Apparently the medical care in SE Asia is better--an obviously cheaper--than many people expect. I've been in the Philippines the past 6 months and I contracted a serious respiratory infection. I was quite concerned about having to deal with medical personnel over here, but I was referred to a medical facility that caters to many foreigners. What I received was a thorough exam, a chest x ray, four perscription meds for less than $100US. Now I'm not saying I received better care than I would have if i were in the US, but it was comparable and fractions of the cost.
The US version of medical care is whacked due to many factors, not the least of which is the powerful insurance and medical lobbying groups such as the AMA which pander to almighty Bush who could give a rats ass about affordable medical care in the country in which I was born and raised.
So I think I'll hang in Manila a little longer. Besides, there are a lot of local attractions here.
