What Does An All-Inclusive Package Mean?
An All-Inclusive package is a comprehensive offer model that includes the majority of essential medical, logistical, and accommodation services related to the gastric sleeve surgery process into a single predetermined price. This means minimizing the obligation for the patient to pay extra fees for hospital expenses, transfers, and generally hotel accommodation during their stay in Turkey before and after the surgery. This model is specifically designed to provide cost transparency and convenience for international patients.
Are All Surgery Costs Included In The Package?
Yes, All-Inclusive packages cover all surgery costs. This includes the surgeon’s fee, the anesthesiologist’s service, operating room usage fee, all necessary medical consumables used during the operation, and the suture materials. All critical medical expenditures during the patient’s day of operation and subsequent hospital stay are reflected in this price. This ensures that the patient will not pay extra for basic medical procedures.
How Many Days Does The Hospital Stay Cover?
Hospital accommodation generally covers a safe and standard period of 3 to 5 days accepted for gastric sleeve surgery. This duration is sufficient for the day of surgery and the critical early follow-up period afterward. The package includes the room fee, standard nursing services, and in-hospital nutrition expenses for this period. The additional cost policy in case the accommodation period is extended due to a medical necessity (complication), excluding the patient’s request, may vary according to the package.
Are Mandatory Pre-Operative Tests Included In The Package?
Yes, one of the most important features of All-Inclusive packages is that they cover all mandatory medical tests before the surgery. These include endoscopy, detailed blood tests, liver and kidney function tests, cardiology consultation, and respiratory function tests. These tests are of vital importance for determining the patient’s suitability for surgery and assessing the risk status. Including this entire preparation phase in the package prevents the patient from paying extra laboratory or consultation fees.
Is Hotel Accommodation Included For Before And After The Surgery?
Hotel accommodation is generally included in the package for the recovery period before the patient returns to their home country after discharge. This period is typically set as 2 to 4 days to allow for final post-operative check-ups. The hotels are luxurious and comfortable (usually 4 or 5 stars) and are selected close to the hospital. Some packages also include pre-operative hotel accommodation for the patient to arrive one day before the surgery.
How Are Airport Transfer Services Provided?
Airport transfer services are an inseparable part of the All-Inclusive package and are provided with private, luxury VIP vehicles. This service covers the safe and comfortable transportation of the patient from the airport to the hotel or hospital, and then back to the airport after discharge. These special transfers aim to minimize patient fatigue and allow them to focus on the recovery process.
Is Long-Term Follow-up (1 Year) Service Included In The Package Scope?
Yes, the 1-year long-term follow-up service, which is vital for a successful outcome, is generally a critical component of the All-Inclusive package. This follow-up includes regular remote (online) consultations with the surgeon, dietitian, and in some cases, a psychologist. This service supports the patient in maintaining a healthy weight loss process, managing nutritional deficiencies, and adapting to their new lifestyle.
Is The Quality Of The Stapler Sets Used For Surgery Included In The Package?
The quality of the stapler sets used for the surgery is one of the most important factors determining the price of the All-Inclusive package. Reliable packages guarantee the use of internationally approved (FDA/CE), high-quality brands of stapler sets. Although the cost of these superior materials increases the package price, they are indispensable for patient safety as they minimize critical risks like leakage.
Is An Extra Fee Charged For Interpreter Services?
No, professional interpreter services are included in the All-Inclusive package for international patients to prevent misunderstandings during the process, and no extra fee is charged. Interpreters accompany the patient during all critical stages, including the initial consultation, medical tests, surgery briefing, and discharge instructions.
Can There Be Hidden Costs Not Included In The Package Price?
It is expected that there will be no hidden costs in reliable All-Inclusive packages. However, situations not included in the package may rarely arise. These are usually the patient’s personal expenses, requests for extra accommodation exceeding the package duration, or rare, long-term intensive care complications. The package contract must clearly state which rare situations will create an additional cost.
Are Dietitian And Psychologist Consultations Included In The Package Content?
Yes, All-Inclusive packages generally include both the mandatory psychological assessment before surgery and the post-operative dietitian follow-up. These consultations ensure the patient’s physical and mental preparation and facilitate adherence to the post-operative nutrition program. The support of this multidisciplinary team is the key to long-term success.
Are Companion Accommodation And Food & Beverage Costs Included In The Package?
Companion accommodation and food & beverage costs generally vary according to the scope of the package. Most All-Inclusive packages provide the companion’s stay in the patient’s hospital room and standard hospital meals free of charge. However, an extra fee may be charged for the companion’s hotel accommodation, or premium packages that include companion accommodation may be offered.
Is The Cost Of Post-Operative Treatment Guaranteed In Case Of Complications?
The guarantee of post-operative treatment costs in case of complications is one of the most critical conditions of the package. Most reliable packages guarantee the treatment of early complications resulting from a surgical error (such as leakage) for a certain period (e.g., 30 days) in the hospital without charging an extra fee. This guarantee prevents the patient from incurring additional financial burden.
How Do Different Hospital Quality Levels Affect The Package Price?
Different hospital quality levels directly affect the All-Inclusive package price. Hospitals with JCI accreditation, possessing advanced technology, offer higher-priced packages due to higher operating costs. These hospitals guarantee higher safety standards, luxurious room comfort, and more comprehensive medical expertise.
Is The Cost Of The Flight Ticket Included In The Package Price?
No, generally international flight ticket costs are not included in the All-Inclusive Gastric Sleeve packages. This is an expense that the patient must cover from their own budget. However, some special or regional campaigns may offer a flight ticket discount or support of a certain amount to reduce the patient’s travel cost.
Is Pre-Operative Liver Diet Planning Included In The Package?
Yes, pre-operative liver diet planning is included in the package as it is a mandatory process for surgical success. The dietitian prepares a personalized diet plan to reduce the fat percentage in the patient’s liver and make the surgery safer. Dietitian consultations during this preparation phase are among the essential services of the package.
Under What Circumstances Can A Refund Be Made Under The Package Scope?
A refund under the package scope is generally made when the patient is found medically unsuitable for surgery (e.g., detection of advanced heart disease) is made. However, in case of last-minute cancellations by the patient or non-compliance with the pre-operative preparation (pre-op diet) recommended by the surgeon, a portion of the deposit or prepayment may not be refunded.
Are Long-Term Vitamins To Be Used After Surgery Included In The Package?
No, long-term vitamin and mineral supplements required for the continuation of surgical success for life are generally not included in the basic scope of the All-Inclusive package. This is the patient’s personal and ongoing expense after the surgery. However, some premium packages may include vitamin support for the first 3 to 6 critical months as a convenience.
How Do The Patient’s Additional Needs Personalize The Package Content?
The patient’s existing illnesses (e.g., diabetes, sleep apnea) or additional needs may necessitate personalizing the package content. For high-risk patients, additional cardiology check-ups, longer intensive care monitoring, or special surgical materials may be included in the package. This personalization may create an additional cost but is mandatory to maximize patient safety.
What Is The Comfort And Safety Standard Of The Vehicles Used For Transfer?
The comfort and safety standard of the vehicles used for transfer is high. VIP transfers are carried out with luxury, chauffeur-driven minivans to ensure non-fatiguing and safe travel, considering the patient’s sensitivity after surgery. These vehicles aim to maximize patient comfort and reduce logistical stress.
Is It Necessary To Return To Turkey For Post-Operative Check-ups?
No, it is generally not necessary to return to Turkey for mandatory post-operative check-ups. Critical first-week check-ups following the surgery are completed in Turkey. Long-term follow-ups (3rd, 6th, and 12th months) are maintained through remote consultations (tele-consultations) from the patient’s home country.
Is A Refund Provided If The Surgery Is Unsuccessful (If Weight Is Not Lost)?
Generally, situations like the patient’s failure to lose weight or weight regain are considered surgical failure and no refund is provided. Gastric sleeve surgery is not a procedure that guarantees results; success largely depends on the patient’s adherence to long-term lifestyle changes and doctor’s instructions.
What Are The Payment Options (Bank Transfer, Credit Card)?
Payment options for international patients are generally bank transfer, single credit card payment, or cash payment. Installment opportunities are generally not offered or are very limited for patients coming from abroad via local banks. These payment methods must be clearly agreed upon before signing the contract.
Can The Accommodation Period Included In The Package Be Extended?
Yes, the accommodation period included in the package can be extended due to the patient’s request or medical necessity. However, every extra day requested outside the package content is subject to a daily additional fee for hotel accommodation. The amount of this extra fee should be communicated to the patient by the hotel and agency during booking.
How Does Hospital Selection Affect The Package Price?
Hospital selection, especially the level of the facility’s luxury, technology, and accreditation, significantly affects the package price. Hospitals in more central locations, newer, and with international accreditations offer higher-priced packages. Patients should focus on the hospital’s critical intensive care and emergency intervention capacity rather than the price.
Is The Experience Of The Anesthesiologist In The Surgical Team Included In The Package?
Yes, the experience of the anesthesiologist in the surgical team is an inseparable part of the package service. The anesthesiologist must be an expert experienced in bariatric surgery, applying special risk management protocols for obese patients. This specialist’s service fee is included in the package under the surgical team fee.
Are Extra Tourist Activities That Can Be Included In The Package Content?
Some luxury All-Inclusive packages may include light tourist excursions, city tours, or short cultural activities to make the patient’s recovery process enjoyable. These activities are generally planned with doctor approval after the first critical days following the surgery and in a non-strenuous manner.
What Is The Fee For Additional Specialist Consultations Required Before Surgery?
The fee for additional specialist consultations (Endocrinologist, Cardiologist, etc.) that may be required before surgery depending on the patient’s health condition is generally completely included in the All-Inclusive package. This is part of the package’s commitment to maximize the patient’s health and safety.
Is There A Limit On The Number Of Companions In Airport Transfer?
The limit on the number of companions in airport transfer may vary depending on the type of VIP transfer vehicle used. Generally, All-Inclusive packages include one or two companions in the transfer scope. For more companions, an additional vehicle or a larger vehicle may need to be rented, which may incur an extra fee.
What Processes Does The Pre-Operative Dietitian Follow-up Cover?
The pre-operative dietitian follow-up generally covers a 2-4 week period focused on shrinking the patient’s liver before the surgery. This process, the dietitian monitors the patient’s nutrition through online meetings, tracks weight loss, and provides necessary motivation. This detailed follow-up is critically important for the safety of the surgery.
Are Medications And Medical Consumables Within The Hospital Included In The Package?
Yes, all medications, dressings, and medical consumables (painkillers, anti-clotting injections, etc.) used in the hospital during and until discharge are included in the package. This prevents the patient from worrying about medication costs during the hospital period.
What Is The Quality Standard Of The Accommodation Included In The Package Price?
The quality standard of the accommodation included in the package price is high. Hospitals generally prefer internationally standard, clean, and comfortable (4 or 5-star) hotels they have agreements with. Accommodation is selected to best support the patient’s rest and recovery process.
Is An Extra Fee Charged For Patients With High BMI?
When the patient’s Body Mass Index (BMI) is very high (e.g., above 55), this may imply technical difficulty and increased risk. For such high-risk cases, an additional risk premium may be added to the package due to the surgery potentially taking longer or requiring special equipment. This situation must be transparently communicated beforehand.
Is The Need For Post-Operative Aesthetic Surgery Included In The Package?
No, the need for aesthetic surgery (tummy tuck, arm lift) required to address loose skin after significant weight loss following gastric sleeve surgery is not included in the All-Inclusive package. This is a cosmetic procedure that requires a separate surgical branch and a separate cost.
Can I Review The Contract In English Before Making Payment?
Yes, before making payment, you can review all All-Inclusive package contracts and guarantee conditions in English (or your requested native language) in detail, as per your legal rights. Reliable agencies are obliged to present all terms transparently.
Are Special Dietary Foods And Supplements After Surgery Included In The Package?
Special dietary foods and long-term supplements (protein powders, special liquid foods) required to be used after the patient is discharged from the hospital are generally not included in the package. These are additional products that support the patient’s healthy recovery process but must be covered by the patient.
How Is The Deposit Refund Made In Case Of Surgery Cancellation?
In case of surgery cancellation due to the patient’s own request, the deposit paid is generally not refunded to cover the reservation, pre-consultation, and administrative costs of the hospital and agency. However, if the doctor decides that the patient is medically unsuitable for surgery based on medical tests, a portion of the deposit may be refunded.
What Is The Fee For Blood Tests During The Patient’s Long-Term Follow-up Process?
The fee for blood tests (vitamin, mineral, iron levels, etc.) that need to be done during the patient’s long-term follow-up process is not included in the package. These tests are performed in the patient’s home country and are subject to the local healthcare institution’s pricing. The results are sent to the surgical team for remote consultation.
Under What Circumstances Is It Possible For The Patient To Be Discharged Early?
The patient’s early discharge is only possible with the surgical team’s approval, provided the patient’s condition is stable and there is no risk of complications. Early discharge is not dependent on the patient’s request, but entirely on medical safety. Early discharge generally does not lead to a discount on the package price.
Can Air Ambulance Return Insurance Be Included In The Package?
Air ambulance return insurance is not included in standard All-Inclusive packages, but it is strongly recommended that patients purchase it for an additional cost. This special insurance guarantees the safe medical transfer of the patient to their home country in case of rare but life-threatening complications.
What Step Should I Start With For A Reliable All-Inclusive Package?
To start a healthy journey with a reliable All-Inclusive package, you should first contact a licensed medical tourism consulting firm that works with transparent pricing, internationally accredited hospitals, and experienced surgeons.
You can contact Cure Holiday to get information about personalized All-Inclusive packages that offer all these comprehensive services with high safety standards and to make a healthy start.
