For the first time in the country’s medical history, Costa Rica will be officially hosting the International Congress on Medical Tourism, organized by the Medical Consortium of Costa Rica.

     Doctors who specialize in plastic surgery, dermatology, ophthalmology, dentistry, as well as beauticians will be able to participate in the event, which is expected to turn into a forum, so that professionals and students from the different areas of health and cosmetic surgery in the country can share their knowledge and experiences with specialists from abroad.

     “The initiative of the congress is based on the fact that Costa Rica has turned into a point of reference when searching for medical services, while enjoying a first class tourist destination,” commented Doctor Kattia Calvo, one of the organizers of the activity.

     The congress was held at the Hotel Ramada Plaza Herradura in San José, on December 10, 11, and 12 with the participation of representatives from the United States, Colombia, Argentina, Mexico, Panama, Spain, Venezuela, Brazil and Costa Rica.

     According to statistics supplied by the Costa Rica Tourist Board, between 200 and 250 operations related to health and cosmetic surgery are carried out per month at hospitals in Costa Rica. 90% of these are performed on foreigners.