Philippines Medical Tourism Overview - Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery has been on an upward trend worldwide especially with the constant and continuous development of surgical and non surgical techniques in recent years... from laser resurfacings to thread lifts...from endoscopic lift surgeries to minimally invasive rejuvenating techniques...

Unfortunately these relatively new and popular elective procedures together with the traditional and effective surgeries are not always accessible and affordable even to those living in developed countries as the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, countries in Europe and parts of Asia. Medical and health services there in general have always been expensive. Cost of course has always been a significant factor and important consideration among many other things for the potential patient...it is after all something universal...The good news though is that certain select countries such as Mexico, Brazil, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines just to name a few, have taken notice and have taken advantage of this dilemma by offering these surgeries at very affordable rates to interested patients outside their territories. The significant price differential between medical and surgical costs between these developed countries and the Philippines in particular have made patients abroad take a second look at this attractive option. Who won't be amazed with getting a surgery package cost of about a third to a quarter of the price found in the U.S. with just the same results?

Medical tourism in the Philippines has actually been silently ongoing for decades now however it has only been recently wherein the Department of Tourism has actually emphasized and strongly encouraged the Medical profession to join the band wagon. In Asia, Thailand still leads the way in organized and systematic channeling of medical tourism services particularly in cosmetic plastic surgery. The Philippines is rapidly catching up though and is steadily getting a bigger share of the pie.

In 2006, the Department of Health in cooperation with the Department of Tourism came up with the Philippine Medical Tourism Program (PMTP) which is a multisectoral program with the ultimate goal of making the Philippines the leading and foremost destination for wellness and medical care in Asia.

Aggressive local and overseas promotion and an improving tourism infrastructure is a priority of the Philippine government and has brought a significant boost in medical tourism in the country. Initially driven and encouraged by very competitive rates and costs of surgery in this part of the world, patients are now flying in with the desire of having surgery and rejuvenation with the added bonus of seeing and experiencing the best places these islands can offer. Tagaytay, Batangas, Boracay, Cebu, Palawan, and Davao are just some of the more popular tourist destinations which have caught the eye of our foreign visitors and "balikbayans".

However, sometimes unknowingly, providing much leverage in the development of this relatively new industry is actually and simply the inherent qualities of being a Filipino. The Filipino physician and support staff are typically compassionate, caring, friendly and hospitable. This not only helps in making a foreign patient comfortable and relaxed but also eventually makes his trip and surgery a very pleasant experience. Aside from being generally fluent in the English language, the Filipino medical work force is competitive and of high standards as compared to their Asian neighbors.

Therefore when patients coming from abroad do decide to have elective cosmetic plastic surgeries here in the country, more often than not they get excellent value for their money. Medical and surgical expertise, world class facilities and island destinations, mastery of English, and the typical Filipino, all contribute to the Philippines rise to global competitiveness in medical tourism. Simply put and everything said nothing beats a combined quality and affordable surgery in the setting of a tropical paradise for leisure and recuperation.

Do You Always Believe Everything Your Doctor Tells You?

There comes the times when Doctors are the blessing and irreplaceable. These times are when we have accidents, get sick or driven psychologically toward that face lift or tummy tuck. When I was young, a doctor visit was far more mysterious than the predictive present. Today, I feel much like an automobile as we go in now for procedures much like; a brake job or replacement part, troubleshooting or diagnostics.

I always thought it was fascinating that repair jobs at dealer service centers are looked up in the book, numbered and coded, metered for time for labor, cost and even that 'mark up' on parts. Interesting that over the years the system grew more sophisticated and detailed, while automotive pales fairly in its complexities in comparison to the field of medicine. After reading such books as "The China Study" (T. Colin Campbell), you can't help from noticing much of the same reluctance on intuition of the Doctor, as it is all written for them, this symptom, and this pharmaceutical. Most Doctors have been indoctrinated for so long in Medical school that these drugs are the "Healers" of our time, they have lost sight in Faith, that when the body is given what it needs, it can heal itself.

What is further a mystery (only because it's not talked about) is that our third cause of death in this country "IS" death resulting from these drugs and or miss-diagnosis.

Meanwhile, we are spending trillions annually for medical care in this country and we are no better off in health than we were 30 years ago. When we as individuals take responsibility for our health through awareness, education and lifestyle, we will exceed beyond our mile in both wellness and medical technology (More on responsibility in another article).

If you watch television, you can't help but notice the latest pharmaceutical commercials offering a secondary heart or depression pill to accompany the one you are already taking. And, "Side effects from thins medication can include headaches, constipation, dizziness and even sudden death. Talk with your Doctor and find out if our drugs will work for you". I love the new ending that says "If you can't afford your medication, contact us and we will help you", Oh, My god.

Well, if any of this provides significance, let me clear up why it appears this way. IT IS this way!

While Medical Doctors spend 6-10 years behind their books, most of them are the last to know those books contain a flow of Dogma, packed by the AMA and the Pharmaceutical Companies who profit by our American indulgence of quick fixes and lazy lifestyles. The Medical INDUSTRY in itself has to take account that it is A BUSINESS. The entire industry today is riddled in policies, protocols and procedures that have become routine, inflicted upon the human public and then documented. If you are a 53 year old American Male, and the day you have your annual exam, you are a little nervous and the blood pressure is up a bit that day, YOU qualify immediately for blood pressure medication. Doctors are mandated to "Go by the BOOK", so they must at least disclaim before letting you out the door. This is simply to cover their butts because of industry and insurance standards. INSURANCE STANDARDS? YES! I won't even go into it right now.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Treatment

I make my living providing successful Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Treatment. While there are no "magic fixes" for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), there are many helpful methods that can help one manage the symptoms and challenges. The condition is best tackled on many fronts and treatment often includes a combination of therapy, medications, diet, coaching, exercise, natural remedies, and other approaches.

Medications

New ADHD medications are released every year and the popular major pharmaceutical releases include Ritalin, Focalin, Daytrana, Concerta, Dexedrine, Adderall, Strattera, and Vyvanse. Furthermore, antidepressants are also used to treat ADHD. Clonidine, a high blood pressure medication, has also been found to benefit those with ADHD. Furthermore, medications such as Provigil, Modafinil, and Nuvigil have been utilized with some success by adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. They enhance wakefulness and alertness and were initially used to treat Narcolepsy, work shift sleep disorders, and sleep apnea, but are gaining other off-label uses such as treating ADHD.

Many concerned parents are skeptical about giving their children ADHD medications, most of which are stimulant or amphetamine based. I was one of them. However, I have many patients that tolerate ADHD medication very well and medication is a key component in their treatment. The bottom line is this: because meds affect everyone differently, often times it is a matter of trail and error to find what works best.

Safer, All-Natural Medications

Natural ADD treatment options include natural supplements including Attend, Brightspark, Listol, Focus Formula, and Intuniv. These supplements are mostly plant and herb based, and are not amphetamine-based stimulants. As a result, ingesting them does not result in debilitating side effects, addictive properties, or withdrawal symptoms. They are safer and more mild.

Other Effective ADHD Treatments

While medication is very useful, pills are never a substitute for learning the skills to manage ADHD. As a result, therapy is the second most popular among Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder treatments. (It is important to remember that psychiatric medications should not be the sole treatment as they are more effective when combined with therapy.) Therapy can help teach new coping skills, treat any emotional blocks that may be hindering present functioning, and is essential for treating coexisting conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse which are common in those with ADHD.

In addition to therapy, many sufferers find that ADHD coaching is a great way to help them focus on practical ways to manage the condition. Coaches help ADHD sufferers develop ways to be more focused and effective at work and at home. Some utilize virtual assistants found on Elance.com to help them complete everyday tasks such as bill paying, bookkeeping or scheduling.

Similar to therapy and coaching, ADHD support groups can be an effective resource. Most find it empowering when in the company of others who are experiencing similar challenges. There is strength in numbers and support group members may offer support and advice.

Also, diet and exercise play a large role in overall optimum functioning and can also alleviate the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Yoga and meditation are also effective.

Enjoy Absolute Treatment With Spas With Accommodation

People today have become more health conscious then ever before. Though they lead a hectic life, when it comes to health, they make sure that the required time ir given to their health needs. Amongst many forms of health treatment that they avail these days, Spa treatment of all the other options seems to be catching up. If you can take time out of your busy schedule then you can opt for a day treatment in spas with accommodation. Spa treatment is all about water treatment. There are many types of spas that you can choose from.

Types of Spas:

o Spas with accommodation also known as destination spa. This type of spa helps the spa going enthusiasts to build up a healthy way of lifestyle.

o If you want the treatment to be done under the supervision of a licensed health care professional then you can opt for a medical spa. Here you can enjoy complete wellness and medical care. The medical spa provides you treatment by integrating both traditional and alternative treatments and therapies.

o If you want to opt for the on site spa treatment of natural mineral and thermal spa treatment then you can choose the mineral spring's spa.

o For a day use purpose you can opt for the club spa. You can take the membership and treat yourself with the basic spa facility.

o If you opt for the cruise ship spa then you can enjoy the spa services which are managed by professionals. You also get to enjoy the spa cuisine apart from other wellness and fitness components.

o You can also use the day spa and the dental spa. In the dental spa treatment you get dental assistance from a professional dentist along with the spa service.

o If you want to enjoy your holiday and use it to improve your health habits then you can opt for the hotel spa or resort spa.

The spas with accommodation or destination spa that we call it is actually a resort or a hotel that offers spa service. Most of these spas with accommodation are located next to the sources of mineral waters or natural hot springs. It is normally a seven days program. In these seven days you get a complete spa treatment that includes physical fitness activities, spa services, special interest programming, and wellness education with tips about healthy eating.
In these spas with accommodation you can stay as a guest and participate in health programs like seminars and educational programs.

You could also indulge in services like a day spa and beauty treatments. These spas are mostly situated in the lap of exotic locations to enhance your experience. So while you enjoy your holiday you can undergo these relaxation and health treatments.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder is when a person worries continuously about a particular area of their life, or about events and catastrophes that may occur in the future. They tend to over-analyze what is happening in their day to day lives with regard to work, health family and finances. Most of their concerns and worries are often repetitive, ongoing and extreme and in most cases, out of proportion to the actual situation. These worries are difficult to control, even though the person may recognise that it is often out of proportion and the person may experience very high levels of anxiety on a regular basis.

Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder

* Feelings of displacement
* Hot and cold flushes
* Nausea
* Shortness of breath
* Fear of dying, losing control
* Dry mouth
* Dizziness
* Irritability and agitation
* Breathing distress
* Heart palpitations
* Chest pains
* Tingling sensations
* Trembling
* Sweating
* Feeling of 'going crazy'
* Sleep disturbances

Coping Mechanisms

Many people develop very poor coping strategies in an effort to decrease their high levels of anxiety brought about by their constant and endless worry. These include smoking cigarettes, drinking coffee, using recreational drugs and alcohol. They are unhealthy coping mechanisms and often worsen their already high levels of anxiety.
Useful Strategies

Recovery from generalized anxiety disorder is possible. Treatment and therapies helpful in overcoming generalized anxiety disorder include relaxation and correct breathing techniques, problem solving techniques, cognitive behavioural therapy, anxiety education, self esteem therapy, focusing skills, assertion skills training, perception skills, balanced lifestyle and often medication. If you use medication it is advised to engage in the above therapies as well, and medication should only be used under the direction of a qualified medical practitioner.