FAQ – Your Questions Answered

International Elite Care answers your questions for a clear, safe and premium international surgical journey.

Before the Operation

Which conditions or procedures do you cover?

International Elite Care manages a wide range of conditions, particularly in orthopaedics, including those affecting the foot, ankle, knee and hip. The expertise of our partner surgeons enables us to treat both common situations and more complex cases.

If your condition is not listed on our website, please contact us directly. Every case is reviewed in order to propose the most appropriate care solution, including for rare conditions.

How does the first surgical consultation work (in person or remotely)?

The first consultation can be conducted remotely via video call, allowing international patients to obtain a surgical opinion without travelling. This discussion serves to analyse your medical situation, discuss treatment options and determine the optimal care plan within International Elite Care. An in-person consultation can also be arranged.

Who are the partner surgeons and what is their expertise?

International Elite Care draws on a team of expert surgeons recognised for their expertise, regular practice and high surgical volume.

The founders of International Elite Care are themselves experienced specialists, practising in demanding medical environments in France and Andorra. Their expertise covers in particular conditions of the knee, hip, foot and ankle, with a human approach founded on experience, precision and quality of care. All International Elite Care surgeons are selected for their professional approach and in accordance with the highest French standards of care.

How can I find out whether my case can be treated?

You can check whether your condition features among those listed on our website. If not, simply contact us by email or via the contact form so that your situation can be assessed. A video consultation can also be arranged to review your medical records and determine the most suitable care plan.

Can I choose the surgeon who will operate on me?

Absolutely. You can choose the surgeon who will perform your procedure based on your condition, your preferred location for treatment and your personal preferences. International Elite Care offers expertise tailored to your situation, within an exacting and transparent medical framework.

Your Medical Stay

What does arrival and reception on site look like in practice?

The organisation of your arrival depends on the location of your treatment. International Elite Care can arrange airport reception as well as transfers between the airport, hotel and clinic.

After the procedure, you benefit from bespoke support, including the recovery phase and, depending on the type of surgery, a return to a hotel room as part of day-case care.

Premium leisure activities (yacht outings, golf experiences, private visits, personalised requests) may also be arranged if your state of health permits, to make your time on site as enjoyable as possible.

Do you offer support with administrative and medical formalities?

Yes. International Elite Care provides personalised assistance with the administrative and medical formalities associated with your treatment, delivering a smooth and stress-free pathway before, during and after your procedure.

Is accommodation (hotel, apartment, clinic) organised by your team?

Yes. International Elite Care can arrange your accommodation in a hotel, apartment or clinic, depending on your medical situation, the length of the stay and your preferences. The aim is to provide a comfortable setting for a restful and exclusive experience.

Can I bring a companion or family member?

Yes. You are very welcome to be accompanied by a companion or family member.

International Elite Care can incorporate this into the organisation of your stay, with tailored services that may involve an additional cost depending on the arrangements requested.

How long do I need to stay before and after the operation?

The length of the stay depends on the type of procedure. It can range from day-case surgery, with a return to your hotel room the same day, to several days on site when the nature of the surgery requires it. For your peace of mind, International Elite Care informs you of the recommended duration well in advance of your procedure.

Do you offer follow-up after I return to my country?

Yes. International Elite Care provides follow-up after your return to ensure continuity of care. This can be conducted remotely through secure exchanges, including via a dedicated application (Orthense) to support you over the longer term.

Insurance and Funding

Does my international or national health insurance cover surgery abroad?

Coverage depends on your insurance contract. International Elite Care provides a medical cost estimate that you can submit to your insurer to clarify the reimbursement terms. Once your insurer has responded, our team can communicate the overall cost, the portion potentially reimbursed and the remaining balance, in complete transparency.

What costs are included in your care package (consultations, surgery, stay)?

International Elite Care offers a comprehensive care package, excluding pre- and post-operative consultations. It typically includes: clinic fees, required investigations, surgical and anaesthesia fees, clinic and hotel accommodation, transfers between the airport, hotel and clinic, and the cost of implants.

What happens if I need to postpone or cancel my operation?

In the event of a postponement or cancellation, no specific penalty is applied to the patient. As the procedure is planned on a slot exclusively reserved for you, that slot is simply forfeited.

Will I receive a precise quotation before confirming the operation?

Of course. A detailed, transparent quotation is systematically provided before any confirmation, so that you can make your decision with complete peace of mind.

Can I self-fund my operation abroad?

Yes. It is entirely possible to undergo a self-funded surgery abroad without insurance. International Elite Care supports you in financing your procedure in full transparency, allowing you to organise your care with confidence.

Timelines and Practical Organisation

What is the average waiting time for a first appointment?

The average waiting time for a first appointment is approximately 3 days, particularly for video consultations, enabling rapid initial contact for international patients.

How long is the wait between the consultation and the operation?

The timeframe depends on whether the procedure is urgent or planned. Urgent cases can be managed quickly, sometimes on the same day or within days of the consultation. For planned surgeries, a regulatory minimum of 48 hours must be observed between the consultation and the procedure.

Is it possible to obtain an urgent appointment in the case of severe pain?

Yes. In cases of significant pain or situations requiring a rapid assessment, an urgent appointment can be arranged to provide appropriate care as quickly as possible.

How does the contact and online booking process work?

Initial contact is made via the form available on the International Elite Care website.

What languages do you speak (doctors and coordinators)?

The medical teams and coordinators at International Elite Care speak French and English.

Quality and Safety of Care

Why choose France or Andorra for surgery?

The choice of country depends on your personal situation, your place of residence and your expectations, as well as where the specialist treating you practises. France and Andorra offer high Western medical standards, with rigorous selection of practitioners, a high level of expertise grounded in regular practice, controlled costs and thorough follow-up before and after the procedure.

Are the partner clinics certified and recognised?

Yes. International Elite Care selects exclusively facilities recognised for the quality and safety of their care. The establishments in which procedures are carried out meet strict medical standards and are certified by the relevant health authorities, notably the Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS) in France.

Do I have a dedicated point of contact from start to finish?

Yes. A dedicated coordinator supports you throughout your journey with International Elite Care, from the first point of contact through to follow-up after your return.

How do I get in touch and book online?

Getting in touch is straightforward — simply send an email or use the form available on the International Elite Care website. Our team then supports you in organising the rest of your pathway.