Advances in ambulatory care services have revolutionized healthcare delivery by expanding access to high-quality care in outpatient settings. Innovations such as telemedicine, same-day diagnostic services, and minimally invasive surgical techniques enable patients to receive adequate treatment without prolonged hospital stays. Caguas ASC has emerged as a leader in ambulatory healthcare, offering cutting-edge healthcare solutions for day surgeries across multiple specialities.
Recently awarded Gold Membership of the Medical Tourism Association, Caguas ASC shares insights into its unique offerings and the future of ambulatory care in the global medical tourism space.
What do you do and how has your experience in the healthcare industry been?
Caguas Ambulatory Surgical Center (Caguas ASC) began operations in May 2019, setting a new standard in surgical care with its state-of-the-art facilities. As a multi-specialty center, Caguas ASC offers advanced medical technology and a team of highly skilled medical, clinical, and administrative professionals. The center provides a wide range of specialties, including urology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, otorhinolaryngology, podiatry, hand surgery, plastic surgery, and general surgery.
Caguas ASC is particularly proud to be home to Puerto Rico's first ambulatory Total Joint Replacement program, a groundbreaking initiative that has revolutionized the field and successfully completed over 1,500 procedures.
The center is dedicated to delivering high-quality, efficient care tailored to meet the needs of each patient. By offering timely service and the latest in surgical and medical procedures, Caguas ASC ensures fast, safe recovery and patient satisfaction.
How many international patients do you receive per year?
We receive up to 10 international patients yearly in our facility. Most of our international patients come from Caribbean islands, including St. Thomas and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as the west coast of the United States. With the implementation of our medical tourism program, we hope our numbers grow exponentially.
Do you have any patient stories you’d like to share?
Michael Anderson was one of our international patients visiting us from Canada, he had the experience of participating in our Total Joint Replacement Program, here is his story.
“In 2021, while working on a contract in Puerto Rico, I was dealing with significant pain from old sports injuries. Before moving there, Canadian doctors had informed me that my shoulder would need surgical repair, and my hip required a total replacement due to years of long-distance running. Although I was referred to specialists and placed on a waitlist in Canada, the timeline for treatment was uncertain.”
“As my discomfort grew, I decided to explore surgical options in Puerto Rico. I was quickly referred to the Caguas Ambulatory Surgical Center. From the moment I consulted with their specialists, I felt reassured and supported. The team explained every detail of the procedures thoroughly, ensuring I was comfortable with the process. Amazingly, I was scheduled for surgery within days of my consultations.”
“In February 2021, my shoulder surgery was successfully performed, followed by my hip replacement in July 2021. The care I received was exceptional. Every staff member I interacted with made me feel valued and prioritized. They went above and beyond to ensure that both my wife and I were informed and at ease. While I was in surgery, they kept her updated regularly, ensuring her comfort as she waited.”
“The center’s state-of-the-art facilities and compassionate care made the entire experience seamless. Recovery was swift; I was up and moving the day after each procedure, supported by excellent follow-up care.”
“By 2024, when I was finally contacted for surgery in Canada, I had been living pain-free for years, thanks to the outstanding care I received in Puerto Rico. Choosing to have my surgeries at Caguas Ambulatory Surgical Center was not only life-changing but also worth every penny.”
Michael Anderson
June 2021 CASC TJR Program
How do you see the future of medical travel?
The future of medical travel is promising, dynamic, and rapidly growing. With key opportunities emerging, the industry continues to evolve for the better. A strong focus on patient safety, quality standards, and personalized care has driven significant improvements in practices across the medical travel sector. These factors have enabled healthcare providers worldwide to deliver high-quality, seamless experiences to patients. The outlook for our community is both bright and exciting, as we remain committed to consistently prioritizing the needs and expectations of international patients as our primary focus.
Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, stands out as a premier destination for medical tourism by offering U.S.-quality standards and highly trained, board-certified medical professionals.
We provide cost-effective solutions for high-cost procedures, all within healthcare facilities regulated by the U.S. Department of Health. Unlike other medical tourism destinations, Puerto Rico offers the convenience of bilingual staff and requires no passport for U.S. citizens, ensuring seamless patient care and accessibility.
What is something unique that you do as a healthcare business?
What sets Caguas Ambulatory Surgical Center apart is the personalized journey we provide for each of our patients. From the moment you walk through our doors, we are committed to delivering a tailored experience that prioritizes your comfort, care, and well-being. Our dedication to transparency and adherence to the highest standards of quality ensure that every aspect of your treatment is clear, consistent, and trustworthy. These qualities, combined with our compassionate approach and attention to detail, make us a standout choice among healthcare facilities in the region.
What services do you offer to medical travelers?
Our medical tourism program goes beyond clinical services—ranging from evaluation consultations, surgery, and recovery. We also offer comprehensive support to ensure a seamless experience, including accommodations, transportation, tourism recommendations, and food coordination based on patient preferences and needs. Additionally, we can arrange private nursing services and post-operative physical therapy to further support your recovery journey.
What medical procedures do you offer?
Our clinical services include ambulatory surgeries across a variety of specialties, such as urology, ophthalmology, orthopedics, otorhinolaryngology, podiatry, hand surgery, plastic surgery, and general surgery. We place special emphasis on the following procedures:
- Knee, hip, and shoulder arthroplasty (joint replacement)
- Shoulder and knee arthroscopy
- ACL and rotator cuff repairs
- Nasal/sinus endoscopy
- Nasal septum repair
With a focus on delivering high-quality care, we ensure patients receive exceptional treatment tailored to their needs.
Why do you think Better by MTA is so great for the industry?
Better by MTA is revolutionizing the medical travel industry by promoting transparency and security, setting new standards, and addressing the challenges previously faced in the medical travel experience. The platform integrates all key sectors of the industry—hospitality, healthcare providers, and facilitators—fostering trust in its accredited participants and selected facilities. This innovative approach drives growth and enhances global recognition of the medical travel industry.
