By: Elena Mart
In this exclusive interview, Craig Dempsey, Chairman of Medical Tourism Packages, shares his perspective on how Latin America is increasingly shaping the way international visitors think about health-related travel. With accessible pricing, personalized services, and tropical recovery environments, destinations like Colombia, Panama, and Costa Rica are gaining recognition as viable regions for elective self-care abroad.
Q: Craig, what inspired the launch of Medical Tourism Packages?
Craig Dempsey: We aimed to make it easier for people to access safe, high-quality, and affordable healthcare experiences in Latin America. Our clients are mostly from the U.S. and Canada, and many are seeking care they might delay or skip at home due to cost. What we offer is a full-service concierge model. That includes connecting people with carefully selected clinics, coordinating transportation and hotels, and making the overall process feel as smooth and reassuring as possible.
Q: What makes Colombia stand out?
Craig Dempsey: Colombia has invested heavily in medical infrastructure and talent. Cities like Medellín and Bogotá now feature state-of-the-art clinics and internationally trained professionals. Whether someone is exploring light cosmetic treatments, smile enhancements, or basic wellness services, Colombia offers strong value with an appealing cultural backdrop. We’ve created a comprehensive Colombia guide that outlines what to expect for travelers considering a combined vacation and care experience. Colombia has also become increasingly well-known for procedures like rhinoplasty due to its skilled surgeons and modern medical facilities.
Q: How does Panama compare?
Craig Dempsey: Panama is a practical option for North Americans because it’s close, dollarized, and modern. The country has excellent bilingual clinics and a consistent track record of visitor satisfaction. Many travelers come for discreet appearance procedures, short-stay enhancements like Botox in Panama, or even dental work. We also see demand in the cosmetic surgery segment for procedures that are often significantly less expensive than in the U.S. Our Panama guide provides helpful details.
Q: What about Costa Rica?
Craig Dempsey: Costa Rica combines eco-tourism with health-oriented travel. It’s especially known for dental care, wellness services, and general rejuvenation. San José and Escazú are common landing points, with many visitors opting to spend time in nearby nature resorts. We offer a detailed Costa Rica guide to help people explore their options more confidently.
Q: How does Medical Tourism Packages ensure a consistent experience?
Craig Dempsey: It starts with quality control. We only list clinics with international accreditation or strong local reputations. Our team verifies credentials, checks reviews, and emphasizes transparency. We also provide ongoing support before and after each visit. That includes logistics and access to licensed professionals. Patients are encouraged to review official channels like MINSA for provider information.
Q: Any trends you’re noticing?
Craig Dempsey: Yes. First, people are combining procedures. For example, someone might schedule a dental treatment and then add a cosmetic refresh. Second, we’re seeing more male travelers, especially for hair restoration or body sculpting. Third, clients are booking with shorter notice and relying on our coordinators to move quickly.
Q: Can you talk about pricing?
Craig Dempsey: We often see savings of 40 to 60 percent compared to North America. For example, a procedure like a tummy tuck that costs $12,000 in the U.S. might be available for around $6,000 abroad. That frequently includes pre-op, surgeon fees, and recovery support. And it all happens in an environment that can feel more like a resort than a traditional hospital setting.
Q: Any closing thoughts?
Craig Dempsey: This isn’t just about procedures. It’s about reclaiming time, confidence, and peace of mind. Latin America offers more than affordability. It provides warmth, personalized care, and the opportunity to return home feeling renewed. As travelers become more intentional with how they invest in themselves, we expect destinations like Colombia, Panama, and Costa Rica to remain strong contenders in this space.
