Galveston Island Medical Tourism

Galveston Island is home to multiple highly regarded medical campuses, making it a prominent destination for medical tourism.

With millions of visitors annually, the island is well known for its serene shores and quality medical care. Medical tourism refers to the practice of traveling to a destination known for its healthcare infrastructure and skilled medical professionals to receive medical treatment. This can include various medical services, from elective procedures and surgeries to complex, specialized treatments.

About Galveston Medical Tourism

The island’s appeal as a medical tourism destination is further enhanced by its picturesque coastal setting. Patients and their families can enjoy the calming ambiance of Galveston’s beaches, historic sites, and cultural attractions, making the recovery process more pleasant and less stressful. This unique combination of high-quality medical care and a relaxing environment makes Galveston an ideal choice for those seeking medical treatments away from home.

Why Choose Galveston for Medical Treatment?

Galveston offers a unique blend of top-tier medical facilities and tranquil coastal beauty, making it an ideal destination for a procedural visit.

  • Premier Medical Institutions: In Galveston, visitors can access top-tier healthcare services provided by renowned institutions such as the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) and Shriners Children's Texas. UTMB, one of the oldest academic health centers in the United States, offers a wide range of medical services, including cutting-edge research and advanced patient care. Shriners Children's Texas is internationally recognized for its expertise in pediatric care, particularly in orthopedics, burn treatment, and spinal cord injury rehabilitation.
  • Proximity to Houston: Just 50 miles south of Houston, Galveston provides easy access to one of the nation's leading medical hubs. Patients receiving cancer treatment or other specialized care in Houston often choose to stay in Galveston for a peaceful respite.
  • Comprehensive Medical Services: From elective procedures and urgent care to sports medicine and specialized pediatric care, Galveston offers a wide array of medical services to meet diverse needs.

Galveston Medical Offerings

Galveston, Texas, is a hub for medical excellence, providing a wide range of services for both residents and visitors. Key facilities include the following:

Key Galveston Medical Facilities
Medical Facilities in Galveston

Founded in 1891, The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health) in Galveston is a leading academic health center dedicated to improving health through education, research, and patient care. With a rich history of medical innovation and excellence, UTMB Health offers world-class healthcare services, cutting-edge research facilities, and top-ranked educational programs.

Overlooking the Galveston beaches, the beautiful campus includes a major teaching hospital, specialized clinics, and a renowned Level I trauma center, serving both local residents and visitors. UTMB Health is committed to advancing health in the community and beyond, making it a cornerstone of the island's medical and academic landscape.

· Home to the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence, giving patients seeking surgical treatment for obesity and its related conditions a high-quality choice for receiving care. Our comprehensive treatment options include sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, and Biliopancreatic Diversion with Duodenal Switch (BPD/DS).

· At the forefront of minimally invasive cardiac and thoracic surgical techniques, provided by internationally recognized cardiovascular and thoracic surgeons, UTMB Health’s areas of expertise include coronary revascularization including off-pump surgery, valve surgery including repair (both mitral & aortic valve) and TAVR with our cardiology colleagues, aortic surgery including hybrid procedures with our vascular surgery colleagues, minimally-invasive lung & esophageal surgery including robotic procedures where appropriate, and bloodless cardiac surgery.

· Known for its highly experienced pediatric surgical team, providing a holistic and family-centered approach, making it a popular choice for families seeking pediatric surgical care. Our care and services range from routine procedures for appendicitis and hernia repairs to treatments for rare or complex conditions such as solid tumors, multiple congenital anomalies and anorectal malformations.

· Leading the way in orthopedic care, combining breakthrough clinical care with the advanced technology and rehabilitative services you need to get back to your life. Our Joint Reconstruction service emphasizes reconstructive surgery of the hip, including proximal femoral and pelvic osteotomies, arthroplasty, fixation of pelvic fractures, as well as knee reconstruction and replacement surgery.

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Medical Facilities in Galveston

Specializing in pediatric burn care, orthopedic conditions, and cleft lip and palate, attracting patients from across the region and internationally.

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Medical Facilities in Galveston

Providing accessible healthcare services and community-based education for HIV/AIDS.

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Medical Facilities in Galveston

A state-of-the-art emergency care facility offering a uniquely comfortable experience.

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Medical Facilities in Galveston

Offering premier aesthetic and cosmetic procedures.

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Medical Facilities in Galveston

Supporting families of hospitalized children.

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Comprehensive Care Packages

Galveston also offers various care packages to enhance your medical tourism experience:

  • Elective Procedures: Discover our special packages for elective procedures, designed for your convenience and comfort. [Learn more about elective procedures]
  • Aftercare Services: Tailored packages providing seamless aftercare to ensure a smooth recovery process.
  • Sports Medicine: Collaborations with UTMB to provide specialized sports medicine care.

Beyond Medical Care

For those interested in medical history and education, Galveston offers unique attractions:

Old Red Medical Museum

Located on the UTMB campus, this museum provides a fascinating glimpse into medical history. Available for tour by appointment only.

Meeting Facilities

Ideal for medical research associations and clinical groups seeking a scenic location for their next conference or meeting.

Browse Meeting Facilities


Disclaimer: The content provided on VisitGalveston.com is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. We do not endorse or recommend any specific healthcare providers, facilities, treatments, or procedures mentioned on our website. We strongly advise visitors to conduct their own research and consult with healthcare professionals before making any decisions related to medical tourism, healthcare providers, or medical procedures.