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Author: Sheri Burke

The 7 Biggest Fears Patients Have About Medical Tourism (and How to Overcome Them Immediately)
25Nov

Medical tourism—especially for bariatric surgery—can feel overwhelming. These are the seven concerns I hear day after day… and the real solutions no one talks about.

1. “Is it safe to have surgery abroad?”

Yes—when your hospital is nationally certified and your surgeon is vetted.

This is where my work becomes essential. I personally audit, certify, and partner only with hospitals that meet strict national standards:

  • Accredited bariatric programs
  • Proven surgical outcomes
  • Transparent complication rates
  •  Highly trained surgical teams
  • Infection-control excellence
  • Modern pre and post-operative protocols

In 2025, I expanded certifications to Turkey and Thailand, two countries now leading the world in hospital innovation and surgical technology.

👉 You never walk into a hospital I haven’t personally inspected.
2. “What if something goes wrong and I’m far from home?”

A valid worry. Here’s the truth:

Your postoperative safety depends more on planning than geography.

With a certified medical-tourism facilitator, you receive:

  • Ongoing assistance
  • Patient advocates
  • Post-op support
  • Clear pathways
  • Optional telemedicine follow-ups
  • Seamless return-to-home plans

Your health is never left to chance.

3. “How do I choose the right surgeon?”

You don’t need to guess.

I match you with surgeons based on:

  • Your BMI
  • Your medical history
  • Your lifestyle
  • Your surgery goals
  • Required postoperative supportThis matching process is why our patients report higher satisfaction and lower complication rates.
    4. “Will I recover comfortably abroad?”

Absolutely—if the destination is chosen carefully.
🇹🇷 Why Turkey Is a 2025 Hotspot for Bariatric Surgery

  • Luxury private hospitals
  • Exceptional nursing ratios
  • Bilingual medical teams
  • All-inclusive recovery packages
  • High surgical volumes = high expertise
    🇹🇭 Why Thailand Continues to Be the Gold Standard
  • World-renowned medical hospitality
  • Highly skilled bariatric programs
  • Top-tier aftercare in a beautiful settings
  • Smooth travel experience for international patients
    5. “Is it really more affordable?”

Yes—and transparently so.

When done right, your cost includes:

  • Surgeon fees
  • Hospital stay
  • Pre-op testing
  • Post-op medication
  • Ground transportation
  • International patient support

No hidden fees. No surprise bills.
6. “What if I choose the wrong company?”

Here’s how you protect yourself:

✔️ Look for long-standing experience
 ✔️ Ask for hospital national accreditation
 ✔️ Confirm surgeon credentials
 ✔️ Check real patient reviews
 ✔️ Avoid companies that outsource everything
 ✔️ Work only with patient facilitators who inspect hospitals personally

This is exactly why International Patient Facilitators has become a trusted name for over a decade.

👉 Learn more: https://international-patient-facilitators.com/

7. “Will I have support once I get home?”

This is the most important question—and the reason many companies fail.

With our team, you get:

  • Nutrition coaching
  • Support groups
  • Continual follow-ups
  • Customized recovery plans
  • Lifelong bariatric guidance

Your journey doesn’t end with surgery. It begins there.
🌟 The Future of Safe, High-Quality Medical Tourism Starts Here

In 2025, I launched a new global initiative to certify hospitals around the world, focusing on:

  • Mexico
  • Turkey
  • Thailand
  • Caribbean countries
  • Emerging European hubsThis means more choice, more access, more safety, and more personalized experiences.

Every new destination is evaluated on:

  • Surgical outcomes
  • Patient experience
  • Medical ethics
  • Sanitation & technology
  • Aftercare quality
    Only the best make the list.
    🏥 Thinking About Bariatric Surgery Abroad? Let’s Talk.

Whether you’re considering:

  • Gastric Sleeve
  • Gastric Bypass
  • Mini Bypass
  • Revision Surgery

…your safety, comfort, and success are my priority.

If you want world-class care with human connection, transparency, and a partner you can trust every step…

👉 Start your journey here:
 https://international-patient-facilitators.com/

💬 Final Words From Sheri

Your health transformation is not a dream—it’s a decision.
 But you should never take that journey alone.

Let me guide you safely, confidently, and compassionately.

You’re ready.
 And I’m here for you.

— Sheri Burke
 Medical Tourism Specialist • Bariatric Patient Advocate • Founder, International Patient Facilitators

Sheri Burke, RHN
International Patient Facilitators
📍 Currently in Bangkok
WhatsApp: Canada 1 819 230 9763
Email: s.burke@ipf-mail.com

11Nov

🏥 2025 Price Check: What Patients Actually Pay in Mexico

Author: Sheri Burke  |  Nutritionist & Medical Tourism Concierge

Publisher: International Patient Facilitators (IPF)

Medical travel to Mexico keeps rising in 2025 thanks to faster access, stronger safety standards,
and predictable pricing. Below are realistic, line-by-line ranges from IPF’s vetted partner clinics, based on
15+ years of case data—so you can budget with confidence.

Get a Surgeon-Reviewed Quote

Download the Clinic Vetting Scorecard (Free)

💰 Average 2025 Procedure Costs (USD)

Procedure Typical US/CA Price Average Mexico Price (IPF Network) Typical Savings
Dental Implant (single) $3,000 – $4,500 $950 – $1,300 per tooth ≈ 65%
Full Arch (All-on-4/6) $22,000 – $28,000 $9,500 – $13,500 ≈ 55%
Bariatric Sleeve Gastrectomy $18,000 – $24,000 $4,500 – $6,200 ≈ 70%
Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y) $22,000 – $30,000 $6,500 – $8,000 ≈ 68%
Knee Replacement (Total) $42,000 – $55,000 $13,500 – $17,000 ≈ 65%
Hip Replacement (Total) $40,000 – $52,000 $13,000 – $16,000 ≈ 65%
IPF quotes include surgeon fees, anesthesia, hospital stay, and standard post-op visits. Airfare and lodging are separate.

✈️ Hidden Costs Most Patients Forget

Even with substantial savings, plan for the full journey:

Category Typical Range Notes
Flights $350 – $750 RT Varies by season & city (Mexico City, Cancún, Tijuana, etc.)
Hotel / Recovery House $60 – $150 per night IPF-approved housing ≈ $100 avg; often includes meals
Meds & Supplements $80 – $200 Depends on procedure & Sheri’s protocol bundle
Lab Work / Imaging $100 – $250 Pre-op blood panel & ECG frequently done locally
Follow-Up Teleconsults Included (90 days) IPF handles scheduling & secure records sharing

🧩 How IPF Builds Transparent Quotes

  1. Patient Profile → Records Review — no one-size-fits-all packages.
  2. Surgeon Validation → Fixed Line-Item Quote — every charge documented.
  3. Nutrition & Recovery Plan — included from Sheri Burke.
  4. Aftercare Support — 30–90 days of structured virtual check-ins.

Get My Personalized Cost Breakdown

🥗 Sheri Burke’s Pro Tip: Budget for Nutrition

“Patients focus on flights and hotel—but your nutrition recovery kit (protein, hydration, micronutrients) is the cheapest
insurance you’ll buy.”

Pre- and post-op planning accelerates healing and reduces complications. Every IPF bariatric and orthopedic case includes
a customized meal guide and supplement checklist from Sheri.

Ask Sheri about your recovery plan

📅 Realistic Timeline for Planning

Step Estimated Time
Initial Consult → Surgeon Match 3–5 days
Records Review + Quote Approval 5–7 days
Pre-Op Labs & Flight Booking 1–2 weeks
Procedure & Recovery in Mexico 7–14 days (varies by surgery)
Virtual Follow-Ups 30–90 days post-op

🧾 What to Ask Before You Book

  • Is the clinic accredited nationally or internationally?
  • What are the surgeon’s case volumes & success rates for my procedure?
  • Which implants/materials are used (brand + warranty)?
  • How is aftercare handled once I fly home?
  • Can I talk with Sheri Burke before traveling for nutrition & coverage pairing?

📞 Next Steps

Phone: +1 (208) 258-90111
WhatsApp: +1(819)230-9763
Email: s.burke@ipf-mail.com

→ Plan My Trip Now (Free 15-Minute Consult)

Disclaimer: This article is educational and not medical or insurance advice. Consult qualified professionals for personal recommendations.



5Nov

The new year is approaching — and with it comes that beautiful, powerful energy of fresh starts, self-investment, and personal evolution. If you’ve been thinking about cosmetic surgery as part of your transformation journey, I’ve created a special opportunity for you to take the leap with guidance, support, and sisterhood

For years, I’ve helped clients travel for medical and cosmetic procedures safely, affordably, and confidently. Now, I’m excited to host small, curated cosmetic surgery groups — where we travel together, support each other, heal together, and return home feeling renewed, empowered, and glowing from the inside out.

Because you deserve care.
You deserve confidence.
And you don’t need to walk this journey alone

 Why a Cosmetic Surgery Group?

Sure, you could go alone — but this curated group experience gives you so much more:

 Emotional support
Shared excitement (and nerves!)
Someone to hold your hand on the journey
A “we’re in this together” vibe
Extra motivation and accountability
Better rates and priority bookings
Seamless logistics — handled for you

My role?
To be your guide, coordinator, advocate, and “travel mom”

You’ll have concierge-level support, access to hand-selected surgeons and clinics, safe accommodations, and all the little details handled so you can focus on YOU.

No stress.
No confusion.
Just clarity, confidence, and care.

 Choose Your Travel Group & Dates

Pick the date that aligns with your goals and your schedule:

 Option A

January 12 – January 26
Start the year strong — new energy, new goals, new YOU.

 Option B

February 9 – February 23
Perfect if you like to ease into the new year and want time to plan.

 Option C

March 9 – March 23
A beautiful end-of-winter confidence boost to step into spring feeling incredible.

Drop your preferred choice in the comments — or send it to me privately if you prefer a little more privacy

 What’s Included in the Group Experience

When you travel with me, you receive:

 Pre-trip preparation and education
Surgeon selection support
All logistics — transportation, appointments, planning
Post-op guidance and recovery support
Safe accommodation coordination
Emotional support before, during, and after
Daily check-ins while you recover
A new circle of supportive friends

This isn’t tourism — it’s guided transformation with safety, ethics, and emotional wellbeing at the core.

My goal is to give you the best possible outcome with trusted surgeons, fair pricing, and the peace of mind that comes from having a professional and a community by your side.

 You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Making a change to your body is emotional — even when it’s exciting.
It’s okay to want reassurance.
It’s okay to want support.
It’s okay to want someone who gets the process and knows what to expect.

Whether you’ve always dreamed of this or you’ve simply reached the point where you’re ready to invest in yourself… know this:

 You’re allowed to want to feel beautiful.
You’re allowed to step into your next version.
You’re allowed to put yourself first.

And this group gives you a soft landing, a clear plan, and a sisterhood to hold you through it.

 Ready to Join the Transformation?

Comment A, B, or C with your preferred dates — or message me privately to reserve your spot and receive more info

Let’s make 2026 your year of confidence, courage, and beautiful personal evolution.

A new year.
A new chapter.
A new you.

I can’t wait to support you on this journey
— Sheri

1Oct

If you’ve been following me for a while, you know I wear a few hats — but they all come from the same heart. Whether I’m helping someone board a plane for bariatric surgery in Tijuana, answering panicked calls from expats in Mexico who suddenly need an MRI, or reminding post-op patients to please take their vitamins, my work is built on one thing: caring for people who need guidance, clarity, and peace of mind in a health system that feels foreign and overwhelming.

I like to call it the Sheri Approach. And it applies to two communities I love deeply: medical travelers through International Patient Facilitators (IPF) and expats through Mexico Medical Members (MMM).

Let’s unpack what that means — and why it matters for you.

Compassion. Clarity. Care.

I built both IPF and MMM around these three words. They aren’t just a tagline — they’re how I work with every single person who reaches out to me.

  • Compassion → Because if you’re contacting me, chances are you’re worried. Worried about your weight, your health, your aging parent, or that little “what if” voice that keeps you up at night. You need someone who listens first, and talks second.
  • Clarity → Because the Mexican healthcare system is incredible… but it’s not always easy to navigate. Which hospital? Which surgeon? How much should it cost? Am I getting ripped off? Is this legit? These are real questions, and I believe in straight answers.
  • Care → Because at the end of the day, this isn’t about booking a surgery or selling a membership. It’s about real people and real outcomes. I want you healthy, safe, and supported. Always.

For the Medical Traveler: IPF

Through International Patient Facilitators (IPF), I’ve been helping people access safe, affordable bariatric surgery and other procedures in Mexico since 2007. Thousands of patients later, I can tell you that medical tourism isn’t just about saving money — it’s about finding the right surgeon, the right facility, and the right aftercare.

The Sheri Approach here means:

  • Matching patients with surgeons I’ve personally vetted.
  • Making sure you understand exactly what to expect before you step on the plane.
  • Standing by your side (literally) when you arrive in Mexico, so you never feel alone.

I know firsthand how scary surgery can feel — and how confusing cross-border medicine is. That’s why IPF patients don’t just get logistics. They get a human connection and a guide who’s done this countless times before.

For the Expat: MMM

Now let’s talk about Mexico Medical Members (MMM).

If IPF is about coming to Mexico for care, MMM is about living in Mexico with peace of mind. Expat life is beautiful — sunshine, tacos, adventure — but let’s be honest: it also comes with the nagging question, “What if something happens?”

That’s where MMM steps in.

With a membership card in your pocket, you’re not Googling “nearest hospital” at midnight in Spanish. You’re calling me. And I’m connecting you to trusted doctors, arranging imaging, walking you through insurance forms, and making sure you get the right care without the runaround.

Think of it like this: IPF helps people become patients in Mexico. MMM helps expats stay healthy in Mexico. And both are built on the same Sheri Approach.

The Overlap: People, Not Labels

What I’ve noticed over the years is how often these worlds overlap.

  • A woman who came through IPF for bariatric surgery is now living happily in San Miguel de Allende… and she’s an MMM member for her day-to-day health needs.
  • An expat who joined MMM for “what if” coverage later asked me about her husband’s hernia repair options… and IPF helped them navigate the surgery.

Life doesn’t fit neatly into categories, and neither do people. That’s why my work bridges both spaces.

And Let’s Not Forget Nutrition

You know I couldn’t write a blog without talking about nutrition, right?

Whether you’re a bariatric patient or an expat looking to thrive in Mexico, nutrition is the foundation of your health. That’s why I started Bariatric Food Expert — to give my community access to supplements designed for your unique needs.

For my bariatric patients: vitamins are not optional. They’re as essential as the surgery itself. And for my expats: a strong nutrition game means fewer doctor visits and more energy to enjoy the Mexico life you dreamed of.

I like to think of Bariatric Food Expert as the third pillar of my work. Surgery. Membership. Nutrition. It’s all connected.

Why the Sheri Approach Matters

At the end of the day, it’s not about fancy words or clever branding. It’s about trust.

  • Trust that your surgeon is who they say they are.
  • Trust that when something happens in Mexico, you’re not on your own.
  • Trust that the advice you’re getting comes from someone who’s been here, done this, and still answers the phone herself.

That’s what I mean by the Sheri Approach.

So whether you’re packing your suitcase for bariatric surgery, sipping margaritas in your new condo in Playa del Carmen, or shopping online for your next bottle of chewable multivitamins — know this: I’m here, my team is here, and you don’t have to figure this out alone.

Final Thoughts

Medical tourism and expat life in Mexico are exciting, rewarding, and sometimes overwhelming. But with the right support, you can experience the best of what Mexico offers without the stress of the unknown.

If you’re curious about surgery, visit International Patient Facilitators.
If you’re an expat ready for peace of mind, check out Mexico Medical Members.
And if you want to keep your health strong with the right supplements, visit Bariatric Food Expert.

This is the Sheri Approach: Compassion. Clarity. Care.
For patients. For expats. For you.

Healthy Hugs,

Sheri Burke – RHN and surgery coordinator/ medical facilitator

1 208 258 9011

s.burke@ipf-mail.com

20Sep

My Vitamins Taste Better Than Yours

Let’s talk about something we all know but don’t always admit: if your vitamins taste gross, you’re probably not going to take them. And if you don’t take them, they don’t work. Simple, right?

So why are so many bariatric patients forcing themselves to swallow giant chalky pills that they hate? Friends, I’m here to save you from the daily vitamin struggle — because I promise, my vitamins taste better than yours.

The Bariatric Vitamin Dilemma

If you’ve had bariatric surgery (or you’re getting ready for it), you already know vitamins are non-negotiable. Surgery changes the way your body processes food and nutrients. That means you need daily support to prevent deficiencies.

The problem? After surgery, your digestion is different. Your stomach is smaller. Your tolerance for big pills is almost non-existent. And yet, so many patients are told, “Just take this giant multivitamin twice a day.”

Newsflash: no one enjoys gagging on horse-sized pills when they’ve just had stomach surgery.

Why Taste (and Chewing) Matter

Here’s the science bit (you know I can’t resist): digestion doesn’t start in your stomach — it starts in your mouth.

When you chew, you’re not just breaking food down mechanically. Your saliva is packed with enzymes that kick off the digestion process. Chewing literally tells your body, “Hey, nutrients are coming!” and prepares your whole digestive system to absorb them better.

So when you chew a vitamin — or take one in a form you actually enjoy, like a gummy — you’re helping your body:

  • Start digestion earlier
  • Assimilate nutrients more effectively
  • Absorb what you need without stress

And for bariatric patients, who already face unique digestive challenges, this step is gold.

Enter: Bariatric Expert Gummies

This is why I recommend my Bariatric Expert line of vitamins — especially our delicious gummies.

They’re:

  • Easy to chew (no scary pills)
  • Great tasting (seriously, you’ll want more)
  • Formulated for bariatric patients (we’re not just slapping “gummy” on a regular vitamin — these are designed for YOU)

No more “ugh, I forgot my vitamin” excuses. You’ll actually look forward to taking them.

 Check them out here: www.bariatricfoodexpert.com (links directly to Amazon for easy ordering).

Or shop directly on Amazon: Bariatric Expert Gummies.

Compliance is Everything

Here’s the thing: the best vitamin in the world is useless if it sits in your cupboard. Post-surgery, your long-term health and success depend on consistency.

If your vitamins are tasty, fun, and easy to take — guess what? You’ll actually take them. And when you take them every day, you stay nourished, energized, and on track with your bariatric journey.

This isn’t just about compliance. It’s about making life after surgery a little bit easier, and dare I say… enjoyable.

The Sheri Truth Bomb

I’ve been working with bariatric patients for years. I’ve seen the frustration. I’ve seen the excuses. And I’ve also seen the transformation when people switch to a product they like.

When vitamins stop being a chore and start being something you look forward to, everything changes. You feel better. You stay consistent. You get results.

So go ahead — ditch the giant pills. Give yourself permission to enjoy your vitamins. Because yes, they can (and should) taste amazing.

Final Word: Taste Your Health

Taking your vitamins isn’t about punishment. It’s about giving your body what it needs to thrive. And when they taste this good, you’ll never forget them again.

So next time someone complains about their chalky multivitamin, smile and tell them:

“My vitamins taste better than yours.”

 Get yours today: www.bariatricfoodexpert.com

Healthy Hugs,

Sheri Burke RHN and surgery coordinator

1 208 258 9011

13Sep

Your Mexico Expat Plan: From “What If?” to “I’m Covered”

Let’s be honest: we didn’t move to Mexico to memorize hospital maps. We came for sunshine, freedom, and a simpler life. But real life still happens. I’m Sheri, and through Mexico Medical Members (MMM) and International Patient Facilitators (IPF) I help expats turn that nagging “What if something happens?” into a calm, confident “I’ve got this.”You don’t need a binder full of jargon—you need a simple, usable plan you can lean on at 2 a.m. That’s exactly what we’ve built: clear steps, real people, and friendly expat insurance options that fit life here.

Accidents Happen (Even on the Best Days)

No one wakes up planning to sprain an ankle on cobblestones or meet their appendix on a Tuesday. But life doesn’t ask for permission. A fall. A sudden infection. A fender-bender. A child’s fever that turns into something more. When you’re outside the system you grew up with—and navigating a new language—minutes feel longer and choices feel heavier.

A plan changes everything. It turns panic into steps:

Who to call.

Where to go.

How to pay—without stress.

What MMM + IPF Bring to the Table

Think of MMM as your medical concierge: we show you where to go, who to see, and how to move quickly through the system. We advocate for you, translate when needed, and help you understand your options.

Think of IPF as your surgery and specialty-care coordinator: if you need deeper care—pre-op to post-op—we make it seamless with vetted teams, nutrition guidance, and aftercare support.

Together, MMM + IPF give you the human side of healthcare in Mexico. And because the financial side matters too, we connect you with expat insurance that actually fits life here.

👉 Ready to explore coverage? Register here:
https://mexicomedicalmembers.com.mx/expat-insurance/

Why We Recommend Regency Expat Insurance (in plain English)

We’ve had great experiences referring expats to Regency Expat Insurance because it feels exactly right for our community: clear, flexible, and built for real life abroad. Think:

“Coverage without the confusion.”

“Plans for expats, not just tourists.”

“Pay for what you need, not what you don’t.”

“Simple onboarding, fast support.”

“Peace of mind you can actually use.”

Those aren’t corporate slogans; that’s how it feels when you’re the person in the clinic needing a straight answer right now. We’ll help you compare options and choose what fits your situation—no scare tactics, no pressure. Just clarity.

So… Do I Really Need Insurance and a Concierge?

Short version: ideally, yes. Here’s why.

Insurance keeps a bad day from becoming a bad year. When the unexpected bill arrives, it’s not a financial earthquake.

Concierge turns a maze into a map. We handle the logistics—the “who/where/when”—and the paperwork that usually wears you out.

Some people start with one and add the other later. That’s okay. The point is to start. Even basic emergency coverage plus an MMM plan can be the difference between “I’m overwhelmed” and “I know exactly what to do.”

👉 Take the first step here: https://mexicomedicalmembers.com.mx/expat-insurance/

Real Situations We See (and Solve)

The midnight “uh-oh.” You’re in pain and Google isn’t helping. You already have your plan in place. We’ve discussed the right facility (not every ER is equal), and—if you have insurance—make sure you understand what’s covered before you sign anything.

The “I need a specialist.” We line up the appointment, prep your questions in plain English, and make sure follow-ups don’t fall through the cracks.

The “I’m fine, but I want a plan.” Perfect. We build your personal emergency roadmap: preferred hospitals near you, quick contacts, insurance details, meds list, and a who-to-call script. It’s calm-in-a-file.

Common Questions (You Might Be Thinking These)

Will I be forced into an expensive plan?
No. We’re big on right-sized coverage. You’ll see options; you choose.

Can I get help even if I don’t have insurance yet?
Yes. MMM is your human support now, and we’ll help you set up coverage for the next time.

What if I live outside a major city in Mexico?
We work nationwide. We’ll map the best local options and create a plan that fits your area.

Do you handle renewals and questions later?
Absolutely. From sign-up to renewal reminders and the “Is this covered?” messages—we’re your team.

The “Sheri Plan” (a 20-Minute Starter)

Register for expat insurance options so we can match you with a plan that fits:
https://mexicomedicalmembers.com.mx/expat-insurance/

Join MMM (if you haven’t already) so you have real people to call when something happens.

Save our contact in your phone and send me a message that says “PLAN.” We’ll set up your personal emergency roadmap—fast.

I want you to love your life in Mexico without that low-level worry humming in the background. You don’t have to carry that. Put a simple, realistic plan in place—concierge, insurance, or both—and get back to sunsets, friends, and tacos.

If you’re reading this and thinking, “I know I should do this,” that’s your sign. Start here, and I’ll help you the whole way:
https://mexicomedicalmembers.com.mx/expat-insurance/

—Sheri
Mexico Medical Members (MMM) & International Patient Facilitators (IPF) 

1 208 258 9011 or 1 819 230 9763 info@mexicomedicalmembers.com