FAQ

General Questions About Medical Tourism

What exactly is medical tourism?

Medical tourism refers to the practice of traveling outside your home country to receive medical care. For Canadians, it offers a solution to the long wait times in our public healthcare system. Rather than waiting months or years for necessary procedures, medical tourism allows you to access quality care within weeks at accredited international facilities, often at a fraction of Canadian private healthcare costs.

Is medical tourism safe?

When properly researched and coordinated, medical tourism can be very safe. The key factors affecting safety are:

  1. Facility accreditation – We exclusively work with internationally accredited hospitals, primarily those with Joint Commission International (JCI) certification, which applies standards equal to or exceeding Canadian requirements
  2. Surgeon credentials – Our partner surgeons are typically trained at prestigious institutions in the US, UK, or Canada and specialize in the specific procedures they perform
  3. Infection control protocols – Our recommended facilities maintain infection rates comparable to or better than Canadian hospitals (typically 1.1-3.8% vs. 1.9-4.5% in Canada)
  4. Proper pre-screening – We ensure you’re a suitable candidate for travel and the specific procedure
  5. Comprehensive aftercare – Planned recovery with appropriate medical supervision

Research published in the International Journal of Healthcare Quality Assurance (2023) found that complication rates at top international hospitals were comparable to those in Western countries when patients were properly screened and prepared.

How do international healthcare standards compare to Canada’s?

Top international hospitals often meet or exceed Canadian standards in many respects:

  • JCI accreditation requires facilities to meet 1,300+ measurable standards
  • Nurse-to-patient ratios are often better (1:2-1:4 compared to 1:4-1:6 in Canada)
  • Equipment and technology is frequently more advanced due to robust private investment
  • Specialist experience is often deeper due to higher procedure volume and specialization
  • Hospitality aspects typically surpass Canadian norms with private rooms standard
  • Wait times are drastically shorter, reducing pre-surgical deterioration

Many international facilities publish their quality metrics, including infection rates, readmissions, and patient satisfaction scores, allowing for transparent comparison.

How much money can I save by having surgery abroad?

Cost savings vary by procedure and destination but are typically substantial:

  • Orthopedic procedures (hip/knee replacements): 65-80% savings
  • Cardiac procedures (bypass, valve replacement): 70-90% savings
  • Dental work (implants, full mouth reconstruction): 60-75% savings
  • Spinal surgeries (fusion, discectomy): 60-85% savings
  • Cosmetic procedures: 50-70% savings

For example, a typical knee replacement that costs $28,000 at a private Canadian facility might cost $9,000-$13,000 in Mexico or $6,500-$10,000 in India. Even after factoring in travel and accommodation, the savings remain significant.

What about the ethics of medical tourism?

We approach medical tourism with careful ethical consideration:

  1. We primarily serve Canadians facing prohibitive wait times for necessary procedures, not elective cosmetic care
  2. We partner only with facilities that provide fair wages and working conditions for their staff
  3. We ensure our partner hospitals serve their local populations alongside international patients
  4. We maintain transparent business practices without hidden referral fees
  5. We provide comprehensive education about both benefits and risks
  6. We actively follow up to ensure quality outcomes

Rather than diverting resources from local populations, the international hospitals we work with typically use revenue from international patients to subsidize care for local communities and invest in improved healthcare infrastructure.

About Our Services

What exactly does SkipTheWait.ca do?

We provide comprehensive medical tourism facilitation services for Canadians seeking faster surgical care abroad. Specifically, we:

  1. Educate you about international options for your specific medical needs
  2. Connect you with accredited facilities and qualified surgeons abroad
  3. Coordinate all aspects of your medical journey through our concierge service
  4. Advocate for you throughout the process, ensuring quality care and communication
  5. Support your return to Canada and follow-up care coordination

Our services range from basic facility recommendations to comprehensive end-to-end management of your entire medical journey.

What’s included in your $500 concierge service?

Our comprehensive concierge service includes:

Medical Coordination:

  • Personalized facility and surgeon recommendations based on your specific condition
  • Medical record compilation, translation, and secure transfer
  • Direct communication with international medical teams
  • Pre-operative consultation arrangements
  • Coordination between your Canadian doctors and international providers
  • Post-operative care planning

Travel Logistics:

  • Flight selection and booking assistance
  • Airport transfers in both Canada and your destination
  • Accommodation arrangements appropriate for post-surgical recovery
  • Medical transport scheduling when needed
  • Visa and travel documentation assistance
  • Companion arrangements if applicable

Continuous Support:

  • 24/7 emergency contact throughout your journey
  • Regular check-ins during your time abroad
  • Immediate problem-solving for any issues that arise
  • Language interpretation when needed
  • Cultural guidance and local information

Return Planning:

  • Follow-up care coordination in Canada
  • Medical record organization and return to Canadian providers
  • Remote consultation arrangements with your international surgeon
  • Medication transition planning
  • Rehabilitation recommendations

This flat fee covers our professional services only and is separate from the actual costs of your medical care, travel, and accommodation. It represents exceptional value compared to the 40+ hours of research and coordination you would otherwise need to manage independently.

Do you receive commissions from hospitals for patient referrals?

No. Unlike many medical tourism facilitators, we do not accept referral fees or commissions from healthcare providers. This is a fundamental principle that allows us to make unbiased recommendations based solely on quality and suitability for your needs.

Our revenue comes exclusively from the transparent fees we charge to our clients—either the comprehensive concierge service fee or our basic consultation fee. This business model ensures we work entirely for you, not for the hospitals or surgeons.

Which destinations do you work with?

We currently facilitate medical travel to:

Mexico:

  • Proximity: 2.5-5 hour flights from major Canadian cities
  • Specialties: Orthopedics, dental, bariatric, cosmetic
  • Key cities: Tijuana, Cancun, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta
  • Cost savings: 60-70% compared to Canadian private care
  • JCI-accredited facilities: 7

United States:

  • Proximity: Often driving distance for border communities
  • Specialties: Complex surgeries, cutting-edge treatments
  • Key locations: Border states and centers of excellence nationwide
  • Cost comparison: 10-20% higher than Canadian private care
  • JCI-accredited facilities: 300+

Costa Rica:

  • Proximity: 5-7 hour flights from major Canadian cities
  • Specialties: Dental, cosmetic, orthopedic
  • Key cities: San José
  • Cost savings: 50-65% compared to Canadian private care
  • JCI-accredited facilities: 2

Thailand:

  • Proximity: 15-20 hour flights from major Canadian cities
  • Specialties: Orthopedic, cardiac, cosmetic, gender affirmation
  • Key cities: Bangkok, Phuket
  • Cost savings: 65-75% compared to Canadian private care
  • JCI-accredited facilities: 66

India:

  • Proximity: 14-20 hour flights from major Canadian cities
  • Specialties: Cardiac, orthopedic, fertility, neurosurgery
  • Key cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai
  • Cost savings: 70-85% compared to Canadian private care
  • JCI-accredited facilities: 38

We select destinations based on quality of care, specialization, cost-effectiveness, and travel feasibility for Canadians.

How do you select the hospitals and doctors you recommend?

Our facility and surgeon selection process is rigorous and includes:

  1. Accreditation verification – We prioritize JCI-accredited facilities that meet 1,300+ measurable standards
  2. On-site assessment – Our team personally visits and evaluates each facility
  3. Credential verification – We confirm medical education, board certifications, and specialization
  4. Procedure volume analysis – We select surgeons who perform your specific procedure regularly
  5. Complication rate review – We examine published outcomes and complication statistics
  6. Canadian patient experience – We collect detailed feedback from previous patients
  7. Communication assessment – We evaluate English proficiency and receptiveness to questions
  8. Aftercare protocols – We verify comprehensive recovery support
  9. Follow-up capabilities – We ensure international providers can support post-return care
  10. Transparency evaluation – We require clear, detailed pricing and procedure information

This multi-step verification process ensures we only recommend providers who meet our stringent quality standards.

Can I choose my own surgeon or hospital instead of using your recommendations?

Yes. While we provide carefully researched recommendations based on your specific needs, you always maintain complete decision-making control. If you have a particular facility or surgeon in mind, we’re happy to:

  1. Provide objective information about your preferred provider
  2. Coordinate with your chosen facility
  3. Manage all logistics regardless of which accredited facility you select

Our goal is to support your informed choice, not to dictate where you receive care.

The Medical Journey

How long does the whole process typically take?

From initial consultation to receiving treatment abroad, the timeline typically follows this pattern:

  1. Initial consultation and assessment: 1-2 days
  2. Medical record review and recommendations: 3-5 days
  3. Selection of facility and surgeon: 1-3 days (your decision pace)
  4. Appointment scheduling and surgical booking: 2-7 days
  5. Pre-operative testing and clearance: 7-14 days (if needed)
  6. Travel arrangements and logistics planning: 3-5 days
  7. Departure, pre-surgical consultation, and procedure: Typically 1-3 days after arrival
  8. Recovery period before return travel: 5-14 days depending on procedure
  9. Return to Canada and follow-up care coordination: 1-2 days

Most patients complete the entire process from first contact to surgery within 3-6 weeks, though urgent cases can be expedited, and some patients choose a longer planning timeline.

This compares dramatically to Canadian wait times, which average 19.8 weeks from specialist consultation to treatment, with many procedures exceeding 28 weeks according to the latest Fraser Institute report.

What about language barriers at international hospitals?

Language considerations are an important aspect of international care:

  • Top international hospitals have English-speaking international patient departments
  • Our recommended facilities in Mexico, Thailand, and India maintain English-proficient staff
  • Key medical personnel (surgeons, primary nurses) at our partner facilities speak English
  • Our concierge service includes interpretation support when needed
  • Written materials are provided in English
  • Medical records are translated both pre-arrival and post-treatment
  • 24/7 phone support from our team can assist with any communication challenges

Many international surgeons completed training in English-speaking countries and communicate fluently. For destinations where English is less common among support staff, we ensure appropriate interpretation resources are available.

Will my provincial health insurance cover any part of my treatment abroad?

Provincial health insurance coverage for planned treatment abroad is limited:

  • Standard coverage: Generally, provincial plans do not cover elective procedures abroad
  • Out-of-country emergency care: Coverage exists but doesn’t apply to planned procedures
  • Prior approval process: Some provinces offer coverage for services unavailable in Canada, but this requires advance authorization and applies to very specific circumstances

While provincial coverage is unlikely, we assist you in exploring all possible coverage options, including:

  • Private extended health insurance: Some plans offer limited coverage
  • Health spending accounts: Can sometimes be applied to medical travel
  • Tax deductions: Medical expenses abroad may qualify as tax deductions
  • Workplace benefits: Some employers have specific provisions for expedited care

We provide documentation to support insurance claims and tax filings regardless of coverage probability.

What about travel insurance for medical tourism?

Standard travel insurance typically excludes pre-existing conditions and planned medical procedures. However, specialized medical tourism insurance is available and recommended:

  • Complications insurance: Covers unexpected complications from your procedure for a defined period (typically 6-12 months)
  • Travel complication coverage: Protects against travel disruptions related to your medical condition
  • Trip cancellation protection: Covers costs if your procedure must be postponed for medical reasons

We assist in securing appropriate medical tourism insurance through specialized providers like April International and Seven Corners, typically ranging from $300-$800 depending on your procedure and destination.

How long should I stay in the destination country after surgery?

Recommended recovery time abroad varies by procedure:

Orthopedic Procedures:

  • Hip replacement: 10-14 days
  • Knee replacement: 10-14 days
  • Shoulder surgery: 7-10 days
  • ACL reconstruction: 7-10 days

Cardiac Procedures:

  • Bypass surgery: 14-21 days
  • Valve replacement: 14-21 days
  • Angioplasty/stent: 5-7 days
  • Pacemaker implantation: 7-10 days

Spinal Procedures:

  • Spinal fusion: 14-21 days
  • Discectomy: 10-14 days
  • Laminectomy: 10-14 days

General Surgery:

  • Hernia repair: 5-7 days
  • Gallbladder removal: 5-7 days
  • Bariatric surgery: 7-14 days

Ophthalmologic Procedures:

  • Cataract surgery: 3-5 days
  • LASIK: 2-3 days
  • Glaucoma surgery: 5-7 days

These timeframes ensure you’re medically stable for travel and have received appropriate initial follow-up care. Your surgeon will make specific recommendations based on your procedure and recovery progress.

What if complications arise after I return to Canada?

Our comprehensive approach to post-return care includes:

  1. Pre-departure planning – Before you leave the international facility, we ensure you have:
    • Detailed discharge instructions
    • Complete medical records in English
    • Medication list with Canadian equivalents
    • Contact information for your international medical team
    • Specific guidance for potential complications
  2. Canadian physician coordination – We help arrange:
    • Prompt follow-up with your family doctor
    • Specialist appointments when needed
    • Transfer of all medical records
    • Direct communication between international and Canadian providers if necessary
  3. Ongoing international support – Your international medical team remains accessible:
    • Most partners offer telemedicine follow-up consultations
    • Direct email access to your surgeon for questions
    • Review of any new imaging or test results
    • Consultation with Canadian providers if complications arise
  4. Insurance coverage – If you’ve purchased recommended medical tourism insurance:
    • Complications treatment is typically covered for 6-12 months
    • Coverage applies to both related emergency care and follow-up needs

The vast majority of our patients experience normal recovery without complications. For the small percentage who require additional care, our established protocols ensure prompt and appropriate attention.

Can I bring a companion with me?

Absolutely, and we strongly encourage it for most procedures. Having a companion provides:

  1. Practical support during recovery (assistance with mobility, meals, medications)
  2. Emotional support throughout the medical journey
  3. Communication assistance with medical staff
  4. Second set of ears for medical instructions and information
  5. Travel assistance during return to Canada

Our concierge service includes:

  • Companion flight booking coordination
  • Appropriate accommodation arrangements (often adjoining rooms or suites)
  • Transportation planning for two people
  • Orientation information for companions about local resources
  • Guidance on how companions can best support your recovery

Many of our international hospital partners offer companion accommodations within the hospital itself, and recovery facilities typically provide companion rooms at reasonable rates.

Financial Considerations

How much does surgery abroad typically cost?

The cost varies significantly by procedure and destination, but here are typical ranges for common procedures (in Canadian dollars):

Orthopedic Procedures:

  • Hip Replacement: $7,000-$16,000 (vs. $25,000-$30,000 in Canadian private clinics)
  • Knee Replacement: $6,500-$14,000 (vs. $20,000-$28,000 in Canadian private clinics)
  • Shoulder Surgery: $6,000-$13,000 (vs. $18,000-$25,000 in Canadian private clinics)

Cardiac Procedures:

  • Coronary Bypass: $7,000-$30,000 (vs. $70,000-$90,000 in Canadian private clinics)
  • Heart Valve Replacement: $8,000-$28,000 (vs. $65,000-$85,000 in Canadian private clinics)
  • Angioplasty with Stent: $5,000-$17,000 (vs. $25,000-$35,000 in Canadian private clinics)

Spinal Procedures:

  • Spinal Fusion: $10,000-$25,000 (vs. $65,000-$75,000 in Canadian private clinics)
  • Discectomy: $7,000-$15,000 (vs. $25,000-$35,000 in Canadian private clinics)
  • Laminectomy: $6,000-$15,000 (vs. $22,000-$32,000 in Canadian private clinics)

Additional Costs to Consider:

  • Flights: $800-$2,500 depending on destination
  • Accommodation: $1,200-$3,000 for 2 weeks
  • Meals and incidentals: $500-$1,000
  • Medical tourism insurance: $300-$800
  • Our concierge service: $500 (flat fee)

Even after factoring in all these costs, most patients save 50-70% compared to Canadian private healthcare options.

How do I pay for medical care abroad?

Payment methods vary by facility, but typically include:

  1. Bank wire transfer – Most common for larger deposits and balances
  2. Credit card – Often accepted with transaction fees (typically 3-5%)
  3. Cash – Some facilities offer discounts for cash payment (though we recommend caution with carrying large sums)
  4. Payment plans – Available at select facilities, typically requiring a larger deposit

The typical payment structure includes:

  • 10-30% deposit to secure your surgical date
  • Remaining balance due prior to or upon arrival
  • Separate payments for hospital fees and surgeon fees in some locations
  • Transparent invoicing with itemized costs

We provide guidance on the most secure and cost-effective payment methods for your specific destination, including managing currency exchange to minimize fees.

What financing options are available?

Several financing avenues exist for medical tourism:

  1. Medical travel loans from specialized financial services companies
  2. Healthcare credit cards like CareCredit (for US procedures)
  3. Personal lines of credit from Canadian financial institutions
  4. Home equity lines of credit (typically lowest interest rates)
  5. Retirement fund loans (RRSP loans in specific circumstances)

We can connect you with financial advisors experienced in medical tourism financing who understand the unique considerations involved.

Are medical expenses abroad tax-deductible in Canada?

Yes, medical expenses incurred abroad can qualify for the Medical Expense Tax Credit in Canada, provided they meet certain criteria:

  1. The expenses must be for medical services or procedures
  2. The care must be necessary and provided by qualified medical practitioners
  3. Proper documentation and receipts must be maintained

Eligible expenses typically include:

  • Actual medical and surgical costs
  • Travel costs if care isn’t available within 40km of your home
  • Accommodation near the medical facility
  • Meals in limited circumstances
  • Certain companion expenses when medically necessary

We provide comprehensive documentation suitable for tax filing purposes and can refer you to accountants familiar with medical tourism tax considerations.

Quality and Safety

How can I verify the qualifications of international surgeons?

Verifying surgeon credentials is a critical step that we facilitate through:

  1. Credential verification – We confirm medical education, residency training, board certifications, and specialization through primary sources
  2. Publication and research review – We examine academic contributions and ongoing education
  3. Procedure volume analysis – We verify the number of similar procedures performed annually
  4. Video consultation arrangement – We coordinate direct discussion with potential surgeons
  5. Outcome data review – We request complication rates and success metrics
  6. Canadian patient references – We connect you with previous patients when possible
  7. Hospital privileges verification – We confirm standing at multiple facilities
  8. Professional society membership – We verify participation in relevant specialty organizations

Many international surgeons trained at prestigious institutions in the US, UK, Canada, or Australia and maintain international certifications and continuing education.

How do I know if I’m a good candidate for medical travel?

Medical travel suitability depends on several factors that we help assess:

Medical Factors:

  • Stable enough for international travel
  • Condition suitable for elective rather than emergency treatment
  • Clear diagnosis with defined treatment plan
  • No contraindications for the specific procedure
  • Realistic expectations about outcomes

Personal Factors:

  • Willingness to travel internationally
  • Comfort level with cultural differences
  • Availability for appropriate recovery time
  • Support system for post-return recovery
  • Ability to communicate effectively with providers

Practical Considerations:

  • Financial resources for treatment and travel
  • Valid passport and ability to obtain necessary visas
  • Availability of appropriate follow-up care in Canada
  • Time flexibility for travel and recovery

Our thorough pre-screening process helps ensure you’re an appropriate candidate for medical travel, and we’ll advise against it if we believe it’s not in your best interest.

What accreditations should I look for in international hospitals?

The most meaningful international hospital accreditations include:

  1. Joint Commission International (JCI) – The gold standard, applying 1,300+ measurable standards across 14 areas including patient safety, infection control, and staff qualifications
  2. International Organization for Standardization (ISO) – Particularly ISO 9001 for quality management systems
  3. Accreditation Canada International – Using standards derived from the Canadian healthcare system
  4. Australian Council on Healthcare Standards International (ACHSI) – Applying Australian healthcare standards globally
  5. Specialty-specific accreditations such as:
    • International Society for Quality in Healthcare (ISQua)
    • College of American Pathologists (CAP) for laboratory services
    • American College of Radiology for imaging services

We prioritize JCI-accredited facilities, as this represents the most comprehensive and rigorous international standard, and verify current accreditation status rather than relying on past achievements.

What about medication quality and standards abroad?

Medication quality is a legitimate concern that we address through:

  1. Hospital pharmacy standards – We verify that facility pharmacies meet international standards for medication sourcing, storage, and dispensing
  2. Brand verification – We confirm that medications used are from reputable international pharmaceutical companies
  3. Supply chain documentation – Partner facilities provide verification of medication sources
  4. Medication lists – We ensure you receive complete information about all medications administered
  5. Canadian equivalents – We identify Canadian counterparts for any maintenance medications
  6. Post-return planning – We coordinate with your Canadian physicians regarding medication transitions
  7. Medication documentation – You receive detailed records of all medications received abroad

The top international hospitals we work with maintain pharmacy standards comparable to Canadian hospitals and often use identical medications from the same multinational pharmaceutical companies.

What infection control measures are in place at international hospitals?

Infection control is paramount in our facility selection process. We verify that facilities implement:

  1. Comprehensive protocols meeting or exceeding WHO standards
  2. Regular staff training on infection prevention
  3. Proper sterilization procedures for all equipment
  4. Published infection rate monitoring with transparency about outcomes
  5. Antibiotic stewardship programs to prevent resistance
  6. Isolation capabilities for infection control
  7. Environmental cleaning standards for all patient areas
  8. Hand hygiene compliance monitoring and enforcement
  9. Pre-surgical screening for potential infections
  10. Post-surgical infection surveillance

The top international facilities we recommend often maintain infection rates lower than Canadian averages due to newer facilities, lower patient density, and rigorous protocols.

Practical Considerations

What documents do I need for medical travel?

Essential documentation for medical travel includes:

Travel Documents:

  • Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond your travel dates)
  • Visitor visa (if required for your destination)
  • Return flight tickets
  • Travel insurance documentation
  • Emergency contact information

Medical Documentation:

  • Complete medical records related to your condition
  • Recent diagnostic imaging and test results
  • Medication list with dosages
  • Allergy information
  • Primary care physician contact information
  • Medical clearance for travel (if applicable)
  • Previous surgical reports (if relevant)

Financial Documentation:

  • Payment confirmations and receipts
  • Credit cards for incidental expenses
  • Small amount of local currency
  • Transaction records for large transfers

Our concierge service assists with organizing all required documentation, including any necessary translations and specialized formats required by international facilities.

What should I pack for medical travel?

We provide a comprehensive packing guide specific to your destination and procedure, but essentials include:

Medical Items:

  • All regular medications in original packaging with sufficient supply
  • List of medications and dosages
  • Copy of prescriptions and doctor’s contact information
  • Basic first aid supplies
  • Any specific items recommended by your surgeon

Recovery Supplies:

  • Loose, comfortable clothing that accommodates bandages/incisions
  • Slip-on shoes with non-slip soles
  • Personal comfort items
  • Entertainment options (books, tablet, etc.)
  • Adaptive equipment if recommended (varies by procedure)

Travel Essentials:

  • Phone and charger with international capabilities
  • Appropriate clothing for the climate
  • Toiletries and personal care items
  • Electrical adapters for your destination
  • Copies of all important documents

Documentation:

  • Passport and visa documents
  • Insurance information
  • Hospital/clinic contact details
  • SkipTheWait contact information
  • Copies of medical records

Our concierge service includes a procedure-specific packing list tailored to your destination, anticipated recovery needs, and length of stay.

How do I communicate with family back home while abroad?

Staying connected with family is important during medical travel. We help arrange:

  1. International phone service options including:
    • Canadian carrier international plans
    • Local SIM cards at your destination
    • eSIM services for compatible devices
  2. Internet connectivity through:
    • Hospital WiFi access information
    • Recovery accommodation connectivity
    • Backup connection options if needed
  3. Communication platforms including:
    • WhatsApp for messaging and calls
    • Zoom or FaceTime for video communication
    • Email for detailed updates
    • Secure messaging through patient portals
  4. Regular updates from our concierge to designated family members (with your permission)
  5. Emergency communication protocols for all parties

Most international hospitals and recovery facilities offer WiFi, and our recommended accommodations always include reliable internet connectivity.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule my procedure?

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes plans need to change. Our policy for changes includes:

  1. Cancellation flexibility – We charge no fees for canceling our concierge service, regardless of reason or timing
  2. Hospital deposits – Most facilities have cancellation policies that we clearly explain before any financial commitment:
    • Typical policies allow full refunds with 14-30 days’ notice
    • Partial refunds may be available for shorter notice periods
    • Emergency medical reasons often qualify for more flexible terms
  3. Travel arrangements – We recommend:
    • Flights with flexible change options
    • Accommodations with reasonable cancellation policies
    • Travel insurance that includes cancellation coverage
  4. Rescheduling assistance – If you need to postpone rather than cancel, we:
    • Coordinate new dates with medical facilities
    • Adjust all travel arrangements
    • Update all related appointments
    • Manage any financial implications

We provide transparent information about all cancellation policies before you make any financial commitments.

Next Steps

How do I get started with SkipTheWait.ca?

Beginning your journey with us is simple:

  1. Book a free consultation through our website, by phone at 1-800-SKIP-WAIT, or by email at info@skipthewait.ca
  2. Initial discussion (approximately 30-45 minutes) to understand:
    • Your medical situation and needs
    • Timeline and urgency
    • Personal preferences
    • Budget considerations
    • Questions and concerns
  3. Medical record review – We’ll guide you in compiling relevant medical information for assessment
  4. Personalized recommendations – Within 3-5 business days, we’ll present options tailored to your specific situation
  5. Decision support – We provide additional information, answer questions, and facilitate surgeon consultations to help you make an informed choice
  6. Service agreement – If you choose to proceed, we’ll establish clear expectations and next steps

There is absolutely no obligation to proceed beyond the free consultation, and we maintain strict confidentiality regarding all medical information shared.

What information should I prepare for my initial consultation?

To make your free consultation most productive, it helps to have:

  1. Basic medical information about your condition and recommended treatment
  2. Recent specialist reports or recommendations if available
  3. Questions and concerns you’d like addressed
  4. Timeline considerations for your potential treatment
  5. Budget parameters for planning purposes
  6. Preference information about destinations or specific needs

You don’t need to provide detailed medical records for the initial consultation—we’ll guide you through that process later if you decide to explore options further.

How do you maintain my privacy and confidentiality?

We maintain the highest standards of privacy protection:

  1. PIPEDA compliance – We adhere to Canadian Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act standards
  2. Secure systems – All electronic records are maintained in encrypted, password-protected systems
  3. Limited access – Only essential personnel directly involved in your case access your information
  4. Consent-based sharing – We only share information with your explicit consent
  5. Secure transmission – Medical records are transferred using encrypted channels
  6. Contractual protections – Our partner facilities sign confidentiality agreements
  7. Retention policies – Clear guidelines on how long information is kept
  8. Physical safeguards – Secure storage of any physical documents

Your privacy is paramount, and we treat your medical information with the same confidentiality standards you would expect from your Canadian healthcare providers.

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