Getting Trampled by the Bulls: Cheaper Than a US Hip Replacement

Online, March 24, 2014 (Newswire.com) - After some research on hip replacement surgery prices in the U.S, I came to the realization that getting trampled by the bulls in Spain is a cheaper alternative than getting a hip replacement in the US.

Ok, here is how I figured it out: (Some math ahead! You have been warned.)

Cost of hip replacement in the US = unknown.

What do you mean "unknown?" Won't hospitals give you a cost?

Hard to believe…but true. Only 10% of hospitals in the U.S will give you a complete price for a hip replacement before you get one. The rest reserve the right to tack on extras like $200 painkillers. (I've heard that smiling is not included in the price, but I can't confirm this.) Independent studies show that hip replacement prices can range from $30,000 to $125,000, depending on the location, the color scheme of the hospital, and the perceived thickness of your wallet. Ok, let's say that the average is about $60,000 US.

Cost of hip replacement in Spain = $8,000 (I rounded up from an actual price of $7,300.)

Cost of round-trip flight from New York City to Madrid = $1,350.

Now, despite what you may think, the running of the bulls doesn't happen in Madrid. It happens in Pamplona. So, you have to add the cost of a flight from Madrid to Pamplona in July when the running of the bulls takes place. (And yes, I used July, 2014 to get the ticket prices. That's how nerdy I am.)

Cost of round trip flight from Madrid to Pamplona = $400

Cost of 8 nights (for the full Festival of Sanfermines experience) in the best suite in Pamplona's best 5-star hotel (including the most expensive breakfast) = $23,000

So, I can fly to Madrid, have a hip replacement, fly to Pamplona, stay 8 nights in the best room in the best hotel, eat like a king, run with the bulls, get trampled, fly back to Madrid, have another hip replacement to replace my broken hip replacement, and fly back to the States for $41,000 US.

And that would still be cheaper than the $60,000 price I'd have to pay at home for one hip replacement.

Or, I could just fly to Spain, Mexico, Costa Rica, Colombia or any one of 50 really cool vacation destinations with great healthcare and get my hip replacement surgery, physical therapy and a couple weeks of enjoyable relaxing vacation time for a fraction of the price for the same hip replacement surgery at home.

Patrick Goodness, CEO: The Goodness Company: Global Healthcare Marketing

Patrick Goodness: Bio
Patrick Goodness is one of the most recognized names in the global healthcare and medical marketing industry. Healthcare organizations from around the world rely on Patrick for insightful marketing consultation, marketing planning and international public relations services. Patrick's results-driven approach to marketing has helped hospitals, medical centers, medical practices, dental offices and medical organizations around the world transform their brand and dramatically increase sales and profitability.

Experience
As CEO of The Goodness Company, Global Healthcare & Medical Tourism Marketing, Patrick has earned the confidence and repeat business of some of the worlds' top healthcare organizations. Patrick offers a wide spectrum of marketing and public relations consulting services focused on building powerful branding and dramatically increasing sales. Patrick's extensive healthcare marketing experience, his global network of clients and colleagues, and his ability to build and deliver valuable marketing concepts and tools that generate significant results are the reason for his popularity and his leadership in global healthcare marketing.

Patrick is recognized globally for his work in the following areas:
• Healthcare Marketing
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• Medical & Dental Practice Branding
• Medical Tourism Marketing
• International Healthcare Public Relations
• Social Media Marketing
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