Medical tourism agencies offer to coordinate your Korean surgery trip. Here's an honest look at whether they're worth the cost.

What Agencies Offer

Typical Services

  • Clinic recommendations
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Translation services
  • Airport transfers
  • Accommodation booking
  • In-person accompaniment
  • Post-operative support

Advantages

Convenience

  • One-stop coordination
  • Less research required
  • Language assistance
  • Logistics handled

Support

  • Someone to call with problems
  • Accompaniment to appointments
  • Help navigating system

Disadvantages

Cost

  • 15-30% markup common
  • Or commission from clinics
  • May limit clinic choices

Bias

  • Recommend partner clinics
  • Not necessarily best clinics
  • Financial incentive to close sales

When Agencies Make Sense

  • First time to Korea
  • No Korean language ability
  • Limited time for research
  • Complex procedures requiring coordination
  • Anxiety about navigating alone

When to Skip Agencies

  • You've researched specific clinics
  • Budget is primary concern
  • You're experienced traveler
  • Simple procedures

Choosing an Agency

  • Check reviews from past clients
  • Understand their clinic relationships
  • Get clear pricing upfront
  • Verify credentials
  • Ask for references

Alternative: Clinic Coordinators

Many clinics have international coordinators providing similar services free. Contact clinics directly first.