Treatments on the fly: Asia a top destination for medical tourism

When Hong Kong resident Brett Hinds chose to have an eye operation in Thailand last year, he wasn't only motivated by the cheaper cost of the surgery. The treatment, called ReLEx, was a form of laser surgery unavailable in Hong Kong at the time.

"Quality and trust in the service provider influenced my decision - cost was a factor but not the biggest one," says Hinds, who declined to give his real name.

Medical tourism is a US$100 billion industry and growing, according to the Medical Tourism Association.

Once enticed by the prospect of combining discounted health care with a holiday, medical tourists are now being lured abroad by the quality and broad range of treatments on offer, from heart surgery to joint replacements.

Leading the charge is Asia, boasting 212 Joint Commission International - the gold standard in health care - accredited hospitals. Six out of the top 10 world's best hospitals for medical tourists are based in the region, according to Medical Travel Quality Alliance.

Travelling abroad in the name of health is not new. The ancient Greeks and Egyptians flocked to hot springs, while 18th and 19th century Europeans and Americans travelled to warmer climates for health retreats.