Watching TV the other night I came across an excellent set of ‘reportages’ into the health sector. They really showed that healthcare is a business not only for companies but also for hospitals and governments, who are equally battling for market share and establishing their ‘brand’. It’s a billion dollar business with patients at the centre - and everyone is looking for their slice of the pie.
If you can spare the time check out « Le patient qui valait 3 milliard » (a play on 'the six million dollar man') and « Massage ou pontage - Le business du tourisme médical » broadcast on ARTE on the 1st September – very interesting, especially Massage ou Pontage (healthcare tourism in Thailand) which was very balanced.
They’re both available on ARTE’s website for the next 7 days at http://plus7.arte.tv/fr/1697480.html
Also available in German here http://plus7.arte.tv/de/1697480.html although the titles are different “Patient als Beute” which translates as “Patient as booty” which in American English means “the patient as a nice bottom” and “Mein Bypass aus Bangkok” which is not nearly as ‘saucy’ as the French title.
John Brennan
Director Regulatory and Technical Affairs