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Why Patients Around the World Are Shocked at Discharge—and How Transparency Can Change That
Recently in Dhaka, a patient went to a well-known private hospital expecting to pay about ৳185,000 for a planned treatment. But when it was time to leave, the final bill had ballooned to nearly ৳300,000. The reason? The hospital claimed the package had changed midway due to “complications” - but the patient and family say no one informed them until the very end.
Sadly, this isn’t rare. In fact, stories like this are becoming all too common - not just in Bangladesh, but around the world.
A Global Problem of Hidden Hospital Charges
In the United States, even after a federal hospital price transparency rule was introduced in 2021, most hospitals are still not following it properly. A 2024 audit showed that only 16.8% of U.S. hospitals fully comply, and nearly half still don’t disclose their standard charges, making it almost impossible for patients to know what they’re paying for.
In Malaysia, patients have reported being billed for gloves at four times their real price and simple procedures racking up unexpectedly high charges, often without a clear explanation.
In Turkey, a shocking case involved newborn deaths, where private hospitals were found to have falsified records and extended ICU stays just to inflate bills and maximize insurance claims.
And in the UAE, new laws were introduced in 2023 to crack down on unethical healthcare practices, improve hospital cost transparency, and protect patient rights.
The story is the same in country after country: Patients arrive for care, and leave with bills they never expected.
Why Does This Happen?
Whether you’re a local patient or traveling abroad for medical tourism, one issue stands out: Lack of clear communication and billing transparency.
Patients often:
Don’t receive a clear hospital price estimate before treatment
Aren’t told when their treatment plan changes or costs increase
Get only a vague, bundled bill at discharge — with little explanation
This leads to financial stress, anger, and in some cases, patients choosing not to continue vital care.
What Ethical Healthcare Looks Like
Ethical healthcare practices mean more than just good doctors. It means keeping patients involved, informed, and respected.
Transparent hospitals:
Share detailed cost estimates before starting treatment
Inform patients and families immediately if anything changes
Provide itemized bills in plain language
Ensure billing reflects the actual care delivered
How VivaVel Ensures Transparency for Every Patient
At VivaVel, we don’t just help patients choose a hospital—we become their partner throughout the treatment journey.
When you are flying in from abroad for affordable treatment, we act as your trusted medical facilitator, helping you every step of the way.
Here’s how we assist you:
We work with hospitals that follow ethical billing practices
We get you a clear estimate before treatment begins
We stay connected with the hospital to monitor any changes
If costs rise, we make sure you're informed in advance and that there's a valid medical reason
We help you understand the bill and even negotiate charges if needed
Thanks to this hands-on approach, over 90% of VivaVel patients complete their treatment within the estimated cost.
For international patients looking for second opinion services, comparative cost analysis, or safe medical tourism destinations, VivaVel offers full international patient support — from your first inquiry to your final follow-up.
Final Word: No More Surprises
Medical care is stressful enough. Getting well shouldn't mean getting blindsided by hidden costs. Whether you're considering treatment locally or seeking medical tourism options in India, Thailand, Malaysia, Turkey, or the UAE, one thing is clear:
Transparency saves lives — and wallets.
At VivaVel, we’re proud to set a new standard. With ethical hospital partners and a full-service patient care team, we ensure healthcare is honest, human, and fair.
Want peace of mind during your medical journey?
Talk to a VivaVel Case Manager today.
We’re here to support you—every step of the way.
References
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India has emerged as a global leader in medical tourism, offering cutting-edge healthcare services at a fraction of the cost compared to developed nations. Among these services, bone marrow transplants (BMT) are a life-saving treatment for various blood disorders, cancers, and immune system diseases. This blog delves into the costs of BMT in India, the factors influencing them, and why India is a top choice for patients worldwide.
When Naomi Shamim from Kenya struggled with fibroadenoma (breast lump) and couldn’t find relief locally, she turned to VivaVel.com.
STEP 1
Let us know your details and preferences. We maintain absolute data confidentiality. All your health records are safe, and privacy is maintained.
STEP 2
A dedicated counsellor will help you with the Best Hospital & Doctors at the lowest possible Prices.
STEP 3
While you decide on the treatment plan, we assist you with priority appointments, Visa, Documentation, Hotel & other Logistics.
STEP 4
Our team assists you with all your local requirements like Hospitalization, Hotel Stay, Transportation, Food, Forex, Lab Tests, Medicines, etc.
STEP 5
We ensure a smooth discharge process. We also assist you in tallying your bills at the hospital, all necessary documentation, and your return trip.
Happy Patient from Bangladesh | Gastroenteritis Treatment in Columbia Asia Hospital, India
"VivaVel" has truly made a life-changing impact on our lives during a challenging time. My wife was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD), and despite consulting three different doctors in Bangladesh, we were unsatisfied and uncertain about the way forward. It was a confusing and challenging phase until a friend recommended VivaVel.
From the moment "I contacted them", VivaVel provided exceptional support and guidance. They arranged telemedicine consultations with two renowned international doctors, giving us the confidence to make an informed decision. After careful consideration, we selected one of the doctors for my wife's treatment.
VivaVel's assistance went above and beyond our expectations. They helped us with critical processes like obtaining a medical visa invitation letter, visa processing, and coordinating my wife's admission to "Artemis Hospital" in Delhi. They even suggested comfortable accommodations for me as a patient attendant.
What truly stood out was their unwavering support throughout our journey. The "VivaVel team" was always just a phone call away, offering guidance and reassurance during our stay in Delhi. Their professionalism and dedication to helping patients and their families are truly commendable.
I am incredibly grateful for the care and support from "VivaVel." They were a beacon of hope for us during this difficult time, and I sincerely hope they continue their outstanding service to help more needy patients.
Thank you, "VivaVel," for being there for us every step of the way!
Mr. Hoque, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Patient name: Shanta Islam, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
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