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First Health Check

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about First Health Check UK to India preventive health assessments. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Email us anytime at info@firsthealthcheck.com

Frequently asked Questions. Everything you need to know about First Health Check.
Get clear answers on our healthcare programmes, UK to India travel, and bookings.

No one wishes for their life to be shortened unnecessarily. We all value health, longevity and the ability to live well. Yet serious illnesses such as coronary heart disease and cancer can strike without warning, often progressing silently until symptoms finally appear. By then, precious opportunities for treatment may have been lost.

First Health Check Preventive Health Assessment provides a proactive alternative. It is designed to identify potential health issues at the earliest possible stage, often long before symptoms develop, giving clients the best chance of timely intervention, effective treatment and a healthier future.

Take lung cancer as an example. In the UK, around 50,000 people are diagnosed every year, making it the nation’s third most common cancer. Current outcomes are bleak, with only five per cent of patients surviving beyond ten years — largely because the disease is too often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Despite medical advances, long‑term survival rates have barely improved in several decades.

However, early cancer detection transforms outcomes. The advanced diagnostic imaging used in a First Health Check assessment can detect tumours when they are still only a few millimetres in size. When identified early, survival rates change dramatically: more than 95 percent of patients survive beyond ten years. This is the very purpose of preventive health screening — to provide life‑changing clarity before illness takes hold.

Our Platinum Preventive Health Assessment has been curated by internationally recognised physicians to screen for up to 95 percent of the leading causes of premature death. These include cardiovascular disease, cancers and metabolic disorders, conditions that, when caught early, can often be treated or managed with far greater success.

For those seeking a private full body health check that goes beyond the limitations of standard UK services, First Health Check offers a service built around early diagnosis, world‑class clinicians and personalised care. It is preventive medicine of the highest standard, combining depth of assessment with the reassurance of clarity.

At First Health Check, we provide a unique opportunity to undergo a comprehensive preventive health assessment in the vibrant city of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India — a destination increasingly recognised as a leader in medical tourism. We collaborate with BAPS Hospital, established in 2010, and GIC Prime Imaging Centre, to deliver advanced diagnostics and internationally benchmarked standards of care.

What distinguishes us is our absolute focus on precision, personalisation and excellence. Unlike providers who rely on predictive models or routine checklists, we deliver concrete, data‑driven insights rooted in rigorous testing. Before any assessment, a senior physician reviews your detailed medical history and risk factors. This ensures you undergo not a generic package, but the specific assessment most appropriate for your individual profile.

Our state‑of‑the‑art diagnostic equipment, operated by highly skilled radiographers, produces ultra‑detailed scans, which are then interpreted by some of the world’s most experienced radiologists and consultants. The results, along with extensive blood testing, are compiled into a personalised health report. Every client meets with a senior physician who not only reviews the findings but explains them clearly, offering actionable, evidence‑based advice for long‑term health planning.

By choosing First Health Check, you access world‑class private health screening in India at a fraction of the price charged for less detailed services in the UK. Our preventive health assessments are deeper, more comprehensive and clinically robust than those typically found in Britain, yet remain affordable without compromise on quality, safety or service.

The journey itself is designed as a five‑star experience. From luxury hotel accommodation and private transport to curated sightseeing, including a private river cruise, every detail is arranged by our team. Most importantly, you are never left unsupported: a member of the First Health Check team is with you at all times, providing reassurance, coordination and genuine concierge‑style care.

Your trip to India is therefore not only about safeguarding your future health but also about discovering one of the world’s most captivating countries. The historical richness of Ahmedabad and the landscapes beyond transform your health assessment into an unforgettable experience that blends early disease detection with cultural discovery.

At First Health Check, we believe that exceptional healthcare should be accessible, preventive and empowering. Our packages are designed to offer more than peace of mind — they provide knowledge, clarity and confidence, enabling you to make informed decisions and embrace a healthier, longer life.

Take control of your future health with First Health Check — because your well-being deserves nothing less.

At First Health Check, we believe in clarity as much as care. That is why the price of your preventive health assessment is fully transparent, fixed and agreed at the outset. There are no hidden extras for scans, consultations or diagnostic evaluations. The full fee is payable in advance before you travel to India, so you can board your flight with complete confidence that everything is arranged and there will be no surprises on arrival.

If your results require referral to a specialist or further treatment, additional costs may apply, but for the comprehensive health assessment itself, the agreed fee remains constant. This gives every client reassurance and certainty throughout the three days.

What sets First Health Check apart from UK private providers is not only the fixed pricing but also the exceptional comparative value we deliver. Our assessments are delivered at a fraction of the cost of UK private equivalents, while offering far greater depth. Where many UK clinics rely on limited blood panels or basic imaging, our programme harnesses world‑class radiological scanning, advanced diagnostic testing and senior consultant oversight, offering a more detailed and accurate picture of your health.

Every one of our three assessment packages includes far more than medical care alone. Five‑star hotel accommodation, private transport throughout, sightseeing and a private river cruise are all standard. In addition, each client is accompanied by a member of our team for the entire three days, ensuring constant support, seamless coordination and a concierge‑style experience where every request is attended to.

UK providers frequently charge more while offering far less. With First Health Check, you receive thorough and personalised preventive health screening that is more comprehensive, more affordable and more supportive, delivered within an experience that combines clinical excellence with five‑star hospitality.

This is healthcare redefined: rigorous, transparent and life enhancing.

Yes. A preventive health assessment is designed to uncover risks long before symptoms appear, giving you the knowledge and reassurance needed to take control of your wellbeing. Using advanced diagnostic imaging, comprehensive blood analysis and specialist evaluation, our assessments can reveal serious conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other hidden illnesses at their earliest stages, when treatment has the greatest chance of success.

Each client is treated as an individual. Senior physicians review medical history, lifestyle factors and any family predispositions before advising which of our assessment programmes is most appropriate. Nothing is left to guesswork. This ensures what you undergo is tailored to you and provides clarity, rather than being based on standardised models or narrow checklists.

By identifying problems at the point where they can still be managed effectively, preventive assessments do more than bring peace of mind. They give you the opportunity to act early, improve outcomes and protect your long‑term health.

Early detection saves lives. Our purpose is to make sure you are equipped with both the insight and the confidence to safeguard yours.

No referral is required. Our preventive health assessments are open to clients directly. You will begin by completing a detailed medical questionnaire, which allows our team to build a clear understanding of your personal health background. A senior consultant will then review your information carefully and recommend the most appropriate option from our three assessment programmes.

This ensures that the package you undertake is not chosen at random but is guided by clinical expertise, tailored to your history, and aligned with your individual needs.

Preventive health assessments are safe for the vast majority of clients, but as with any clinical procedure, there are specific considerations for people with certain health conditions. These depend largely on the type of imaging or testing involved.

MRI scanning is not suitable for clients with some metallic implants, such as pacemakers, cochlear implants or surgical clips, which can be affected by powerful magnetic fields. For individuals living with severe or untreated claustrophobia, MRI can also present challenges, although modern 3T MRI scanners are faster, quieter and designed with more space to improve comfort.

CT scanning involves a small degree of ionising radiation. While modern low‑dose technology has reduced exposure significantly, caution is required for anyone who may need repeat scans within a short timeframe. CT is also not recommended during pregnancy. For other clients, the balance of minimal risk against powerful early detection of life‑threatening conditions such as lung cancer, coronary artery disease and bowel disease is clear.

Blood testing and other elements of the assessments carry no risk.

When an assessment may not be suitable:

  • Clients with non‑MRI‑compatible implants, including certain pacemakers, cochlear implants or surgical clips.
  • Pregnant women, for whom CT is inappropriate.
  • Individuals with severe claustrophobia, although modern systems significantly improve comfort.
  • Those for whom multiple CT scans in a short timeframe may be inadvisable.

Every client completes a detailed medical questionnaire before travelling, which is carefully reviewed by a senior physician. No assessment is carried out unless it is considered clinically safe and necessary, and all scanning is overseen by highly trained radiographers. Packages are personalised, so clients undergo only the investigations that are appropriate for their condition and risk profile.

In summary, while certain groups require greater care, risks are carefully assessed and minimised. These assessments remain non‑invasive, evidence‑based and individually tailored, ensuring the benefits of early disease detection far outweigh the potential limitations.

Preparing for your health assessment is straightforward, but a few simple steps are important to ensure accuracy of results.

General preparation:

  • Fast and avoid caffeine and alcohol for at least eight hours before the assessment.
  • On the day, do not exercise and avoid wearing excessive jewellery.
  • Wear comfortable clothing and, if you require vision correction, bring spectacles rather than contact lenses.
    These practical measures help ensure diagnostic results are clear and reliable.

For CT scanning (if included):
Certain assessments may require additional preparation. Clients may be advised to follow a low‑residue diet for 12 hours prior to scanning and drink an oral contrast agent. This harmless dye enables radiologists to distinguish between normal digestive residue and areas of concern such as polyps, allowing for a more accurate analysis.

All preparation requirements are fully explained by a senior physician in advance, who will guide you step by step and answer any questions. In addition, our client support team is always available by phone or email should you need further clarification before your trip.

By following these straightforward instructions, you can be confident that your assessment will be conducted under optimal conditions, producing the most reliable results to guide your personalised health plan.

Yes. MRI scanning is a central element of our preventive health assessments because it remains one of the safest and most effective methods for examining internal organs and structures in detail without using radiation. By employing powerful magnetic fields and radio waves, MRI allows clinicians to view parts of the body that conventional X‑rays, ultrasounds or CT scans cannot show with comparable precision.

The quality of an MRI scan is determined by the strength of its magnets, measured in Tesla (T). Most MRI scanners, including the majority in the UK, operate at 1.5 Tesla, which produces good diagnostic images. We go further, offering access to the latest 3 Tesla MRI scanners, which generate a magnetic field twice as strong and can deliver images with 10 to 15 times greater resolution than earlier open MRI systems.

The benefits are clear. 3T MRI produces sharper, more detailed images in less time, often capturing slices as fine as one millimetre. This allows physicians to detect abnormalities that may be missed by lower‑resolution scans, from small tumours and vascular disorders to subtle joint damage or early signs of infection. It is especially valuable in examining the brain, spine, musculoskeletal system and vascular networks, and has become the gold standard for prostate imaging, particularly in multiparametric prostate cancer detection.

For clients, the advantages are not only diagnostic but also experiential. Faster scans reduce time in the machine, and modern 3T systems have a wider, shorter bore, making them more comfortable for larger clients, frail individuals, or those with claustrophobia. Because 3T MRI is less prone to distortion, the need for repeat scans is reduced, improving efficiency and comfort.

Despite its clinical advantages, 3T MRI remains relatively rare in the UK due to higher costs and operational complexity. Few centres offer it as standard. By contrast, our programmes include this state‑of‑the‑art technology through a trusted imaging partner based close to our main facility in Ahmedabad. This ensures clients receive what our clinical leadership believes to be the highest level of imaging available today, a cornerstone in delivering precise diagnostics and early detection.

MRI scanning is entirely non‑invasive and, unlike many advanced technologies, 3T MRI comes at no additional cost within our assessments. It reflects our commitment to providing the most advanced care possible, ensuring clients benefit from world‑class imaging that delivers both accuracy and peace of mind.

All preventive health assessment investigations, including CT, ECG, EOS, ultrasound, full‑body mole scans and comprehensive blood tests, are carried out at BAPS hospital in Ahmedabad. Beyond convenience, the priority is ensuring clients have access to the highest‑quality equipment and diagnostic technology available.

In Ahmedabad, only a small number of 3 Tesla MRI scanners exist. Through an exclusive collaboration with a leading facility located a short distance from BAPS hospital, we are able to provide clients with access to this advanced technology. For comfort and ease, private transportation is arranged, and you are personally accompanied to and from the MRI centre so your experience remains seamless and hassle‑free.

Clients consistently tell us that when given the choice between remaining in one building or making a short journey to access superior equipment, the decision is clear. The enhanced resolution and diagnostic power of the 3T MRI greatly improves the likelihood of detecting disease at the earliest possible stage. Making this level of technology available is a central part of our commitment to delivering the very best preventive care.

Our preventive health assessments are designed to be completed in just three days, providing a fast, thorough and efficient evaluation without compromising on depth or quality. Every stage is carefully coordinated so that multiple advanced investigations — including scans, blood tests and consultations — are delivered seamlessly within a short, structured timeframe.

Senior clinicians guide you through the process from beginning to end, ensuring you are fully informed, supported and confident at every stage. Before you travel, our team is available by phone or email (info@firsthealthcheck.com) to answer questions and help with preparation.

From the initial enquiry through to the conclusion of your assessment, the experience is designed to be reassuring, efficient and comprehensive, giving you the clarity you need about your health in the shortest practical time.

Our preventive health assessments are designed to detect even the earliest and most subtle signs of potential illness. While many findings are minor — for example, slightly abnormal blood results — these typically require nothing more than lifestyle adjustments or a discussion of possible treatment options. In some cases, however, advanced imaging may reveal more significant concerns that warrant further medical attention.

All results are carefully reviewed with you by senior consultants. They will explain the implications clearly and provide guidance on the most appropriate next steps, whether that involves changes in lifestyle, preventive measures or medical treatment.

If specialist input is required, referrals are arranged to highly qualified experts in the appropriate field. Clients are never left unsupported during this process. Continuous guidance and reassurance are provided throughout your entire journey, ensuring you understand each stage and can act on your results with confidence.

A complete set of your health assessment documents is provided at the end of the programme. This enables your UK‑based doctor to review the findings on your return and advise you on any longer‑term follow‑up or treatment, creating seamless continuity of care.

The aim is simple: to combine world‑class early detection with clarity, reassurance and ongoing support, so that peace of mind continues well beyond the assessment itself.

To discover what to expect during your three-day preventative health assessment, please view our detailed schedule on our

Your Three Days In Detail

The frequency of preventive health assessments is tailored to each individual. Factors such as age, medical history, lifestyle, family risk, and the results of your initial evaluation all influence how regularly you should be screened.

As a broad guideline, a comprehensive health assessment every three to five years is recommended for most adults. This interval supports the early detection of potential conditions while providing time to act on recommendations from your previous evaluation.

For clients with specific health concerns, a strong family history of disease, or risk factors identified during their first assessment, more frequent or targeted screenings may be advised. This ensures that care remains proactive, precise and aligned with your evolving health needs.

The aim is not only to detect disease early but to create a long‑term preventive strategy that helps safeguard your wellbeing throughout life.

Patient safety, trust and compliance are fundamental to every assessment we facilitate. All medical investigations and treatments are undertaken by respected healthcare institutions in India that adhere to strict clinical standards.

Our health assessments are conducted at BAPS Hospital in Ahmedabad, a modern medical centre established in 2010. The hospital is NABH accredited (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare Providers), India’s most rigorous independent quality standard, comparable to international benchmarks for safety, governance and clinical excellence.

For advanced diagnostic imaging, we work closely with GIC Prime Imaging Centre, which provides access to some of the most sophisticated technology available, including 3 Tesla MRI and low‑dose CT scanning. These facilities are equipped with state‑of‑the‑art systems operated by highly experienced radiographers and reporting radiologists, ensuring imaging of exceptional clarity and precision.

This combination allows every client to undergo their health check within fully accredited hospital facilities, while also benefiting from exclusive access to the most advanced diagnostic imaging technology in the region. The process is designed to prioritise both accuracy and safety, with senior physicians overseeing every stage of care.

Your results are always delivered with security, clarity and convenience in mind. Each client receives a comprehensive digital copy of their full health assessment. This is encrypted and sent to your verified email address, giving you secure, immediate access wherever you are in the world. It also supports a more sustainable approach, reducing unnecessary use of paper.

We recognise that some clients prefer a printed record, particularly when sharing results with their local doctor. For those who would like one, a professionally prepared hard copy can also be provided before departure. Clients who are continuing their journey to explore India often choose to travel light and rely on the digital version only, while others value having both.

Whichever format you select, you can be assured that your results are delivered in full, explained carefully by a senior physician, and made available in a way that respects both your personal preferences and practical needs.

Protecting the confidentiality of your personal and medical information is a central priority. All data collected during your health assessment is processed and stored in full compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and applicable international privacy laws. Both our facilitation service and BAPS Hospital operate to stringent standards of data governance, ensuring that sensitive information is kept secure, private and handled only with your consent.

Data is encrypted to recognised industry standards both when stored and when transmitted. Access is strictly limited to authorised professionals under a role‑based control system, and every action involving personal data is logged to create a full audit trail. Regular internal reviews and compliance audits are carried out to verify that standards of confidentiality and security are maintained.

We also follow the principles of data minimisation and storage limitation. This means only the information necessary for your assessment is collected, it is used solely for its intended medical purpose, and it is held for no longer than required. Once data is no longer needed, it is securely destroyed.

Our commitment is clear: your personal information is treated with the highest level of security, integrity and respect, in full accordance with GDPR requirements of fairness, transparency, lawfulness and accountability.

We provide a range of secure and convenient payment methods to make the process as smooth as possible. All major credit and debit cards are accepted, including Visa, MasterCard and American Express. For clients who prefer digital platforms, payments can also be made through PayPal or Klarna, offering additional flexibility.

For those who wish to use direct banking channels, we are happy to accept bank transfers and BACS payments. Regardless of the method chosen, every transaction is processed securely and transparently, giving you confidence at every stage.

We do not currently provide finance options. However, we are actively exploring ways to introduce flexible payment solutions in the future, reflecting our commitment to making our preventive health assessments as accessible as possible. Our goal is always to balance transparency, security and client care, and we will continue to evolve our services in line with our clients’ needs.

If you are pregnant, we strongly advise postponing your health assessment until after your baby has been born. This is because both MRI and CT scans are generally not recommended during pregnancy. Your safety, and that of your child, is our first concern, so assessments are best carried out once it is clinically appropriate to do so.

Yes. Both BAPS Hospital and GIC Prime Imaging Centre are fully equipped to welcome clients with disabilities, providing accessible facilities and supportive environments throughout the assessment process. From arrival to imaging and consultations, every stage is planned with consideration for mobility, comfort and dignity.

To help us ensure care is tailored to your needs, we kindly ask clients to let us know in advance if any special assistance is required. This allows our team to make the appropriate preparations and provide the highest standard of support.

Our commitment is simple: every assessment should be comfortable, dignified and stress‑free. Accessibility is an integral part of the service, ensuring that clients receive thorough medical evaluations delivered with professionalism, compassion and understanding.

We recognise that travelling for a health assessment is a significant commitment, particularly for parents. Because the assessment process is intensive and spans three days, we generally advise attending without children so that you can focus fully on your own wellbeing.

However, we also understand that childcare arrangements are not always possible. Should you need to bring children with you, please let us know in advance. We can arrange fully vetted childcare support, ensuring your children remain safely on the premises and are supervised at all times by a dedicated member of our client relations team.

This approach allows you to give your full attention to your health while knowing your children are being cared for in a safe, supportive environment.

The booking process begins with an advisory consultation, ensuring that your chosen assessment package is tailored precisely to your individual needs. One of our senior consultants will review your medical history, lifestyle factors and risk profile with you, then recommend the most appropriate programme — Gold, Diamond or Platinum. This means your selection is based on professional clinical guidance rather than guesswork.

Once your consultation has taken place, booking is straightforward and secure. You can complete your purchase by selecting the relevant package either from the individual assessment page or directly from the “Purchase Gold, Diamond and Platinum Assessment” tab on our homepage.

From there you will be taken to a secure payment portal, where you can confirm your details and select your preferred payment method. The process is seamless and transparent, designed to make arranging your health assessment as simple and reassuring as possible.

Yes. While we do not issue visas directly, obtaining an Indian e‑Medical Visa is straightforward, reliable and completed entirely online. This visa category is designed specifically for international visitors travelling for medical purposes and is typically approved within 48 hours.

You can apply through the official Government of India e‑Visa portal. During the application, you will select your port of arrival. If flying directly for your assessment, please choose Ahmedabad International Airport, or the most appropriate option for your itinerary. As part of the process, you’ll need to upload a medical invitation letter, which we provide in advance to ensure your application proceeds smoothly.

For the best experience, we recommend completing the application on a desktop computer, as the form is easier to navigate on a larger screen.

Before applying, please check that:

  • Your passport is valid for at least six months from your planned arrival in India.
  • You have at least two blank pages available for visa stamps.
  • You understand that visa fees are non‑refundable, even if an application is unsuccessful.

Our team is on hand to assist with questions at every stage, from supplying the necessary documentation to guiding you through the application process. You will never be left unsupported when arranging your travel documentation.

BAPS Hospital in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, is a respected medical institution recognised for blending advanced technology with an ethos of compassion, guided by its founding under the BAPS Swaminarayan organisation. Established as part of the vision of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj — a spiritual leader revered worldwide, honoured by Guinness World Records for the creation of Akshardham temple, and commemorated with a Guardian obituary on his passing — the hospital reflects a tradition where medical excellence and humanitarian service go hand in hand.

The hospital is NABH accredited, meeting the highest standards of governance, safety and quality in Indian healthcare, and operates with a team of highly experienced physicians, consultants and medical staff. Patients benefit not only from world‑class diagnostic technology and treatment facilities but also from an approach where clinical precision is matched by dignity and care.

Beyond hospital walls, BAPS Charities runs free medical clinics, international health missions and disaster relief programmes, underscoring a reputation for serving communities wherever need arises. This wider commitment to social responsibility reinforces the hospital’s standing as a healthcare provider built on both science and service.

For UK clients, collaboration with BAPS Hospital ensures that preventive health assessments are carried out in a respected, internationally accredited environment, supported by cutting‑edge facilities and a deep tradition of ethical practice. It is this combination of medical expertise, advanced diagnostics and humanitarian values that makes BAPS Hospital a trusted institution for clients seeking reassurance, accuracy and care of the highest standard.

GIC Prime Imaging Centre, also known as the Post‑Graduate Institute of Radiology & Imaging, is one of India’s leading diagnostic facilities with more than 25 years of expertise in medical imaging. Founded on the guiding principles of Excellence, Experience and Eminence, the centre has consistently set benchmarks in clinical radiology, widely recognised across the country for its standards of precision and innovation.

The institute is equipped with some of the most advanced technology available globally, including India’s first 160‑slice high‑resolution digital PET‑CT scanner and the world’s widest bore 3T MRI system. These capabilities allow for the production of exceptionally detailed images, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and enabling earlier detection of disease.

By combining state‑of‑the‑art equipment with an experienced team of radiologists and technologists, GIC Prime provides results that are both accurate and timely, making it a trusted referral centre for complex imaging needs throughout the region. Its dedication to advancing diagnostic science continues to position the institute at the forefront of medical imaging in India.

At First Health Check, arranging a full body health assessment is a seamless journey that combines rigorous preventive medicine with five‑star service and personal support throughout.

We welcome clients whether or not they have pre‑existing health conditions. Unlike many providers, we do not treat individuals as anonymous numbers, nor do we offer half‑hearted, transactional care. Every client receives the same commitment to excellence, time and attention.

Your assessment takes place in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, one of the leading destinations for medical tourism. The programme is designed to be completed in just three days, giving you a detailed, evidence‑based understanding of your health, while also offering the chance to enjoy India’s cultural richness. Each package includes five‑star hotel accommodation, private transport, guided sightseeing, and even a river cruise — allowing you to combine essential screening with a memorable travel experience.

We offer three individual preventive health assessments, ranging from comprehensive baseline evaluations through to in‑depth advanced programmes. You will not be expected to “choose blindly.” Instead, during your initial consultation call, one of our senior consultants will recommend the most appropriate option based on your profile, needs and health history. This ensures you undergo the assessment that is truly relevant to you, not a generic one‑size‑fits‑all package.

Clinically, our service stands apart. Scans are performed with world‑class imaging technologies, interpreted by internationally distinguished radiologists. Extensive blood testing and diagnostic reviews are combined with a personal consultation with a senior physician who explains every result in detail. The depth of these assessments goes well beyond what is normally available in the UK and, critically, they are delivered at a fraction of the price of equivalent private options.

Most importantly, you are supported every step of the way. From your first enquiry to your return flight, First Health Check coordinates the entire trip. A dedicated team member is with you throughout your three days in India, ensuring each appointment runs smoothly, every question is answered, and that you are never left alone or unsupported. Our guiding philosophy is to anticipate needs, cater to requests, and deliver genuine concierge‑level care where “no” is never the response.

In short, First Health Check provides preventive health assessments that are more comprehensive than those found in the UK, at a significantly lower cost, embedded in an experience that combines world‑class medicine with comfort, reassurance and cultural discovery.