Two types of medical spas currently exist: wellness centers and cosmetic treatment centers. In addition, some medical spas offer both types of services. It's important to determine what type of service will suit your needs before checking into a medical spa. Also, find out what services are covered by medical insurance and what medical agencies the spa is certified with.
Traditionally, particularly in Europe, a spa retreat has been considered an annual event intended to help patients achieve their wellness goals. While weight loss can be a side effect, the focus of medical spas has traditionally been a reliance on natural minerals that aid in healing. Therefore, integrationist physicians and other practitioners who rely on the wisdom of both alternative and conventional medicine frequently prescribe medical spa retreats and treatments for their patients. A visit to a wellness center has long been cosidered a form of revitalization and health renewal.
However, today, a number of medical spas have opened that focus on cosmetic procedures performed under the direction of a physician. These spas are likely to perform Botox and Restylane injections, plastic surgery, sclerotherapy (vein removal), microdermabrasion, liposuction, and related procedures. And while both types of medical spa offer benefits, knowing what to expect from your chosen medical spa is essential.
Medical Coverage
From 1948 when the National Health Service was founded in England, until 1970, when the Bath Spa in Bath, England temporarily closed, the National Health Service paid for most services provided at the Bath Spa. When the new Bath Spa opened in 2003 lottery proceeds paid for its renovation. Today, the Bath Spa serves as a wellness center complete with physician’s offices.
Rheumatologists and other physicians in the United States occasionally prescribe hydrotherapy or massage for their patients with arthritis or other connective tissue disorders. Some insurance companies will cover a specific number of specific spa treatments depending on the patient’s medical diagnosis.
Medical Spa Conventions
This fall, the Spa & Resort/Medical Spa Conferences and Expos will be held from September 20-22 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center New York, New York. This conference is one of the premier U.S. events that reflect and support the convergence of the Traditional and Medical segments of the Spa & Resort Industry. From cutting edge medical techniques to the newest spa services, conference attendees can experience the industry's most diverse array of products, services, and learn about the underlying medical basis for spa therapies. This year’s conference also includes a new world-class educational program endorsed and sponsored by the Medical Spa Society.
Finding a Medical Spa
The Medical Spa Society has a list of recommended medical spas. In addition, readers of the Conde Nast Traveler Magazine annually vote for and recognize the top medical and thermal spas worldwide. In 2005, Switzerland’s Clinique La Prairie Spa boasted the top scores for facilities and treatments, and Iceland’s Blue Lagoon ranked number one for thermal spas.
In 2007, SpaFinder published its list of the top medical spas:
- Chopra Center, The, CA
- Duke University Diet & Fitness Center, NC
- Greenbrier, The, WV
- Kurotel Longevity Center and Spa, Brazil
In 2007, the Professional Choice Award from American Spas went to the Blue Water Spa in Raleigh, NC. The Blue Water Spa was also chosen as the best day spa in Raleigh and one of the best medical spas in the United States.
Medical Conditions That Can be Helped with Spas
Thermal waters, mineral salts, and mineral-rich mud treatments are known to benefit certain conditions. Medical conditions that benefit from medical spa treatments include:
- Rheumatism, arthritis, and other connective tissue disorders
- Skin conditions including psoriasis
- Urinary, kidney and respiratory problems
- Digestive disorders
- Diabetes
- Allergies
- Muscle and circulation problems
- Seasonal affective disorder
Resource:
- Treatment Abroad, Medical Spas, accessed July 10, 2008.
