional advice to help you in making your decision Administrative procedure support Negotiation of preferential rates with clinics and partners Putting you in direct contact with the clinic and the specialist Support and assistance throughout your stay (clinic and post-operative care) from collection on arrival and drop-off Management of transfers, visits, accommodation, catering for patients and their loved ones     Do all the doctors within France-Surgery’s network work on the same campus?    France-Surgery’s extended medical network spans 120 clinics and hospitals all over France.   France-Surgery will put you in direct contact with any of our 1500 recommended specialists and surgeons.  It is the patient who usually gets to choose which French city would please them most.   All hospitals within our network are renowned for their excellence. Partners within our network are in located dynamic cities that also have a wealth of culture and activity  - including, Toulon, Bordeaux, Monaco, Béziers, Paris, Lyon, Toulouse and Marseille.   What types of license and credentials do your doctors have? Our team is composed of several reputable physicians and healthcare professionals with over 20 years of experience in the French medical sector. Aside from the obligatory and rigorously strict national qualifications, France Surgery recommended surgeons and doctors are elite members of the French Medical Association (Ordre National des Médecins).  They participate in scientific development of their specific medical fields, which are the subject of scientific publications both in France and abroad. Many of our doctors teach their peers at hospitals around the globe (eg. In USA, India, the UK) the newest techniques which have been developed within their specific field. What training and licensing do French nurses, pharmacists, imaging technicians and lab technicians receive?   French nurses, pharmacists, imaging technicians and lab technicians of go through rigorous, high quality training in order to pass examinations so as to obtain licenses to practice in France.  Nurses are re-certified every few years. Furthermore, intensive care nurses must receive higher training in specialized areas.   What is the rate of infection in France?   Out of the millions of patients treated at French hospitals each year, the rate of infection is less than 7%. This very low rate is because there is an extremely strict and thorough national infection control programme, which is re-evaluated every 4 years; in order to reduce hospital acquired infections in France. Under French law, clinics and hospitals have to collect data for this 4 yearly evaluation, data that includes (but is not limited to): - Yearly consumption of antiseptic hand-wash products for 1000 hospital days, - Incidence rates of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus, - Incidence rates of surgical site infections, - Monitoring antibiotic consumption. This information is then required by law to be made available to the public.   The objective is to constantly strengthen and monitor infection control and to improve the quality of care provided in health care institutions.   How do the international patients communicate with doctors and medical staff?   English is widely spoken by most of the doctors within our network. The France Surgery team can also provide French - English (and vice versa) interpretation both linguistically and of documents in situations where it is necessary.     How do I begin / make an appointment?   If you are interested in our offer you can contact France-Surgery directly at (+33) 953 02 03 09 to make an appointment or email us to request a free quotation.   You can also visit our website at www.france-surgery.com where you can then create your medical file in a secure area. This is where where we invite you to specify your pathology and you can upload your medical history and fill in the pre-diagnostic questionnaire intended for the surgeon or doctor on this highly secure eHealth platform.   Then you will be invited to pay the €50 administrative charges, which will be directly credited to your travel account. The eHealth platform secure area will allow: You to transmit your medical file directly to your doctor The surgeon or doctor can contact you directly You can discuss with your doctor or surgeon, the diagnosis and the organization of your future treatment. When you fly back home, you have the ability to send X-rays or other examination documents, for a more thorough post-surgery follow-up. The definitive cost of your treatment will be determined by the healthcare team, after the analysis of your medical file and the first meeting by telephone or videoconference.     How would you recommend the most suitable doctor?   If you request it, we can make a recommendation for you based on your pathology, the medical information you provide us, your desired city, and the appointment date. Otherwise we will send you profiles of doctors of which you can choose.   ·         How do I organize my stay? Once your medical file has been validated, the France-Surgery team will take over, through your secure area, to assist you in organizing your trip: administrative assistance, travel bookings, etc. Our team will contact you to discuss the organization of your travel as well as for the persons accompanying you, and will make proposals corresponding to your wishes and your budget. All your tickets, vouchers, reservations, information, etc. will be sent via this area.     Does France-Surgery make accommodations for the patient’s family members or friends etc.? Should you and your loved ones consider staying at a near-by hotel, France-Surgery would be happy to help you with reservations at hotels near to your clinic. Generally (for a small fee) one relative may accompany a patient in the single rooms at the hospital.  * It is highly recommend that patients travel with a family member or loved one with whom they are comfortable sharing a high level of privacy. *   Are there fun activities we may participate in outside of the hospital stays and appointments?   Based on the type of surgery you have received, your interests and your doctor’s prescription, France-Surgery can help you and your accompanying loved ones find cultural activities (festivals, museums etc) that are available in the city of your surgery. Other wise, each city in France has its own official website. For suggestions of activities happening in your city at the time of your surgery, you may also visit your cities website (eg. Cannes.com), Which will detail the calendar of events happening in that specific city all year. ·         How is the post-operative follow-up organized? After your procedure and during the recovery period in France, your surgeon may wish to see you again (once or twice) for post-operative consultations. During this time, a nurse will provide necessary care, e.g. changing dressings, medications, etc. directly at the hotel where you may be recovering.   When you return home, your surgeon will remain in contact with you by telephone if necessary, and may even contact your general practitioner to make sure your recovery is going well.   Two new check-ups by your French surgeon will take place at the 2-month mark and at the 6-month mark, by exchanging of X-rays/Images and other examinations through your secure area on the France-Surgery’s eHealth platform (login to your account at france-surgery.com)   Should the recovery be unsatisfactory, the surgeon will indicate to you the procedure to follow, and will consider a possible return for another procedure.  In this case, all healthcare costs (consultation and procedure by the surgeon as well as the recovery stay) will be at the expense of the surgeon and clinic. Transport expenses remain the responsibility of the patient. Do you have a pick-up service and drop off service for the airport? Yes! Based on the patient plan you have selected, France-Surgery can pick you up at the airport, and at the end of your trip ensure your safe and timely arrival at the airport for your flight.  Please provide us with your flight arrival time and patient information, prior to your travel date. Additional service charges may apply.     Where is France-Surgery located and what is nearby?   Our offices are located in Toulouse (south-west) France, which has the affectionate nickname ‘la ville rose’ (the pink city) due to the architecture made of pinkish bricks.   Toulouse is conveniently located just a few hours drive from Spain and our international airport provides easy direct access to many major cities including London, Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Brussels and Munich. Toulouse is a stop on the trans-European network of trains, so you can also easily hop on the train for a more scenic trip to any of these cities. Within walking distance of Toulouse city-centre are many of the most popular hotels, embassies, restaurants and major shopping destinations.   For map information click here.   Does France-Surgery offer cost estimates?   Yes, simply to click the "free quote" icon and fill in the questionnaire at www.france-surgery.com to request a quote and inquire about treatment costs. The total in-patient and out-patient cost estimate includes surgical fees, doctor’s fees, lab tests, medicine, and room fees. It also includes (based on the patient plan you have selected) the assistance of France-Surgery. We assist patients with issues such as translation services (both documents and linguistic), transportation logistics, hotel stays, arranging post-surgery follow-ups by nurses at your hotel, post-surgery comfort packs to help with long flights home, guarantees that you can stay in touch with your French doctor even after you arrive back to your home country. Can my medical costs be covered?   It all depends on the health system of your country. If you are from a country within the European Union, after your treatment stay, you will be given an invoice in English. When you return home, this invoice must be sent to the health care received abroad form that has been duly filled in – this form is available from your health insurance fund – which you send to your insurance company to obtain reimbursement for the health care.   France-Surgery International tel. no.: +33 953 02 03 09 E-mail: contact@france-for-health-surgery.com   ·         Can I pay in several installments? To make your trip easier, France-Surgery allows payment in 3 installments at no additional charge. ·         What are the administrative procedures to follow? For EU citizens – http://europa.eu/index_fr.htm For non-EU citizens – http://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/   We can also support you in the entire administrative process.     What happens should I decide to cancel my procedure?   You have the right to change your mind! If you decide to cancel or postpone your trip, you have up to 15 days in relation to your arrival date, to modify or cancel without charge. After this 15-day period, 100% of the paid amounts will be retained due to late cancellation.   What is the legal recourse to take should something happen during my medical treatment? France Surgery is a medical facilitator; we assist with medical travel and accommodation plans. We furnish information about the best health specialists, hospitals and clinics for specific pathologies and conditions. We do not provide medical services ourselves. Although we use a reasonable level of skill and professionalism in choosing our medical network, France Surgery cannot be held responsible for any errors of the doctors, hospitals / clinics (third parties). In case of medical misconduct by any member of a medical team, the patient is directed to contact the third parties directly. By law all French doctors and clinics have to publicly list the details of their insurance (the number etc should be attached to all invoices). Should something happen during surgery, patients should make note of the insurance contact details of the medical professional or institution. Disclaimer: In terms of liability the medical facilitator (France Surgery) is not legally responsible for the actions of the medical staff.      

Everyday Objects Could Soon Help Diagnose Diseases

30/04/2015

Imagine if objects that you use on a daily basis, such as your toothbrush and your smartphone, could one day help detect serious medical conditions including Alzheimer’s and caner. While it may seem like something straight out of science-fiction movie, a future in which our mobile devices and products found around the house alert us to health issues might not be that far away. That’s because Oxford Nanopore Technologies – a firm renowned for creating palm-sized nanopore detectors and who developed the MinION, a USB gene sequencer - want to get each of our DNA online. Clive Brown, the chief technology officer at Oxford Nanopore, said: "Our big dream is to move towards self-quantification, and we're going to make a version that works on handheld mobile phones. It can measure your blood markers and collate that data to track changes in your daily biology.” Experts believe that fun-size nanapore sequencers contained in day-to-day objects will help with the detection of many diseases. They will allow a person’s DNS to be decoded into a digital format, which can then be compared with a genetic marker to allow for specific diseases to be spotted. Brown added: “You can run it anywhere on anything and that opens it up to other applications. We can embed it in fridges or toothbrushes as it gets smaller — it can become a ubiquitous sensing apparatus.” However, the device will be a just a self-quantification tool and not offer any medical advice.   Photo credit: Oxford Nanopore Technologies

The American Hospital of Paris

03/09/2014

The American Hospital of Paris, Paris Created one hundred years ago thanks to the energy and generosity of the men and women of the American community in Paris, the American Hospital of Paris has continued its tireless development thanks to the support of its donors. Located on the western border of Paris, the American Hospital of Paris is a ten-minute drive from Place Charles de Gaulle-Étoile. Key figures In-patient hospital beds 141 Intensive care units 8 Coronary care units 6 Day hospital beds 20 Nursing staff 345 Medical technicians 225 Accredited physicians and surgeons 386 The American Hospital of Paris offers personalized patient services, safety, quality of care, and respect for all cultures. It covers all major medical and surgical specializations and it offers comprehensive diagnostics and testing, from lab exams to the most advanced imaging procedures (such as MRI, CT and PET scans). The hospital disposes of the latest-generation equipment and innovative techniques (robotic surgery, CZT gamma camera) and proposes premium patient accommodations, such as private suites and rooms with terrace, room service, etc. The English-speaking healthcare staff has a substantial experience in delivering care to international patients: patients of over 100 different nationalities are treated each year. The physicians of the American Hospital of Paris include around 400 private, bilingual practioners, covering the entire spectrum of major medical and surgical specialties. A team of private healthcare professionals works alongside them in patient care. List of departments and units Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery Anaesthesiology Cardiology Dentistry / Stomatology Emergency ENT Gastroenterology General and Digestive Surgery Gynaecology Medical Imaging and Nuclear Medicine Medicine Nephrology Neurology Oncology Ophthalmology Orthopaedics Pediatrics Pediatric Surgery Pneumology Prenatal Diagnosis Psychiatry Rheumatology Urology Vascular The Emergency Department of the American Hospital of Paris operates 24/7, providing care to adults in a medical or surgical emergency. The Check-up Centre has been exclusively dedicated to providing patients with preventive care and screening using the most advanced technologies and up-to-date scientific recommendations. International services:  The American Hospital of Paris has several programs dedicated to serving our international patients: the American Relations Coordinator, the International Team, the Japanese Program and the Chinese Program.

Private Healthcare in France

03/07/2014

Foreigners, in particular the British, have been coming to France for years to experience what is said to be the best healthcare system in the world. It’s no surprise really. Both the medical technologies and the standard of care received here are top notch. Not only do people choose the French healthcare system over the NHS, since 2002 in certain cases the NHS has actively recommended a patient travel to France for hip, knee or cataract surgery. What’s more if referred, the European Court of Justine ruled in favour of England having to pay back British patients for any treatment undertaken. But unfortunately for this reason a referral isn’t necessarily as forthcoming as it once was. If you choose to take out private healthcare and travel to France for medical attention, you can be guaranteed the highest level of care – from consultation right through to recovery. With over 20 years’ experience in the French medical sector, France Surgery prides itself on going above and beyond this nationwide standard, ensuring you have an enjoyable experience regardless of the treatment being carried out. Find out more by contacting our International Patient Services team today. Photo credit: © alexmillos - Fotolia.com

Highest Quality Standard

25/06/2014

And what about French quality standards : The entire healthcare system is regulated by government The majority of specialty activities are submitted to government authorisation, regarding equipment and qualification of medical teams such as for surgery, cancer treatment, interventional cardiology and many others. Regular assessment is operated by French Ministry of Health. The results of physicians practice, procedure numbers, morbidity ,complications are monitored and assessed. All facilities are certified every 3 years by the High Authority of Health – HAS with public access to findings and conclusions. Risk management and quality are a main preoccupation and the proof of this policy is mandatory in the certification process. One of the main concerns about Medical Travel is the control of Health Care associated infection. The French HAS publish annual results and statistics for every hospital in France, data is made public and may be viewed on the French HAS Web Site. All data is validated by European centre for disease prevention and control. Public and private hospitals are of course liability insured for International patients. All physicians need to register with the French Medical Council. Depending on their diplomas and degree course, the French Medical Council authorises the practice of a speciality within strict guidelines. The particular aspect of liability in private practice imply that French doctors have to be a graduate in France, otherwise they cannot obtain insurance against Malpractice. French medical graduation is one of the most famous and is very demanding. The level of training is very high, with at least six years for general medicine, five more years of residency to qualify as a medical specialist and at least 3 more years for a Surgeon. All professionals have a personal professional liability insurance with very high coverage standards. Subscription to this insurance is mandatory to join any hospital or medical team. An essential requirement is made to continuous medical education. France has a very ancient culture of CME to adapt practices to progress and to advance new technologies. So all physicians are really up to date in their technique and practice. State regulation and regional competition have led to very homogeneous standards all over the territory. The same quality of care may be found from Britain to Italian borders. Pluridisciplinary facilities are mainly very modern and fully equipped responding to the highest standards of certification.

MEDICAL EXCELLENCE

03/06/2014

MEDICAL EXCELLENCE FRENCH HEALTHCARE SYSTEM It is one of the highest ranked health systems in the world and often the first in terms of population health level and infrastructures. This system is patient centered with a policy of equal access for all citizens which ensures a high standard of care and consistency in the services provided across the health facilities Network. PATIENTS-DOCTORS RELATIONSHIPS System focused on the Patient-Doctor relationship with a strong personalisation of care protocols. Patients are free to choose their doctor as well as their General Practitioner and Medical specialists or Surgeons. Doctors and surgeons pay attention to the particular wishes and needs of the patient and their family. France is already a multicultural country familiar with and committed to respecting everyone, regardless of culture and religion. France is innovative and leading the way in terms of advanced medical technologies. NO WAITING LIST The high density hospital network and the large number of physicians ensures a high availability level for all kinds of procedures, medical treatments andsurgery, there’s usually no or very short waiting lists. More than 2100 facilities offer care to the population, with the majority of hospitals being multi-disciplinary and familiar with various kinds of pathologies. Access to public or private practice is the same in terms of refunding healthcare costs for French patients and all European union Citizens. SYSTEM OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL PATIENTS The French Healthcare System is open to International patients. Many foreign residents and medical travellers are already taking advantage of excellent health facilities all over France... MEDICAL EXPENSES Payment or refunding may vary depending on the patient status and citizenship, however rates for hospital stays are fixed by the French government. Rates are the same all over the French territory as long as the facility is subsidised and certified by the health administration. Everybody has heard about the French « way of life », luxury, wine and fashion, but who really knows the French Healthcare System ? We frequently hear very good feedback about the healthcare system, however it seems that foreign people view it as a closed system, reserved for the French population and not easily accessible. It is difficult to obtain information about the most renowned medical teams andthe most effective healthcare facilities. No publication or ranking is easily accessible from a foreign country and especially in a foreign language. When discussing one’s own medical case, one has to ask the question of data confidentiality and security, and it’s impossible to know if the required travel is possible, if the considered procedure is conceivable and what the level of at no risk ? How to avoid a last minute cancellation ? And finally consideration for the logistics in a foreign country, communication in another language, even though the majority of French healthcare professionals speak and understand English…  

EXCELLENCE MEDICALE

02/05/2014

EXCELLENCE MEDICALE L'OMS a classé le système de santé français n° 1 mondial. Ce classement reflète l'expertise qu'offrent les médecins et chirurgiens aux patients qui sont soignés en France. La France innove et ouvre la voie en matière de technologies médicales de pointe. Le système de santé français est un savant mélange d’acteurs publics et privés (prestataires, assureurs). L’assurance maladie, financée par les contributions des salariés et des employeurs mais aussi par les taxes est obligatoire. Elle couvre presque toute la population, la complémentaire santé privée est, elle, facultative. Le système de santé français a atteint son objectif en couvrant tout le territoire et en permettant l’accès aux soins sans liste d’attente, le choix et la satisfaction de tous les patients. LE SYSTÈME DE SANTÉ FRANÇAIS Ce système est centré sur la relation médecin-patient avec une forte personnalisation des protocoles de soins. Les patients sont libres de choisir leur médecin ainsi que leurs spécialistes. Avec un réseau d’établissements de santé très dense, un grand nombre de médecins assurent un niveau de disponibilité élevé pour toutes sortes de traitements médicaux et de chirurgies : il n’y a généralement que peu voire pas de liste d'attente. Plus de 2100 établissements de santé sont recensés, la majorité étant multi- disciplinaires et donc familiarisés avec différents types de pathologies. Les tarifs d’hospitalisation sont fixés par le gouvernement français pour tous les établissements qu’ils soient publics ou privés. L'accès aux établissements publics ou privées est le même en termes de coûts de santé et de remboursement pour les patients français et tous les citoyens de l'Union européenne. La Haute Autorité de Santé française (organisme d’Etat accrédité par l’ISQUIA) émet de très hautes exigences de qualité de soins auxquels les établissements de santé français doivent se conformer pour être accrédités. DES CLINIQUES ET HOPITAUX TRÈS PERFORMANTS Cliniques et hôpitaux à la pointe des techniques de soin et des technologies médicales qui offrent le maximum de sécurité, évalués et accrédités par la Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS). Ils offrent également d'excellentes conditions en termes d'accueil, de confort, d'hygiène, de sécurité et correspondent aux normes européennes. Ces établissements sont tous équipés d'une unité de soins intensifs. Les établissements de santé utilisent des technologies de pointe et travaillent en collaboration avec des chirurgiens de réputation nationale voire internationale. Tous les établissements répondent à la préconisation de surveillance des vecteurs d’infections nosocomiales appelée ICALIN (Indice Composite des Activités de Luttes contre les Infections Nosocomiales) et subissent un classement annuel, publié en ce qui concerne le contrôle des soins infections nosocomiales (Données validées par l'ECDC) CHIRURGIENS, MÉDECINS ET ÉQUIPES SOIGNANTES Chirurgiens et médecins expérimentés, inscrits au Conseil National de l'Ordre des Médecins, qui participent activement au développement et à l'amélioration des compétences dans leurs spécialités médicales au travers d'études cliniques ayant fait l'objet de publications scientifiques en France et à l'international. Inscription obligatoire des praticiens au Conseil National de l'Ordre des Médecins garantit aux patients l'application et le strict respect du Code de la Déontologie Médicale. Tous les médecins des cliniques privées françaises ont obligatoirement obtenu leur diplôme en France. Diplôme de Médecine français est l'un des niveaux de formation médicale les plus élevés au monde. La souscription à une assurance de responsabilité civile professionnelle est obligatoire pour tous les médecins. La formation médicale continue est obligatoire et systématique pour tous les médecins français. L'équipe soignante qui prend en charge le patient se compose : D'un cadre soignant responsable de l'organisation du service et de la qualité des soins. D'infirmier(e)s qui effectuent les soins et assurent 24h/24 la surveillance de votre état de santé. D'aide-soignant(e)s qui répondent aux besoins des patients par leur présence 24h / 24 et par les soins effectués sous la surveillance des infirmier(e)s. D'agents de service hospitalier pour l'entretien et l'hygiène de votre chambre PATIENTS INTERNATIONAUX Mais la question reste à savoir comment accéder au système de santé français? Tout le monde a entendu parler du «mode de vie» à la française, le luxe, le vin et la mode, mais qui connaît vraiment le système de santé français? Même s’il est considéré comme un des meilleurs systèmes au monde, les patients internationaux le considèrent comme un système fermé, réservé à la population française et pas facilement accessible. Il est difficile d'obtenir des informations sur les équipes médicales les plus renommées et les meilleurs établissements de soins. Aucune publication ou classement n’est facilement accessible depuis un pays étranger et surtout dans une langue étrangère. Le système de santé français est pourtant ouvert aux patients internationaux. Beaucoup de résidents étrangers vivant en France et de patients venus de nombreux pays profitent déjà de l'excellence des établissements de santé français…

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