Medical tourism is the phenomenon of Americans saving thousands of dollars by seeking treatment in emerging health markets like India and Thailand.

Costly health care at home is the result of several problems, some of which are policy-related, such as expensive medical malpractice lawsuits and prolonged, pricey FDA regulations.

Foreign hospitals and doctors welcome the rise of medical tourism, and organizations are developing to help market their services.

The globalization of health care means more competition and good quality at better prices. Policy makers should ease costly restrictions on American hospitals, doctors, and patients to help them compete.

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