Global Medicine Program

Financial and Insurance Services for International Patients

TGH’s Global Medicine Program provides international patients with expert financial counseling services to ensure full transparency and clarity around the cost of care. Our experienced team specializes in international billing and can assist with insurance verifications, secure necessary pre-authorizations and help navigate complex payment processes. For patients without insurance, we offer clear, all-inclusive pricing estimates up front. Our individualized financial and insurance services are designed to empower patients to make informed decisions, avoid unexpected expenses and reduce financial uncertainty throughout the treatment process.

Travel Arrangements for Destination Health Care

Visa and Customs

Overseas residents who are planning to receive medical care at TGH must meet certain travel and documentation requirements to enter the United States. Most foreign nationals will need to apply for a B-2 (tourist) visa, which permits travel for medical purposes. For the most accurate and up-to-date information about eligibility, application procedures and estimated processing times, patients should contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country or visit the U.S. Department of State website. It is essential to begin the visa application process well in advance to avoid delays.

Key travel requirements for non-U.S. residents seeking medical treatment in the United States include:

 
• A valid passport that extends at least six months beyond the intended stay
 
• Medical documentation detailing the diagnosis and planned care
 
• Proof of financial resources to cover the cost of the medical treatment and related travel
 
• Evidence of ties to the home country to demonstrate an intent to return

Upon arrival in the United States, all international travelers must pass through U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It is important to have all relevant identification and supporting medical documentation easily accessible for review.

TGH’s Global Medicine Program provides personalized support to help international patients access advanced care that may not be available in their home country. Our team can assist with compiling the necessary visa-related documentation and offer guidance throughout the travel-planning process to ensure a seamless and well-coordinated journey.

Airports

For patients coming to Florida from Latin America, the Caribbean and other global regions, TGH is conveniently accessible through multiple international and regional airports. The Tampa Bay area is well-connected by direct flights from many worldwide destinations, helping to reduce travel time and simplify logistics for patients and their families. Tampa International Airport (TPA) and St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) are served by most major commercial airlines, while Peter O. Knight Airport, Tampa Executive Airport and Plant City Airport accommodate private and chartered flights. This high level of connectivity enables international patients to focus on their health and recovery without having to worry about navigating complicated travel arrangements.

Hotels and Accommodations

For overseas residents traveling to the United States for destination health care services, TGH’s Global Medicine team can assist with arranging convenient and comfortable lodging. We have established preferred rates with a variety of hotels and extended-stay accommodations throughout the Tampa Bay area, all located near our campus. Whether you require short- or long-term accommodations, your dedicated nurse navigator at TGH can help you select the most appropriate lodging. This personalized assistance can help ease travel-related burdens and ensure a comfortable, well-supported experience for you and your loved ones during your time in Tampa.

Ground Transportation

For international patients seeking care at TGH, our Global Medicine team can help coordinate ground transportation services designed to simplify your stay in Tampa Bay. We can assist with arranging transfers from Tampa International Airport (TPA), St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) and nearby regional airports directly to your accommodations or the TGH campus. We can also help with coordinating daily transportation between your hotel and our facilities for appointments, consultations and procedures.

For enhanced flexibility, we can assist with securing discounted car rentals and facilitate access to wheelchair-accessible or private transportation if needed. Additionally, we can provide guidance on using local ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, to help you navigate the Tampa Bay area with greater ease. By assisting with these logistical details, our Global Medicine team will allow you to focus more fully on your health and recovery.

What to Bring: A Guide for International Patients Traveling to TGH

To help ensure a smooth and efficient destination health care experience, international patients traveling to Florida for medical care at TGH should bring the following essential documents and personal items. Being well-prepared can support both your treatment and overall comfort during your stay.

Essential documents and information include:

 
• Personal identification – To verify your identity, you will need a valid government-issued ID that includes your legal name and date of birth, such as an unexpired passport or national ID card.
 
• Contact information – In addition to your personal contact details, you will need to provide the information necessary to reach at least two emergency contacts, one in the U.S. and one in your home country. Include each contact’s full name, telephone number, email address and physical or mailing address.
 
• Health care-related legal documents – Bring copies of your health care proxy, living will, power of attorney and designation of health care surrogate (HCS), if applicable.
 
• Health insurance information – Carry your health insurance card or information about your coverage, including the insurer’s name and contact information and the group and policy numbers.
 
• Medical records – Gather copies of your recent medical records from providers in both your home country and the U.S., including treatment summaries, lab results, pathology reports and contact details for your physicians.
 
• Radiology and imaging reports – Bring discs of any recent imaging, including computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, X-rays, ultrasounds and nuclear medicine tests.
 
• Medical device information – If you have a surgically implanted medical device, such as a pacemaker, insulin pump or orthopedic hardware, bring documentation identifying the device and contact information for the physician who placed it.
 
• Medication list – Prepare a list of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter remedies, vitamins and supplements you currently take. For each medication, include the drug name, dosage, frequency and prescribing physician. Bring a supply of any essential medications or medical supplies that might not be readily available in the U.S.

Recommended personal items include:

 
• Comfortable footwear – Non-slip shoes or slippers are ideal for safety and comfort.
 
• Personal sleepwear – Although TGH provides hospital gowns, many patients prefer to wear their own pajamas, nightgown or loungewear, along with a comfy robe.
 
• Basic toiletries – Pack everyday items, such as your toothbrush, toothpaste, body wash, shaving kit, shampoo, conditioner, hairbrush, deodorant, body lotion, lip balm, skincare items, makeup and anything else you need to stay comfortable and feel your best.
 
• Storage containers – Bring cases for your eyeglasses, contact lenses, hearing aids and dentures, if applicable.
 
• Entertainment and leisure items – Books, magazines, puzzles, journals, headphones and a mobile device with a charger can help you relax during your downtime.

If you have any questions or need assistance compiling your documents or packing for your trip, your dedicated TGH nurse navigator will be happy to support you every step of the way.

Contact Us to Learn More

As one of the top-rated hospitals in the United States, TGH delivers world-class care backed by academic medicine, outstanding clinical outcomes and comprehensive support services. Our unwavering commitment to excellence distinguishes us as a destination academic health system in Florida, and we are proud to welcome patients from around the world to experience our personalized health care services.

To learn more about TGH’s Global Medicine Program, please contact us by telephone at (866) 839-9828 or via email at tghglobalmedicine@tgh.org. Our team is available 24/7 to assist you.