Studies show that HIFU can achieve up to 96% tumor removal, especially when combined with other treatments to improve survival. This makes advanced cancer treatments abroad a promising option for many patients. In Europe, cancer treatment can be up to 80% cheaper than in the US or UK, without compromising quality. Countries like Turkey, Germany, and South Korea are home to top cancer hospitals accredited by ISO 9001. Bookimed's guide will help you navigate your options, from selecting the best clinic to understanding costs and payment plans for cancer care abroad.
📌Key Takeaways: HIFU Treatment Cost
🟢 Significant saving of up to 80% compared to the US and UK:
Turkey: $7,500–$10,000;
Germany: $15,000–$20,000;
South Korea: $15,000–$19,000;
🟢 Top-quality care. Clinics abroad are accredited by JCI, ISO 9001, and ISAPS.
🟢 Fewer risks: HIFU offers fewer side effects and quicker recovery than traditional cancer treatments.
🟢 Comprehensive packages. All-inclusive treatment options cover diagnostics, treatment, accommodation, and transportation.
Table of Contents:
What Is HIFU Ablation and Why Is It So Popular?
HIFU or HIFUA (High-intensity focused ultrasound) is a non-invasive treatment that uses ultrasound waves to target and treat specific body areas, like tumors, without surgery.
💡Think of it like focusing sunlight through a magnifying glass to burn only a tiny spot. The sound waves heat the tissue, causing damage to the targeted area while leaving surrounding tissue unharmed.
How does high intensity focused ultrasound work?
Precision. Ultrasound tumor ablation uses focused ultrasound waves to target a specific spot in the body, the same layer, like a tumor or growth, without affecting the surrounding tissue.
Heat treatment. These ultrasound waves generate heat at the exact target, which destroys the unwanted tissue.
Guided by ultrasound. Doctors use ultrasound imaging throughout the procedure to ensure the treatment is spot-on, ensuring the right area is being treated accurately.
👉HIFU has great potential, and researchers continue to discover new ways to use it. One promising application is safely opening the blood-brain barrier to deliver medicine directly to brain tumors.
Conditions treated by image-guided focused ultrasound
Prostate cancer. Targets and shrinks prostate tumors.
Uterine fibroids. Treats non-cancerous growths in the uterus.
Liver tumors. Helps manage liver cancer or benign tumors.
Other tumors. It can also treat tumors in areas like the kidney or breast.
👉The study showed that HIFU treatment worked well for bone cancer. About 84% of patients with primary and 75% with secondary tumors responded to the therapy. Lab results also improved, and no serious side effects were reported.
✅ No surgery, meaning a quicker recovery with fewer risks. It helps patients recover within a few days to a week, allowing them to return to regular routines with minimal disruption.
Feel free to read the HIFU treatment reviews on Bookimed. HIFU reviews can help future patients understand the effectiveness, risks, and real experiences with this cancer treatment option.
How Much Does Hifu Treatment Cost?
Choosing HIFU treatment abroad can save you a lot of money, all while ensuring high-quality care, especially at clinics accredited by JCI or members of ISAPS.
The cost of HIFU treatment varies by country, clinic, and the condition being treated. Below is a breakdown of HIFU treatment prices across different countries.
| Country | HIFU Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Turkey | $7,500–$10,000 |
| Germany | $15,000–$20,000 |
| South Korea | $15,000–$19,000 |
| United States | $15,000–$30,000 |
| United Kingdom | $18,000–$30,000 |
| Czech Republic | $8,000–$12,000 |
| Malaysia | $3,000–$6,000 |
| Poland | $6,000–$10,000 |
| Spain | $13,000–$15,000 |
| Israel | $35,000–$50,000 |
💰How much can patients save?
Patients get to save anywhere from 50% to 80%.
Turkey offers HIFU treatment starting at $7,500. In contrast, US prices range from $15,000 to $30,000. By choosing Turkey, patients can save 50–70%.
South Korea and Germany offer treatments for $15,000–$19,000 and $15,000–$20,000, respectively. Compared to the US and UK, which charge up to $30,000, patients can save 30–50% by choosing these countries.
Factors That Affect the Cost of HIFU Treatment
A few factors can influence the cost of the treatment. Understanding these factors helps patients decide where and how to undergo HIFUA treatment.
Tumor type and location. The cost varies depending on the tumor.
Treating prostate canceris generally cheaper than liver tumorsdue to smaller treatment areas and less precision needed. Complex conditions can raise costs by 20–40%, especially if multiple sessions are required.
Country and city. HIFU treatment in countries like the US or UK can cost $15,000–$30,000, while in countries like Turkey and Malaysia, it can be as low as $3,000–$10,000. Savings are up to 70%.
Inpatient vs. outpatient care. Inpatient care (hospital stay) can add $1,000–$5,000. Outpatient care, with no overnight stay, is usually 20–30% cheaper.
Doctor's expertise, education, and technology used. Highly trained doctors with advanced HIFU technology can charge 10–30% more, adding up to $2,000–$5,000 to the price.
The doctor's credentials, such as specialized training in HIFU techniques and certifications from organizations like ISAPS, may ensure better precision and reduce the need for additional sessions.
Extra services. Additional services like translation, transportation, and recovery stays can raise the price by $500–$3,000, depending on the package and clinic.
HIFU vs. Other Cancer Treatment Prices
Patients can save anywhere from 50% to 80% by choosing non-surgical cancer ablation over more expensive options like surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.
| Country | HIFU Cost | Cancer Surgery Cost | Radiation Therapy Cost (per session) | Chemotherapy (per session) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Czech Republic | $8,000–$12,000 | $9,000–$12,000 | $3,300–$4,400 | $1,100–$2,200 |
| Germany | $15,000–$20,000 | $18,400–$19,000 | $6,600–$8,800 | $2,200–$4,400 |
| Israel | $35,000–$50,000 | $20,000–$25,000 | $6,000–$7,000 | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Malaysia | $3,000–$6,000 | Starting at $9,000 | $3,000–$5,000 | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Poland | $6,000–$10,000 | $8,000–$10,000 | $3,500–$5,000 | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Republic of Korea | $15,000–$19,000 | $12,000–$15,000 | $6,000–$8,000 | $2,500–$4,500 |
| Spain | $13,000–$15,000 | $15,000–$20,000 | $5,000–$7,500 | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Switzerland | $15,000–$20,000 | $25,000–$30,000 | $10,000–$15,000 | $5,000–$8,000 |
| Turkey | $7,500–$10,000 | $7,000–$12,000 | $6,000–$9,000 | $1,200–$2,600 |
| United Kingdom | $18,000–$30,000 | $15,000–$25,000 | $7,500–$10,000 | $3,500–$5,500 |
| United States | $15,000–$30,000 | $20,000–$50,000 | $1,000–$1,500 | $4,000–$10,000 |
For example, HIFU in Turkey costs around $7,500–$10,000, while cancer surgery in the United States can reach up to $50,000. This shows potential savings of up to 80% when opting for HIFU treatment abroad.
✅The long-term savings are significant, as HIFU offers quicker recovery times, no need for a hospital stay. It reduces side effects as opposed to traditional treatments, which often involve multiple sessions and extended hospital stays.
All-Inclusive HIFU Treatment Packages: What's Included?
HIFU packages abroad typically include everything from medical care to travel arrangements, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective experience.
💚 Bookimed offers all-inclusive packages through partner clinics, often with added benefits. Patients find lower prices on Bookimed compared to booking directly with clinics. Additionally, special limited-time offers provide even more significant discounts.
Here's a quick breakdown of what's included:
HIFU treatment
Initial consultation to assess your condition.
HIFU procedure for targeted treatment.
Post-treatment consultation for recovery monitoring.
Diagnostic tests
Ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI for treatment planning and monitoring.
Blood tests to ensure readiness for the procedure.
Accommodation
Comfortable hotel or clinic room for the treatment and recovery period.
Airport transfers and local transportation
Airport pick-up/drop-off and local transport to and from the clinic.
24/7 assistance
A medical coordinator will manage your appointments and treatments and liaise with the clinic.
Translation and patient advocacy for a seamless experience.
Post-treatment care
Follow-up consultations and medication for recovery.
Optional add-ons
Cosmetic treatments or VIP services for enhanced care.
Top Medical Tourism Destinations for HIFU Ablation
Countries offer various benefits based on cost, quality of care, and convenience.
Let us examine the pros and cons of three top destinations: Turkey, Germany, and South Korea.
Turkey
Turkey attracts millions of health tourists from countries like Germany, Russia, Azerbaijan, Iraq, Tunisia, Georgia, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar.
Pros:
Affordable prices. With HIFU treatment ranging from $7,500 to $10,000, Turkey provides some of the most competitive prices, especially when compared to Western countries, where costs can exceed $30,000.
High-quality care. Hospitals hold certifications from organizations such as ISAPS.
Convenient packages. Turkish clinics offer all-inclusive packages that cover everything from HIFU treatment to accommodation and airport transfers.
Cons:
Travel distance. The flight time from Australia to Turkey typically takes around 20 to 24 hours, depending on the departure city and the number of layovers.
Memorial Şişli Hospital in Istanbul is the largest multidisciplinary medical center in Istanbul. It is the 1st hospital in Turkeу and the 21st in the world accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI) for the high quality of treatment.
Memorial Şişli specialties are the following: oncology, bone marrow transplant, in vitro fertilization (IVF), neurosurgery, weight loss surgery, including gastric lap banding, and organ transplant. The success rate of organ transplant at Memorial is 90%.
Patients from 92 countries choose Memorial Şişli for treatment annually.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| High intensity focused ultrasound ablation (HIFU) | $9900 - $12000 |
Anadolu Medical Center is a multidisciplinary facility providing American treatment standards at affordable prices in Istanbul (Turkey). Anadolu affiliates with the Johns Hopkins Hospital, one of the best medical facilities in the USA.
Oncology, hematology oncology, urology, neurosurgery, women's health, IVF, and check-up are the leading specialties in Anadolu Hospital.
The medical center is among the Top 10 hospitals in the world according to the Medical Travel Quality Alliance (MTQUA), an international organization that promotes excellent standards of health services for medical tourists.
Patients from the United States, the United Kingdom, Romania, Bulgaria, and Azerbaijan choose Anadolu Medical Center.
Summary about Anadolu from patients' reviews:
The Anadolu Clinic is a highly-regarded medical facility located on the coast of the marble sea. It is renowned for its professionalism, cleanliness, and attention to detail. The staff is polite, attentive, and responsive to patients' needs. Highly-trained and skilled doctors are available for comprehensive examinations and treatments, and the recovery room is bright and comfortable with a beautiful view. Patients have benefited from the services of an excellent translator, Elmira, and the support of coordinators Zakhida, Bakhtygul, and Amina, Gayana. The clinic also offers a transfer service from the airport to the hotel and back, as well as booking a hotel conveniently located 10-15 minutes away. Anadolu is the perfect choice for a successful treatment and recovery.
Top 5 Anadolu Advantages:
- Highly skilled and experienced medical staff
- Advanced equipment
- Personal coordinators and interpreters
- Pleasant atmosphere
- Wide range of medical services and treatments
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
Germany
Germany offers the exact pricing for domestic and international patients, keeping the costs consistent and fair for everyone.
Pros:
Top-notch expertise and training. Germany is known for its rigorous medical training and high standards of care. Doctors here often receive specialized training from prestigious institutions such as Charité University in Berlin and Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich.
Advanced technology. German clinics use the latest ultrasound systems. Additionally, many facilities are JCI-accredited, adhering to the highest global standards.
Comprehensive aftercare: Besides the treatment, German medical centers provide thorough post-treatment care, ensuring the best possible recovery.
Cons:
Waiting times. Due to the high demand for treatment, patients may experience longer waiting periods for consultations and appointments.
Asklepios Hospital Barmbek is a clinic No. 1 for foreign patients according to the Medical Travel Quality Alliance, the international organization for medical tourism.
The Hospital is a multidisciplinary medical center. It is a part of Asklepios Kliniken, the most significant German hospitals' network.
Asklepios Barmbek specializes in Oncology, Oncohematology, Surgery, and Pulmonology.
80,000 patients from Germany and other countries worldwide receive treatment annually here.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
Solingen Municipal Hospital/Academic Hospital of the University of Cologne is among top clinics in Germany according to Focus magazine - one of the most widely circulated German editions. Städtisches Klinikum Solingen is a certified medical institution treating over 60,000 patients per year.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| High intensity focused ultrasound ablation (HIFU) | $2188 - $2735 |
South Korea (Republic of Korea)
The country boasts excellent outcomes in cancer mortality rates and 5-year survival rates due to accurate diagnostics (e.g., PET-CT, 3.0 Tesla MRI) and innovative surgical methods like CyberKnife and Da Vinci robotic surgery.
Pros:
Advanced medical technology. Clinics use the latest systems for high-intensity focused ultrasound, offering precise and effective treatments.
Affordable prices. While not as inexpensive as in Turkey, HIFU treatment in South Korea is still cost-effective compared to the United States or Europe. Prices range from $15,000 to $19,000, offering patients high-quality care at a reasonable price.
High-quality medical tourism services. South Korea offers international patients comprehensive services like translation assistance, transportation, and accommodation options.
Cons:
Language barriers. While medical professionals speak English, there may be communication challenges with non-medical staff, especially in smaller cities.
Severance Hospital in Korea is an international multidisciplinary clinic at Yonsei University, located in Seoul South Korea. Yonsei Severance Hospital's Health System includes: oncology and rehabilitation centers, pediatric and women's clinics, cardiovascular center and Clinic of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology. The Hospital has been certified by JCI (Joint Commission International) and serves 1.6 million outpatients annually.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
Understanding Insurance and Focused Ultrasound Therapy
While HIFU offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional treatments, insurance coverage can be limited.
Is HIFU covered by insurance?
In most cases, HIFU treatment is not covered by insurance. This is particularly true for elective treatments like prostate cancer and uterine fibroids, which many insurance plans do not deem medically necessary.
❕ Insurance companies typically cover only more traditional methods like surgery or radiation.
✅ If insurance doesn't cover HIFU treatment, here are a few ways to make it more affordable:
Pay out-of-pocket. Patients choose to pay directly for HIFU, especially when traveling abroad. For example, HIFU in Turkey costs between $7,500–$10,000, making it $17,500–$22,500 less expensive than in the US.
*Choosing Bookimed means you do not need to pay anything extra. The service is entirely free for patients.
Financing options. Some clinics offer flexible payment plans or work with lenders to provide medical loans. It helps to break down the price of HIFU treatment into manageable monthly payments.
Health tourism insurance. If you're traveling abroad for HIFU, health tourism insurance can cover the treatment and, travel and accommodation costs, making the entire experience more affordable.
✅Even without insurance, HIFU treatment is cheaper abroad, especially when booking comprehensive packages, including treatment, transportation, accommodation, and aftercare.
Begin Your HIFU Treatment Journey with Bookimed
Bookimed makes it easy to access affordable HIFU treatment abroad. Here's how to start your medical journey:
💚 Browse HIFU treatment packages – Explore options and prices to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
💚 Submit an inquiry – Fill out a form detailing your medical condition, including the type of tumor or condition you are treating, and your treatment preferences.
💚 Get expert advice – Our medical coordinators will help you choose the best clinic for HIFU treatment based on your condition, desired outcomes, and financial considerations.
💚 Confirm & book – Once you've selected the right clinic, we will take care of all the procedure details, ensuring a smooth treatment process.
💚 Travel arrangements – We assist with accommodation, local transfers, and resolving unforeseen issues, ensuring a seamless experience during your HIFUA treatment journey.
💚 Full support – Enjoy 24/7 support from your dedicated Bookimed coordinator, guiding you during your stay and treatment abroad.
Related Articles
- Hsiao, Y.-H., Kuo, S.-J., Tsai, H.-D., Chou, M.-C., & Yeh, G.-P. (2016). Clinical Application of High-intensity Focused Ultrasound in Cancer Therapy. Journal of Cancer, 7(3), 225–231. https://doi.org/10.7150/jca.13906
- Izadifar, Z., Izadifar, Z., Chapman, D., & Babyn, P. (2020). An Introduction to High Intensity Focused Ultrasound: Systematic Review on Principles, Devices, and Clinical Applications. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 9(2), 460. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm9020460
- Siegel, R. L., Kratzer, T. B., Giaquinto, A. N., Sung, H., & Jemal, A. (2025b). Cancer statistics, 2025. CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. https://doi.org/10.3322/caac.21871
- Turkey Medical Tourism Market Size & Trends 2024-2034. (n.d.). Market Research and Consulting | Future Market Insights, Inc. https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/turkey-medical-tourism-sector-outlook-and-forecast
- Germany Medical Tourism Market Size & Trends 2025-2035. (n.d.-a). Market Research and Consulting | Future Market Insights, Inc. https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/germany-medical-tourism-market
- Kim, H., & Lee, Y. (2023). South Korea's Medical Tourism Competitiveness and Future Strategy: Focused on Cancer Treatment: A Review. Iranian Journal of Public Health. https://doi.org/10.18502/ijph.v52i12.14310