BACMT Written and Video Testimonials
Hello,
Our experience with the Clinca Biblica Hospital, it’s medical staff and the professionals of the international department was truly extraordinary, from the first contact, through the difficult knee replacement surgery, to the last day there.
Always responsive, in a most helpful and caring way, these fine people maintain an excellent facility and first rate medical care system
Dr. Oeding was available, communicative and supportive at all times. His excellent work was noted by my orthopedic surgeon, after I returned home.
My wife and I are especially grateful to BACMT for guiding us through this process, proactively addressing our needs and often exceeding our expectations.
Charles Rychner - Total Knee Replacement
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Hello,
My name is Malcolm. I became very ill in October 2012 and the tests results showed an incompetent mitral valve. I was very worried so I wanted the best cardiac surgeon and I was recommended Dr. Xavier Ruyra at Barcelona International Surgical Institute. I was put at ease straight away and felt in safe hands. The operation and the aftercare were superb. I am now able to do all my sports and live a normal life. Thank you very much once again, for your professionalism, dedication and careness showed toward me and my wife and I during this stressful time.
Malcolm Debbage - Mitral Valve Surgery
Norfolk, United Kingdom
Dear BACMT,
I truly want to thank Dr. Oeding and your team for helping me get my life back. After several years of knee pain, total replacement was my only alternative. Once you and I made contact, I didn’t have to do anything but show up. You made all the arrangements and made me feel totally comfortable in a scary situation. Coming to Costa Rica, Clinica Biblica and having Dr. Oeding as my surgeon was a wonderful experience that I won’t soon forget. The hospital staff was so nice and made sure that I had everything I needed at all times.
For me, it was a relatively easy surgery. After a few days, I was walking on my own (although slowly) and after a month, I was back doing activities that I had not done in years. My only regret is that I did not get to see enough of your beautiful country……I will be back!
Judy Crocker - Total Knee Replacement
Snellville, Georgia
Dear BACMT,
I cannot begin to describe my feelings – I had no life at all – the degeneration in my hip kept me bedbound and the pain made me not care about life anymore. And the cost to me as an uninsured American in an American hospital would have been over $50,000.00, which was beyond my means at the time. My total cost at Clinica Biblica, which included airfare for two and the recovery center for ten days with rehab therapy and all meals for two people, was right around $18,500…roughly 1/3 the cost of the hospital alone in America. This is an incredible bargain that essentially made it possible for me to have a life worth living once again.
I won’t even go into my feelings regarding the quality of American hospital care vs. Costa Rican hospital care...I’ll save that for the interview, except to say that I never hope to be put in another American hospital again. I’m already planning my next visit to Clinica Biblica for some neurological work – Jan says this time I need a TBR (Total Brain Replacement.)
It might be easier for you just to forward this email to your journalist. It might stimulate some questions in him or her.
I am soon going to write Dr. Oeding my three-month report and I need to thank Isabel. But you guys will all see us again before very long.
My thanks to all of you.
Troy Wilson - Total Hip Replacement
Hi,
At the recommendation of my doctor, Dr. Oeding, I contacted BACMT to help facilitate my recent hip replacement surgery. I wish to thank you for arranging everything pre and post op and helping me through the whole process at the hospital. I live in Costa Rica and didn’t have to deal with the airport, etc., as people from outside the country do, which would have made their services even more helpful. I would definitely recommend contacting them if you’re considering medical treatment in Costa Rica.
Dr. Oeding is an outstanding orthopaedic doctor, in my opinion. He specializes in hips, knees, and shoulders. He speaks English well and was very friendly, patient, and has a wealth of experience when it comes to hip replacements. I was concerned about having the least invasive procedure possible, but also wanted a replacement that would allow me to continue be physically active, because I’m only 63 and not the sedintary type person. Dr. Oeding recommended the Taperlock Replacement System which is an upgrade from the standard system used. I think the surgery lasted about 2.5 hrs. and I have about a 4.5in. scar on my hip. It’s been 3 weeks since my surgery and I’m thrilled with my progress. I was up walking with the physical therapist the day after surgery. I returned home the 2nd day after surgery (we’re only a couple of hours from the hospital). I used a cane for the first week home and haven’t used it since then. I do my exercises and am progressing more and more every day. I’m driving now and able to walk about 2 miles without any problem. It’s such a wonderful relief to not have the pain and limited movement that I had before the surgery.
The Clinica Biblica Hospital is very nice and the nurses, physical therapists, and rest of the staff are great. The food wasn’t very consistent and ran from pretty good to not very good.
We stayed at the Palm House Inn the night before my surgery. It is small, neat, clean, and has a helpful staff, but I wouldn’t want to stay there for more than a day or so. If you’re going to be staying for a number of days after surgery before flying out, I would definitely suggest staying at one of the nicer (more expensive) hotels with more amenities that BACMT recommends.
Thank you again for all your help.
Best regards,
Terry Fickett - Hip Replacement
Hello,
My name is Marcos Santana. I am 32 years old and I am a Jehovah’s Witness. In 2010 I was diagnosed with a dissecting aortic aneurysm. Due to my strong religious convictions which are based on biblical teachings, I was not willing to receive blood transfusions and therefore I could find no surgeon who would perform surgery on me. With my existing alternatives in mind, I continued my search until I discovered Dr. Ruyra and his team who indeed were willing and able to carry out the surgery. In 2013 they operated on me, and did an excellent job of replacing my damaged aorta with a synthetic tube and thus they were able to resolve my problem. I’m deeply grateful for the work that Dr. Ruyra and his team carried out and I would like to thank him on me and all of my family’s behalf for respecting my personal beliefs, his confidence, his friendliness as well as, his professionalism.
Marcos Santana - Dissecting Aortic Aneurysm Bloodless Surgery
Barcelona, Spain
Hi,
Just wanted to thank yourselves, Dr Valverde and all the staff I met at Clinica Biblica Hospital. You all made the experience very comfortable and I will recommend Clinica Biblica to anyone who needs similar surgery. The follow up care in the hotel by physiotherapist Hans and nurse Manuel was equally professional.
Thank you,
Andrew Drescher - Total Hip Replacement
Melbourne, Florida
To my new friends at Clinica Biblica Hospital:
Being treated and listened to as a real person by real doctors on a direct one-to-one basis with my best interest, health and needs being placed first was more than refreshing.
I am looking forward to a full recovery from surgery for a serious clavicle injury, and the normal use of my arm. My life has been renewed. I got the serious and immediate attention no U.S. doctor I found would give me. I did my research and emailed my x-rays to Dr. Oscar Oeding, who promptly telephoned me directly. I found his assessment and recommended procedure in agreement with mine – going beyond what any U.S. doctor was willing to discuss.Imagine making a serious decision for surgery with one phone call!
No surgery is easy, but having full confidence in Dr. Oeding is making every step of my recovery endurable.Unlike my experience in the USA, I not just felt, but knew that the patient came before the money. There was not a moment that my every need was not attended to, my every question or concern not addressed – and always with a smile.
My business puts me in contact with many people who think the USA has the best doctors. The expertise and professionalism I experienced from everyone from the coffee stand to the operating room at Clinica Biblica Hospital dispelled any anxiety I may have had about obtaining help outside the USA, especially when the advice I received from US doctors was “live with it” and I knew I could not.
The staff in the BACMT was there for me every step of the way, including not just recommending but making arrangements for affordable, restful housing and prompt transportation, and willingly attending to my personal needs. As for the price? Well, for a person who is “self-insured” – I found I could afford it. In the long run I have paid less and had less hassle and paperwork than with any insurance company.
Perhaps I am out of the ordinary. But after being offered “free” surgery by a U.S. Orthopedic surgeon on the assumption that I agreed with his assessment (which I did not) and that without insurance I could not pay, I turned it down without even asking the price. Confidence and trust is something money cannot buy. I found it at Clinica Biblica Hospital.
Teddy Lancaster - Clavicle Fracture Repair
Kitts Hill, Ohio
Hello,
My name is César Banet, and I’m from La Coruña, Spain. About two years ago I was diagnosed with Arachnoiditis. After having visited a ton of neurosurgeons, I discovered Dr. Ferrer, who was the only one who dared to surgically treat my condition, and the only one that gave me hope and who helped to relax me in the process.
For me, in addition to being a great neurosurgeon, he is extremely involved with his patients and honestly I only have great things to say about him. After about two years of knowing and after all of my different procedures, I really consider Dr. Ferrer my friend and the only thing I hope for, is that he can get me back to a state in which I can get up and stand on my own and finally leave the wheelchair behind.
César Banet - Arachnoid(itis
Coruña, Spain
Dear BACMT,
You were not only professionals, but you were compassionate to me and my father’s needs. You couldn’t have done a better job. Much appreciated.
Regarding the hospital room, the nurses were extremely professional and thorough. They helped me every time I needed it. The doctor’s were very professional, very thorough in explaining procedure and very informative. In the last seven years I have had eight doctors and your treatment to me has been better than all eight doctors combined. Thanks for your great care.
Regarding the hotel room, first two days a little noisy, room 105. Then moved to room 502 which was perfect. Excellent maid service. Very clean conditions. Very satisfied.
Overall, excellent experience, especially Costa Rica´s health care system.
Thank you very much!
Dale and Vince Dugdale - Total Knee Replacement
Iowa, USA
Dear BACMT,
I am wanting to thank you and your staff personally, Dr. Oeding, the hospital staff, The Casa Conde Hotel, and my travel guides for my recent stay in Costa Rica for a total knee replacement.
There is so much to be thankful for in finding you.I do not know hardly where to begin.
First, my initial contact with you was by e-mail on a Friday evening. You called me back on Monday and from there we e-mailed and talked daily, sometimes 2 & 3 times. You reassured me during a very stressful time and only after I was sure in my mind that I could receive quality care, did I make the heartfelt decision to go to Costa Rica. I still had plenty of doubts regarding safety, transportation, lodging, and communication, all of which quickly disappeared as soon as I arrived. Had I not been there for such serious surgery, I would have thought I was in a vacation resort spa.
The fact that I had to do absolutely nothing except show up is what is really incredible. You made all of the arrangements for me as soon as I arrived until I left. My doctor and surgery visits, including nursing and rehab care after I left the hospital, my meals, hotel needs, and tours- not one thing was overlooked by you or your staff. Never would I have imagined that all this could have been possible at 80% less than I was about to pay here. Not one price was changed after the fact. What you told me in the beginning is what I paid. I am sincerely grateful to you for the honesty.
I am especially grateful to Dr. Oeding for the excellent quality of his work. Because of his work, my rehab has gone exceptionally well and I am much further along in my progress than I would have ever imaged. Having gone through a total knee replacement on my other leg in 2001, this rehab cannot even compare to the previous one. The less invasive technique which Dr. Oeding used is half the incision length of my other leg. Of course that means less pain, less healing, faster rehab, etc. The comparison of surgeons is that there is none. Of the less invasive technique, my surgeon here said, “I see no benefit, either to the patient or the doctor in doing the surgery any different than what was done the last time.” How arrogant!!
Only after my last consultation, as I was getting ready to go home, did I find out that the agreed upon date of surgery, Friday, July 27th, was not a surgery day for Dr. Oeding. He scheduled me in order to fit into my schedule. How awesome! That would have never happened here. Not once did I have difficulty in communicating, either with the hospital staff or the staff at the Casa Conde. If someone answered in Spanish, they quickly replied in English or got someone who could speak English. How refreshing! The nurses genuinely cared for my well being and made sure that the pain and antibiotic medication was administered as prescribed. Not once did I have to ask for additional pain medication.
Lastly, the icing on the cake were the tours and visits around Costa Rica. The San Jose tour the day I arrived, the dinner and folklore dancers at the scenic restaurant Tiquicia, the coffee and banana plantation tour the day I got out of the hospital, the volcano and tour of Lancaster Gardens of the University of Costa Rica and the typical traditional meals with my tour guide. Who wouldn’t want to come back? I look forward to seeing you all later in the year.
Thank you again and God bless you all!
Your New Best Friend,
Kathie Foy - Total Knee Replacement
Germantown, Tennessee
Dear BACMT staff,
You have been a wonderful guide and companion through this journey. This hospital is the nicest I have ever seen. The nursing staff is extraordinary. The physicians clearly cared as much about me, a visiting patient, as the best treating physicians I have known in regular life. I could not have asked for better, more caring, more skilled treatment.
All physicians were clearly competent, well equipped, and caring. They treated me with the care and courtesy I would hope to receive from my regular physician or specialist at home. These doctors are breathtakingly capable. Dr. Zafrani did the Lap Band procedure on a Friday. I was out shopping in the open air craft markets of San Jose the following Monday. Dr. Wu Chin was right on top of things when my blood sugar went up after surgery. Both doctors visited, and arranged extra follow up appointments to be certain that I was fully cared for. I do not think medical care gets better than this. From now on, if I need serious medical care, I will come to Costa Rica.
These nurses study 6 years to earn their RN. They are very professional, very competent, and fully bilingual. In addition to their excellent work, I appreciated the pride and professionalism symbolized by their hard earned caps and immaculate uniforms. They are a very comforting sight to a patient who is far from home.
This is the nicest hospital I have ever seen. I have lived in apartments that were smaller than the beautiful hospital room we had. There was a comfortable bed, in a separate space, for my husband. There was room….so much room. The colors of the room were fascinating. The bathroom was very large and very safe. If there is a better hospital out there, I cannot imagine what they must have! This is truly as good as the very best.
We stayed at Adventure Inn, a small hotel. It was immaculate. The rooms were large, tasteful, and well furnished. The staff was very courteous. This small hotel is economical and excellent. It is a good value. They are preparing special meals to meet my post surgical dietary needs.
BACMT, Hospital Clinica Biblica, all of the wonderful doctors and nurses, our drivers, and the staff at Adventure Inn exceeded our best expectations.
Glenda Durham - Gastric Sleeve
USA
Hi Guys,
Got your voice message last night (Friday the 13th!!). I work odd hours and am sorry I wasn’t here to pick up your call. I can’t believe I left for Costa Rica a month ago TODAY!!! A month has passed already!!! I am doing well. Please give my regards to Dr. Zafrani. I am pleased to report that I have lost 22 lbs to date (and I am still 3 days short of a month from my surgery date!!). I feel pretty good; I have not progressed any further than soup with my diet as yet. I am sort of nervous to try “eating” anything; even soft foods. Liquids are doing good plus I have a high protein/low calorie shake every day to keep my protein intake up. You can forward this email to Dr. Zafrani if you like. Again, all is well here in California and I am excited about my weight loss. I already have a pile of clothes that are too big for me!! And I plan to NEVER wear them again!!
G. St Clair - Gastric Sleeve
USA
Dear BACMT,
I hope all is well with you. I am doing good- it has been 11 weeks since my surgery and I have lost 58 pounds! I am using a personal trainer and I am exercising 4-5 times a week. I feel great!!! I am sorry it has taken me so long to get back to you, but my internet is not working properly. I hope this helps. I have been recommending your program to a lot of people!
I had a great experience with Dr. Zafrani and his staff at Hospital Clinica Biblica. I am an RN in the United States and after 8 years of trying to find an insurance that would cover the gastric bypass surgery, I decided to pay for it myself. While I was researching surgery in Mexico, I came across an article about medical tourism which mentioned that a hospital in Costa Rica is accredited from JCAHO. This was a big deal for me, as this is the same organization that accredits hospitals in the US. I requested information from the website, received a quick response, and everything went smoothly from there. I had a lot of co-workers and friends who tried to talk me out of going to another country, but my mind was made up. I was even more reassured when we arrived at the airport in Costa Rica and our driver, Juan Carlos was waiting for us, although the flight had been delayed. Everyone was wonderful- Juan Carlos, our driver and tour guide was very knowledgeable about Costa Rica. I do not speak Spanish, but I had little trouble communicating in this beautiful country.
At the hotel we met 2 more Americans who were having bariatric surgery as well. I have formed lasting friendships with both of these ladies and their families. It was a special treat to tour the countryside with these fellow Americans.
A huge thank you to your staff, who arranged all the details. I was impressed by the layout of the hospital- all the clinics on one side, where I had all the pre-op tests completed and the hospital on the other side, where my surgery was 2 days later. It was an extra special touch when you sat with me before my surgery and calmed my nerves with a prayer. Dr. Zafrani was great, he is a very knowledgeable and skilled surgeon. The nurses and hospital staff were all very friendly and professional. Post-op, after returning to my hotel, a nurse visited me for 3 days to make sure my recovery was going well. You even made the arrangements for our hotel stay at El Rodeo, and everyone there was very helpful. I can not say thank you enough to everyone who made this life changing experience possible. I have recommended this experience to many people and I would do it all over again.
Thank you!
Danell Kistner, RN - Gastric Bypass
Hollister, California
Dear BACMT,
What an amazing experience was my surgery at Hospital Clinica Biblica!
What began as a simple quest for relief from my high blood pressure, diabetes, and back pain turned into an introduction to a gentleman I now consider to be one of the finest surgeons in the world, Dr. Mario Saenz. Why would I make this statement? Two reasons primarily…one my surgery had zero complications. I remember and felt nothing during my operation. And two the results…I have currently lost 59 pounds with ease (down from 244 to 185) and I feel great.
I am 62. Everyday before my operation, I used to truly believe I was very close to passing away. I felt that bad. Now I feel great, and I believe Dr. Saenz has extended my life for at least another 20 years. Oh yes, and did I mention that the cost of my surgery was half of what it would have been in the U.S. ($15,000 – check it out for yourself). From my private room with all the modern amenities to my painless operation experience…
First Class all the way and highly recommended!
Roger Hailey - Gastric Bypass
Doral, Florida
Hello,
Yes, it has been 3 months since I had my procedure at Clinica Biblica. I am very satisfied, almost amazed at my weight loss; close to 60 lbs. My life has changed for the better and I am feeling better about my health and my physique. What few issues I had post-surgery, were quickly answered via e-mail by my surgeon, my internist, and my dietician. I continue to be amazed at the level of service and care that I have received by the medical staff. Having endured 3 surgeries in the past 3 years, including a cancer surgery, I was not expecting the quality of care at Clinica Biblica by the medical staff. The quality is far superior to what I received in the USA. Since I do not have insurance, I plan on returning for any future procedures that might be needed.
Best regards,
Steve Carmody - Gastric Sleeve
USA
Dear BACMT,
Given the superb quality of your service to your patients and their families, I should doubt that you need additional testimonials. Rather, you need to let people know that the quality of health care in Costa Rica equals or exceeds that available in the US at a fraction of the cost. Everyone we dealt with in the entire process made us feel comfortable and welcome, in spite of our inability to speak Spanish. Your department serving international guests helped remove the fear of being in a “foreign” country. We always felt safe, secure, and well attended.
Our case was probably unusual in that the entire matter needed to be arranged in virtually no time. But the facilitator we used found Hospital Clinica Biblica, and the right surgeon for my wife’s needs. And they did it very quickly.
It was not hard to verify your references. The hospital, doctors, staff, and particularly BACMT, lived up to the advanced billing.
The medical recovery facility we stayed at, Che Tica Ranch, was excellent in all respects. You can recommend them to anyone in complete comfort.
I’m not particularly good at thank you letters, but everyone involved has earned one. Please pass this on to Dr. Jacobo Zafrani, the wonderful nurses, your staff, and to Ruben and Lorena Martin at Che Tica.
The next time we need medical services, we are likely to return to Costa Rica. Only next time, perhaps we can stay an extra few days and see some more of the country.
Our thanks and gratitude to one and all.
Steven H. Goodman and Edith S. Davis - Gall Bladder Removal & Lap Band Removal
Kansas City, Kansas
Dear BACMT,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at the Clinica Biblica Hospital for the superior service that I received before, during, and after my Surgery.
My Family Practitioner was amazed at the number of Pre Surgical Tests that were done to insure my safety. Dr Zafrani was the most caring, and dedicated Surgeon that I have ever met. I went into my Surgery with complete confidence.
I daresay that I would ever receive this level of service in Canada. Kudos to your team, as well as Dr Zafrani for an amazing experience.
I will be coming back!
Judy Vent - Gastric Sleeve
Toronto, Canada
Hello,
I feel so lucky to have had BACMT to help me set up my medical needs while there in Costa Rica. I was planning to be there for two weeks to have meniscus knee surgery and needed dental procedures as well.
You set me up, without much notice, with Dr. Zapata. I am so grateful to have met Dr. Zapata and her team. My first day there I met with Dr. Zapata and expressed my dental needs and wants. Dr. Zapata and her team speak great English (she has picked up the expression o-key-doo-ke) so cute. She was very precise on what she could do for me and the costs.
She fit me in and did an incredible amount of work in the short time I was there. I had two gold teeth replaced as well as any with silver fillings replaced with resin. I had a bridge replaced that had chipped porcelain and another bridge that we capped two teeth and put a implant post in. To do that she also had to do a sinus lift. I had another post put in on the bottom.
To finish the two posts there is a six month waiting period to put the tooth on as the posts heal and get secure where they are at. When I went back to finish my dental work my husband went and she did another great job on his teeth. He had to have six extracts, four implants, seven resin fillings and after I had my teeth Zoom Whitened he had that done also. We couldn’t be happier with the results, care and the professionalism her team provided. I recommend Dr. Zapata for any dental needs. The care is exceptional and the price is fair.
Diana Oldham - Dental Surgery
USA
Hello,
I would like to thank you very much and let you know the experience that we had and continue to have with Dr. Zapata.
We would first like to say, we were immediately put at ease with her beautiful and lovely manner with the way she dealt with myself and my husband.
We had extensive dental work and bone reconstruction, and we could not have been happier with the results, as well as the treatment we received from Dr. Zapata and her team. She went above and beyond the call of duty when it came to our care.
Dr. Zapata and her team, took every minute that was needed to make our experience the best dental experience I have ever had. I personally have such a fear of dentist, it is very overwhelming for me to even sit in the chair.
Dr. Zapata, and her colleagues were exemplary in their task to make our dental experience one that was excellent. They work incredibly well together and did an extraordinary job on my teeth as well as my husbands.
We are going back in May to finish our procedures, and we can not say enough wonderful things about the experience with BACMT and Dr.Zapata at Clinica Biblica.
We would 100 percent return again in the future if we ever needed any kind of dental or other procedure done.
Yours truly,
Debbie Racicot Michael Nicholls - Dental Surgery
USA
PS: If any client wishes to speak with me, just let me know and I can call them or they can call us. Debbie!
Our experience with the Clinca Biblica Hospital, it’s medical staff and the professionals of the international department was truly extraordinary, from the first contact, through the difficult knee replacement surgery, to the last day there.
Always responsive, in a most helpful and caring way, these fine people maintain an excellent facility and first rate medical care system
Dr. Oeding was available, communicative and supportive at all times. His excellent work was noted by my orthopedic surgeon, after I returned home.
My wife and I are especially grateful to BACMT for guiding us through this process, proactively addressing our needs and often exceeding our expectations.
Charles Rychner - Total Knee Replacement
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Hello,
My name is Malcolm. I became very ill in October 2012 and the tests results showed an incompetent mitral valve. I was very worried so I wanted the best cardiac surgeon and I was recommended Dr. Xavier Ruyra at Barcelona International Surgical Institute. I was put at ease straight away and felt in safe hands. The operation and the aftercare were superb. I am now able to do all my sports and live a normal life. Thank you very much once again, for your professionalism, dedication and careness showed toward me and my wife and I during this stressful time.
Malcolm Debbage - Mitral Valve Surgery
Norfolk, United Kingdom
Dear BACMT,
I truly want to thank Dr. Oeding and your team for helping me get my life back. After several years of knee pain, total replacement was my only alternative. Once you and I made contact, I didn’t have to do anything but show up. You made all the arrangements and made me feel totally comfortable in a scary situation. Coming to Costa Rica, Clinica Biblica and having Dr. Oeding as my surgeon was a wonderful experience that I won’t soon forget. The hospital staff was so nice and made sure that I had everything I needed at all times.
For me, it was a relatively easy surgery. After a few days, I was walking on my own (although slowly) and after a month, I was back doing activities that I had not done in years. My only regret is that I did not get to see enough of your beautiful country……I will be back!
Judy Crocker - Total Knee Replacement
Snellville, Georgia
Dear BACMT,
I cannot begin to describe my feelings – I had no life at all – the degeneration in my hip kept me bedbound and the pain made me not care about life anymore. And the cost to me as an uninsured American in an American hospital would have been over $50,000.00, which was beyond my means at the time. My total cost at Clinica Biblica, which included airfare for two and the recovery center for ten days with rehab therapy and all meals for two people, was right around $18,500…roughly 1/3 the cost of the hospital alone in America. This is an incredible bargain that essentially made it possible for me to have a life worth living once again.
I won’t even go into my feelings regarding the quality of American hospital care vs. Costa Rican hospital care...I’ll save that for the interview, except to say that I never hope to be put in another American hospital again. I’m already planning my next visit to Clinica Biblica for some neurological work – Jan says this time I need a TBR (Total Brain Replacement.)
It might be easier for you just to forward this email to your journalist. It might stimulate some questions in him or her.
I am soon going to write Dr. Oeding my three-month report and I need to thank Isabel. But you guys will all see us again before very long.
My thanks to all of you.
Troy Wilson - Total Hip Replacement
Hi,
At the recommendation of my doctor, Dr. Oeding, I contacted BACMT to help facilitate my recent hip replacement surgery. I wish to thank you for arranging everything pre and post op and helping me through the whole process at the hospital. I live in Costa Rica and didn’t have to deal with the airport, etc., as people from outside the country do, which would have made their services even more helpful. I would definitely recommend contacting them if you’re considering medical treatment in Costa Rica.
Dr. Oeding is an outstanding orthopaedic doctor, in my opinion. He specializes in hips, knees, and shoulders. He speaks English well and was very friendly, patient, and has a wealth of experience when it comes to hip replacements. I was concerned about having the least invasive procedure possible, but also wanted a replacement that would allow me to continue be physically active, because I’m only 63 and not the sedintary type person. Dr. Oeding recommended the Taperlock Replacement System which is an upgrade from the standard system used. I think the surgery lasted about 2.5 hrs. and I have about a 4.5in. scar on my hip. It’s been 3 weeks since my surgery and I’m thrilled with my progress. I was up walking with the physical therapist the day after surgery. I returned home the 2nd day after surgery (we’re only a couple of hours from the hospital). I used a cane for the first week home and haven’t used it since then. I do my exercises and am progressing more and more every day. I’m driving now and able to walk about 2 miles without any problem. It’s such a wonderful relief to not have the pain and limited movement that I had before the surgery.
The Clinica Biblica Hospital is very nice and the nurses, physical therapists, and rest of the staff are great. The food wasn’t very consistent and ran from pretty good to not very good.
We stayed at the Palm House Inn the night before my surgery. It is small, neat, clean, and has a helpful staff, but I wouldn’t want to stay there for more than a day or so. If you’re going to be staying for a number of days after surgery before flying out, I would definitely suggest staying at one of the nicer (more expensive) hotels with more amenities that BACMT recommends.
Thank you again for all your help.
Best regards,
Terry Fickett - Hip Replacement
Hello,
My name is Marcos Santana. I am 32 years old and I am a Jehovah’s Witness. In 2010 I was diagnosed with a dissecting aortic aneurysm. Due to my strong religious convictions which are based on biblical teachings, I was not willing to receive blood transfusions and therefore I could find no surgeon who would perform surgery on me. With my existing alternatives in mind, I continued my search until I discovered Dr. Ruyra and his team who indeed were willing and able to carry out the surgery. In 2013 they operated on me, and did an excellent job of replacing my damaged aorta with a synthetic tube and thus they were able to resolve my problem. I’m deeply grateful for the work that Dr. Ruyra and his team carried out and I would like to thank him on me and all of my family’s behalf for respecting my personal beliefs, his confidence, his friendliness as well as, his professionalism.
Marcos Santana - Dissecting Aortic Aneurysm Bloodless Surgery
Barcelona, Spain
Hi,
Just wanted to thank yourselves, Dr Valverde and all the staff I met at Clinica Biblica Hospital. You all made the experience very comfortable and I will recommend Clinica Biblica to anyone who needs similar surgery. The follow up care in the hotel by physiotherapist Hans and nurse Manuel was equally professional.
Thank you,
Andrew Drescher - Total Hip Replacement
Melbourne, Florida
To my new friends at Clinica Biblica Hospital:
Being treated and listened to as a real person by real doctors on a direct one-to-one basis with my best interest, health and needs being placed first was more than refreshing.
I am looking forward to a full recovery from surgery for a serious clavicle injury, and the normal use of my arm. My life has been renewed. I got the serious and immediate attention no U.S. doctor I found would give me. I did my research and emailed my x-rays to Dr. Oscar Oeding, who promptly telephoned me directly. I found his assessment and recommended procedure in agreement with mine – going beyond what any U.S. doctor was willing to discuss.Imagine making a serious decision for surgery with one phone call!
No surgery is easy, but having full confidence in Dr. Oeding is making every step of my recovery endurable.Unlike my experience in the USA, I not just felt, but knew that the patient came before the money. There was not a moment that my every need was not attended to, my every question or concern not addressed – and always with a smile.
My business puts me in contact with many people who think the USA has the best doctors. The expertise and professionalism I experienced from everyone from the coffee stand to the operating room at Clinica Biblica Hospital dispelled any anxiety I may have had about obtaining help outside the USA, especially when the advice I received from US doctors was “live with it” and I knew I could not.
The staff in the BACMT was there for me every step of the way, including not just recommending but making arrangements for affordable, restful housing and prompt transportation, and willingly attending to my personal needs. As for the price? Well, for a person who is “self-insured” – I found I could afford it. In the long run I have paid less and had less hassle and paperwork than with any insurance company.
Perhaps I am out of the ordinary. But after being offered “free” surgery by a U.S. Orthopedic surgeon on the assumption that I agreed with his assessment (which I did not) and that without insurance I could not pay, I turned it down without even asking the price. Confidence and trust is something money cannot buy. I found it at Clinica Biblica Hospital.
Teddy Lancaster - Clavicle Fracture Repair
Kitts Hill, Ohio
Hello,
My name is César Banet, and I’m from La Coruña, Spain. About two years ago I was diagnosed with Arachnoiditis. After having visited a ton of neurosurgeons, I discovered Dr. Ferrer, who was the only one who dared to surgically treat my condition, and the only one that gave me hope and who helped to relax me in the process.
For me, in addition to being a great neurosurgeon, he is extremely involved with his patients and honestly I only have great things to say about him. After about two years of knowing and after all of my different procedures, I really consider Dr. Ferrer my friend and the only thing I hope for, is that he can get me back to a state in which I can get up and stand on my own and finally leave the wheelchair behind.
César Banet - Arachnoid(itis
Coruña, Spain
Dear BACMT,
You were not only professionals, but you were compassionate to me and my father’s needs. You couldn’t have done a better job. Much appreciated.
Regarding the hospital room, the nurses were extremely professional and thorough. They helped me every time I needed it. The doctor’s were very professional, very thorough in explaining procedure and very informative. In the last seven years I have had eight doctors and your treatment to me has been better than all eight doctors combined. Thanks for your great care.
Regarding the hotel room, first two days a little noisy, room 105. Then moved to room 502 which was perfect. Excellent maid service. Very clean conditions. Very satisfied.
Overall, excellent experience, especially Costa Rica´s health care system.
Thank you very much!
Dale and Vince Dugdale - Total Knee Replacement
Iowa, USA
Dear BACMT,
I am wanting to thank you and your staff personally, Dr. Oeding, the hospital staff, The Casa Conde Hotel, and my travel guides for my recent stay in Costa Rica for a total knee replacement.
There is so much to be thankful for in finding you.I do not know hardly where to begin.
First, my initial contact with you was by e-mail on a Friday evening. You called me back on Monday and from there we e-mailed and talked daily, sometimes 2 & 3 times. You reassured me during a very stressful time and only after I was sure in my mind that I could receive quality care, did I make the heartfelt decision to go to Costa Rica. I still had plenty of doubts regarding safety, transportation, lodging, and communication, all of which quickly disappeared as soon as I arrived. Had I not been there for such serious surgery, I would have thought I was in a vacation resort spa.
The fact that I had to do absolutely nothing except show up is what is really incredible. You made all of the arrangements for me as soon as I arrived until I left. My doctor and surgery visits, including nursing and rehab care after I left the hospital, my meals, hotel needs, and tours- not one thing was overlooked by you or your staff. Never would I have imagined that all this could have been possible at 80% less than I was about to pay here. Not one price was changed after the fact. What you told me in the beginning is what I paid. I am sincerely grateful to you for the honesty.
I am especially grateful to Dr. Oeding for the excellent quality of his work. Because of his work, my rehab has gone exceptionally well and I am much further along in my progress than I would have ever imaged. Having gone through a total knee replacement on my other leg in 2001, this rehab cannot even compare to the previous one. The less invasive technique which Dr. Oeding used is half the incision length of my other leg. Of course that means less pain, less healing, faster rehab, etc. The comparison of surgeons is that there is none. Of the less invasive technique, my surgeon here said, “I see no benefit, either to the patient or the doctor in doing the surgery any different than what was done the last time.” How arrogant!!
Only after my last consultation, as I was getting ready to go home, did I find out that the agreed upon date of surgery, Friday, July 27th, was not a surgery day for Dr. Oeding. He scheduled me in order to fit into my schedule. How awesome! That would have never happened here. Not once did I have difficulty in communicating, either with the hospital staff or the staff at the Casa Conde. If someone answered in Spanish, they quickly replied in English or got someone who could speak English. How refreshing! The nurses genuinely cared for my well being and made sure that the pain and antibiotic medication was administered as prescribed. Not once did I have to ask for additional pain medication.
Lastly, the icing on the cake were the tours and visits around Costa Rica. The San Jose tour the day I arrived, the dinner and folklore dancers at the scenic restaurant Tiquicia, the coffee and banana plantation tour the day I got out of the hospital, the volcano and tour of Lancaster Gardens of the University of Costa Rica and the typical traditional meals with my tour guide. Who wouldn’t want to come back? I look forward to seeing you all later in the year.
Thank you again and God bless you all!
Your New Best Friend,
Kathie Foy - Total Knee Replacement
Germantown, Tennessee
Dear BACMT staff,
You have been a wonderful guide and companion through this journey. This hospital is the nicest I have ever seen. The nursing staff is extraordinary. The physicians clearly cared as much about me, a visiting patient, as the best treating physicians I have known in regular life. I could not have asked for better, more caring, more skilled treatment.
All physicians were clearly competent, well equipped, and caring. They treated me with the care and courtesy I would hope to receive from my regular physician or specialist at home. These doctors are breathtakingly capable. Dr. Zafrani did the Lap Band procedure on a Friday. I was out shopping in the open air craft markets of San Jose the following Monday. Dr. Wu Chin was right on top of things when my blood sugar went up after surgery. Both doctors visited, and arranged extra follow up appointments to be certain that I was fully cared for. I do not think medical care gets better than this. From now on, if I need serious medical care, I will come to Costa Rica.
These nurses study 6 years to earn their RN. They are very professional, very competent, and fully bilingual. In addition to their excellent work, I appreciated the pride and professionalism symbolized by their hard earned caps and immaculate uniforms. They are a very comforting sight to a patient who is far from home.
This is the nicest hospital I have ever seen. I have lived in apartments that were smaller than the beautiful hospital room we had. There was a comfortable bed, in a separate space, for my husband. There was room….so much room. The colors of the room were fascinating. The bathroom was very large and very safe. If there is a better hospital out there, I cannot imagine what they must have! This is truly as good as the very best.
We stayed at Adventure Inn, a small hotel. It was immaculate. The rooms were large, tasteful, and well furnished. The staff was very courteous. This small hotel is economical and excellent. It is a good value. They are preparing special meals to meet my post surgical dietary needs.
BACMT, Hospital Clinica Biblica, all of the wonderful doctors and nurses, our drivers, and the staff at Adventure Inn exceeded our best expectations.
Glenda Durham - Gastric Sleeve
USA
Hi Guys,
Got your voice message last night (Friday the 13th!!). I work odd hours and am sorry I wasn’t here to pick up your call. I can’t believe I left for Costa Rica a month ago TODAY!!! A month has passed already!!! I am doing well. Please give my regards to Dr. Zafrani. I am pleased to report that I have lost 22 lbs to date (and I am still 3 days short of a month from my surgery date!!). I feel pretty good; I have not progressed any further than soup with my diet as yet. I am sort of nervous to try “eating” anything; even soft foods. Liquids are doing good plus I have a high protein/low calorie shake every day to keep my protein intake up. You can forward this email to Dr. Zafrani if you like. Again, all is well here in California and I am excited about my weight loss. I already have a pile of clothes that are too big for me!! And I plan to NEVER wear them again!!
G. St Clair - Gastric Sleeve
USA
Dear BACMT,
I hope all is well with you. I am doing good- it has been 11 weeks since my surgery and I have lost 58 pounds! I am using a personal trainer and I am exercising 4-5 times a week. I feel great!!! I am sorry it has taken me so long to get back to you, but my internet is not working properly. I hope this helps. I have been recommending your program to a lot of people!
I had a great experience with Dr. Zafrani and his staff at Hospital Clinica Biblica. I am an RN in the United States and after 8 years of trying to find an insurance that would cover the gastric bypass surgery, I decided to pay for it myself. While I was researching surgery in Mexico, I came across an article about medical tourism which mentioned that a hospital in Costa Rica is accredited from JCAHO. This was a big deal for me, as this is the same organization that accredits hospitals in the US. I requested information from the website, received a quick response, and everything went smoothly from there. I had a lot of co-workers and friends who tried to talk me out of going to another country, but my mind was made up. I was even more reassured when we arrived at the airport in Costa Rica and our driver, Juan Carlos was waiting for us, although the flight had been delayed. Everyone was wonderful- Juan Carlos, our driver and tour guide was very knowledgeable about Costa Rica. I do not speak Spanish, but I had little trouble communicating in this beautiful country.
At the hotel we met 2 more Americans who were having bariatric surgery as well. I have formed lasting friendships with both of these ladies and their families. It was a special treat to tour the countryside with these fellow Americans.
A huge thank you to your staff, who arranged all the details. I was impressed by the layout of the hospital- all the clinics on one side, where I had all the pre-op tests completed and the hospital on the other side, where my surgery was 2 days later. It was an extra special touch when you sat with me before my surgery and calmed my nerves with a prayer. Dr. Zafrani was great, he is a very knowledgeable and skilled surgeon. The nurses and hospital staff were all very friendly and professional. Post-op, after returning to my hotel, a nurse visited me for 3 days to make sure my recovery was going well. You even made the arrangements for our hotel stay at El Rodeo, and everyone there was very helpful. I can not say thank you enough to everyone who made this life changing experience possible. I have recommended this experience to many people and I would do it all over again.
Thank you!
Danell Kistner, RN - Gastric Bypass
Hollister, California
Dear BACMT,
What an amazing experience was my surgery at Hospital Clinica Biblica!
What began as a simple quest for relief from my high blood pressure, diabetes, and back pain turned into an introduction to a gentleman I now consider to be one of the finest surgeons in the world, Dr. Mario Saenz. Why would I make this statement? Two reasons primarily…one my surgery had zero complications. I remember and felt nothing during my operation. And two the results…I have currently lost 59 pounds with ease (down from 244 to 185) and I feel great.
I am 62. Everyday before my operation, I used to truly believe I was very close to passing away. I felt that bad. Now I feel great, and I believe Dr. Saenz has extended my life for at least another 20 years. Oh yes, and did I mention that the cost of my surgery was half of what it would have been in the U.S. ($15,000 – check it out for yourself). From my private room with all the modern amenities to my painless operation experience…
First Class all the way and highly recommended!
Roger Hailey - Gastric Bypass
Doral, Florida
Hello,
Yes, it has been 3 months since I had my procedure at Clinica Biblica. I am very satisfied, almost amazed at my weight loss; close to 60 lbs. My life has changed for the better and I am feeling better about my health and my physique. What few issues I had post-surgery, were quickly answered via e-mail by my surgeon, my internist, and my dietician. I continue to be amazed at the level of service and care that I have received by the medical staff. Having endured 3 surgeries in the past 3 years, including a cancer surgery, I was not expecting the quality of care at Clinica Biblica by the medical staff. The quality is far superior to what I received in the USA. Since I do not have insurance, I plan on returning for any future procedures that might be needed.
Best regards,
Steve Carmody - Gastric Sleeve
USA
Dear BACMT,
Given the superb quality of your service to your patients and their families, I should doubt that you need additional testimonials. Rather, you need to let people know that the quality of health care in Costa Rica equals or exceeds that available in the US at a fraction of the cost. Everyone we dealt with in the entire process made us feel comfortable and welcome, in spite of our inability to speak Spanish. Your department serving international guests helped remove the fear of being in a “foreign” country. We always felt safe, secure, and well attended.
Our case was probably unusual in that the entire matter needed to be arranged in virtually no time. But the facilitator we used found Hospital Clinica Biblica, and the right surgeon for my wife’s needs. And they did it very quickly.
It was not hard to verify your references. The hospital, doctors, staff, and particularly BACMT, lived up to the advanced billing.
The medical recovery facility we stayed at, Che Tica Ranch, was excellent in all respects. You can recommend them to anyone in complete comfort.
I’m not particularly good at thank you letters, but everyone involved has earned one. Please pass this on to Dr. Jacobo Zafrani, the wonderful nurses, your staff, and to Ruben and Lorena Martin at Che Tica.
The next time we need medical services, we are likely to return to Costa Rica. Only next time, perhaps we can stay an extra few days and see some more of the country.
Our thanks and gratitude to one and all.
Steven H. Goodman and Edith S. Davis - Gall Bladder Removal & Lap Band Removal
Kansas City, Kansas
Dear BACMT,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at the Clinica Biblica Hospital for the superior service that I received before, during, and after my Surgery.
My Family Practitioner was amazed at the number of Pre Surgical Tests that were done to insure my safety. Dr Zafrani was the most caring, and dedicated Surgeon that I have ever met. I went into my Surgery with complete confidence.
I daresay that I would ever receive this level of service in Canada. Kudos to your team, as well as Dr Zafrani for an amazing experience.
I will be coming back!
Judy Vent - Gastric Sleeve
Toronto, Canada
Hello,
I feel so lucky to have had BACMT to help me set up my medical needs while there in Costa Rica. I was planning to be there for two weeks to have meniscus knee surgery and needed dental procedures as well.
You set me up, without much notice, with Dr. Zapata. I am so grateful to have met Dr. Zapata and her team. My first day there I met with Dr. Zapata and expressed my dental needs and wants. Dr. Zapata and her team speak great English (she has picked up the expression o-key-doo-ke) so cute. She was very precise on what she could do for me and the costs.
She fit me in and did an incredible amount of work in the short time I was there. I had two gold teeth replaced as well as any with silver fillings replaced with resin. I had a bridge replaced that had chipped porcelain and another bridge that we capped two teeth and put a implant post in. To do that she also had to do a sinus lift. I had another post put in on the bottom.
To finish the two posts there is a six month waiting period to put the tooth on as the posts heal and get secure where they are at. When I went back to finish my dental work my husband went and she did another great job on his teeth. He had to have six extracts, four implants, seven resin fillings and after I had my teeth Zoom Whitened he had that done also. We couldn’t be happier with the results, care and the professionalism her team provided. I recommend Dr. Zapata for any dental needs. The care is exceptional and the price is fair.
Diana Oldham - Dental Surgery
USA
Hello,
I would like to thank you very much and let you know the experience that we had and continue to have with Dr. Zapata.
We would first like to say, we were immediately put at ease with her beautiful and lovely manner with the way she dealt with myself and my husband.
We had extensive dental work and bone reconstruction, and we could not have been happier with the results, as well as the treatment we received from Dr. Zapata and her team. She went above and beyond the call of duty when it came to our care.
Dr. Zapata and her team, took every minute that was needed to make our experience the best dental experience I have ever had. I personally have such a fear of dentist, it is very overwhelming for me to even sit in the chair.
Dr. Zapata, and her colleagues were exemplary in their task to make our dental experience one that was excellent. They work incredibly well together and did an extraordinary job on my teeth as well as my husbands.
We are going back in May to finish our procedures, and we can not say enough wonderful things about the experience with BACMT and Dr.Zapata at Clinica Biblica.
We would 100 percent return again in the future if we ever needed any kind of dental or other procedure done.
Yours truly,
Debbie Racicot Michael Nicholls - Dental Surgery
USA
PS: If any client wishes to speak with me, just let me know and I can call them or they can call us. Debbie!
