If you or someone you love is facing lung cancer, you want the best care possible—no matter where it is. So, where to get the best lung cancer treatment? Germany, South Korea, Israel, Austria, Spain, and Turkey are home to some of the most respected lung cancer hospitals in the world.
In this article, Bookimed has researched what makes each country stand out, what its clinics have to offer, and how to choose the right one.
Destination highlights
◉ Germany and Austria lead in survival rates with 80–93% five-year survival for stage I patients.
◉ Turkey offers the best value with treatment costs 50–70% lower than US prices while achieving 100% survival for small tumors.
◉ Israel leads in innovation with AI treatment matching and discoveries like Erbitux effectiveness for specific gene mutations.
◉ South Korea ranks in the top 5 globally for lung cancer research, while Spain leads research in Europe.
◉ All 6 countries provide major cost savings compared to US treatment, with potential savings of 30%–70% depending on the lung cancer program.
Table of Contents
- Best Countries for Lung Cancer Treatment: Overview
- Germany: Precision Medicine Leader
- Turkey: Advanced Cancer Care at Lower Cost
- Israel: Innovation Hub
- South Korea: Technological Powerhouse
- Spain: Research-Driven Care
- Austria: EU Leader in Survival Rates and Diagnostics
- Conclusion: Choosing Among the Best Lung Cancer Treatment Centers in the World
Overview: Where Is the Best Cancer Treatment in the World?
Here's how the top destinations compare across key factors:
| Country | Stage I survival rate | What stands out | Avg. surgery cost at top centers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | 80%–93% 5-year survival | Precision diagnostics, multidisciplinary teams | $19,500–$32,500 |
| Turkey | 65%–100% 5-year survival (depending on tumor size) | High-tech, low-cost care, US partnerships | $10,000–$27,000 |
| Israel | 80% 10-year survival | AI-powered medicine, research breakthroughs | $26,000–$32,000 |
| South Korea | 82% 5-year survival | Tech leadership, CancerSCAN genomic profiling | $15,000–$33,000 |
| Spain | 80% 10-year survival | Strong research ecosystem, early access to clinical trials | $20,000–$40,000 |
| Austria | 82.3% 5-year survival | National audits, tiered care network, fast-track lung cancer diagnosis | $20,000–$27,000 |
Note: These costs are based on information from Bookimed’s partner clinics and are approximate. Actual prices may vary by clinic, condition, and treatment plan.
GET A FREE QUOTE
- Dr. Yesim Yildirim is a member of the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO).
- Anadolu Medical Center is among the top 10 hospitals in the world according to MTQUA.
- Included Services: Consultation with an oncologist, histopathology revision, MRI of the chest, PET/CT in lung cancer, KRAS, NRAS, BRAF mutation testing, chemotherapy for lung cancer, immunotherapy with Keytruda (pembrolizumab).
- Stay Info: 0 days stay in the hotel, not included in the price.
- Method: Chemotherapy and immunotherapy with Keytruda (pembrolizumab).
- Dr. Joan Carles Galceran has been an onco-urologist since 1987, specializing in cancer treatment.
- Centro Médico Teknon is the No.1 choice for celebrities, sportsmen, and politicians for medical care.
- Included Services: Electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests.
- Stay Info: 2 days stay in the hotel, accommodation not included in the price.
- Dr. Hasan Fevzi Batirel has been a thoracic surgery specialist at Memorial Ataşehir Hospital since 2019.
- Memorial Ataşehir Hospital has a JCI certificate for compliance with international treatment standards.
- Included Services: Consultation with a doctor, VIP transfer.
- Stay Info: 3 days stay in the hotel, accommodations not included in the price.
- Dr. Hasan Fevzi Batirel has served as a thoracic surgery specialist at Memorial Ataşehir Hospital since 2019.
- Memorial Ataşehir Hospital holds a Joint Commission International (JCI) certificate for international treatment standards.
- Included Services: Consultation with a doctor, VIP transfer.
- Stay Info: 7 days stay in the hospital, 5 days stay in the hotel, accommodation not included.
- Method: Surgery, chemotherapy.
- Dr. Stefanie Veit has specialized in minimally invasive resection of thymic tumors and thoracic metastasis surgery.
- Nordwest Clinic (Krankenhaus) is a leading hospital in Germany, pioneering innovations like 3D ultrasound and anticancer vaccines.
- Included Services: Consultation with an oncologist, Consultation with a surgeon, PET/CT in lung cancer, Extended analysis of blood, Histopathology revision, Lung cancer surgery, Chemotherapy for lung cancer, Surgical intervention - 4-7 days, inpatient (hospitalization included).
- Stay Info: Inpatient stay for surgical intervention is included, chemotherapy is outpatient and lasts 2-3 months.
- Technique: Minimally invasive resection of thymic tumors, thoracic metastasis surgery.
Germany: Precision Medicine Leader
Germany is one of the most advanced countries in the world for lung cancer care. For patients diagnosed at stage 1, 5-year survival rates are 80%–93%, compared to 65%–67% in the US and UK.
What makes Germany special:
- Universal access to genetic testing. Through a national program (nNGM), all patients with advanced lung cancer receive next-generation sequencing to identify mutations.
- Multidisciplinary care. Every lung cancer patient's case goes before a multidisciplinary team following the latest German Cancer Society (GCS) guidelines. Care teams include medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, psycho-oncologists, physiotherapists, and nutritionists alongside medical specialists.
- Early detection. A national lung cancer screening program using low-dose CT helps catch cancer sooner.
According to data from Bookimed’s partner clinics, the cost of treating lung cancer in Germany can be 30%–60% lower than in the US. Here are the approximate private costs for some treatment options:
Lung cancer treatment | Cost in Germany |
|---|---|
Chemotherapy | |
Radiation therapy | |
Lung cancer surgery |
Top lung cancer hospitals in Germany
The following lung cancer centers were highlighted by Bookimed’s smart ranking based on patient reviews, clinic technologies, treatment programs, and accreditations:
Nordwest Clinic (Krankenhaus), Frankfurt
☆ Germany's innovation leader, offering 3D ultrasound imaging, focused ultrasound therapy (FUS), and anticancer vaccines.
☆ Accredited by the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO).
☆ Among Germany’s Top 100 Hospitals according to Newsweek.
☆ Houses 5 research institutes, including a branch of the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research.
Nordwest Clinic in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, offers online consultations with oncologists for lung cancer patients. The consultation costs EUR 1,160 and includes a remote radio-oncology tumor board plus a video consultation with a specialist. The clinic was recognized in 2019 as a top German hospital for radiotherapy effectiveness.
What the Consultation Includes
The online consultation starts with a remote radio-oncology tumor board. A team of specialists reviews your medical records and imaging studies. After the board meeting, you have a video consultation with an oncologist. The preparation time is approximately 3 working days after you submit your medical information.
You need to provide complete information about previous examinations. This includes links to imaging disks and existing medical reports. The clinic uses this information to prepare a detailed treatment plan.
Expert Oncologists
Professor Elke Jaeger leads the oncology department at Nordwest Clinic. She has 39 years of experience and has performed approximately 1,100 procedures. Professor Jaeger is a member of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer expert commission. She has been included in the list of best oncologists in Germany for 20 consecutive years.
Professor Jaeger specializes in therapeutic individualized anti-tumor vaccines. She teaches interdisciplinary oncology at Goethe University. Her research has been cited in over 7,000 scientific sources.
About Nordwest Clinic
Nordwest Clinic is a large multidisciplinary hospital. It specializes in oncology, neurology, neurosurgery, and orthopedics. The clinic treats over 25,000 patients annually. It holds a TÜV AG Company Research & Investing Certificate.
The clinic has a 4.5 rating based on 52 patient reviews. 91% of patients recommend it to others. Some reviews mention Russian-speaking staff and assistance with transportation from the train station.
Next Steps After Consultation
After the video consultation, you receive a treatment recommendation. If you decide to come to Germany for treatment, the clinic prepares a detailed individual program. The program includes specific costs and treatment timeline. The consultation does not include accommodation or transfers.
Contact Nordwest Clinic to schedule your online consultation and receive an expert opinion on your lung cancer treatment options.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| CyberKnife | $9389.82 - $16432.19 |
| Lung segmentectomy | $19953.37 - $24648.28 |
| Chemotherapy for lung cancer | $2934.32 - $4694.91 |
| Lung cancer surgery | $19953.37 - $24648.28 |
Asklepios Hospital Barmbek, Hamburg
☆ Ranked among Germany’s Top 30 Hospitals by Newsweek.
☆ Certified by the German Cancer Society (DKG) and ISO.
☆ Offers targeted therapy, chemotherapy, interventional oncology, and multimodal treatments.
☆ Surgeries are performed with laparoscopic or endoscopic techniques (1–3 cm incisions).
Lung cancer treatment is performed by a team of specialists which consists of an oncologist, surgeon, radiologist, etc. The doctors take into account all the peculiarities of patient organism to provide the best treatment for lung cancer.
The therapeutic tactic is developed only after complete examination. It takes 5-10 days. The duration depends on the case complexity.
Among treatment options are chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, targeted therapy. In most of the cases, combination of therapies is applied.
The treatment plan is individual, depends on the tumor size and cancer stage.
In case of surgery, a patient needs to stay in the Hospital for 5-14 days. The duration of operation varies from 30 minutes to 3 hours.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Chemotherapy for lung cancer | $3000 - $5500 |
| Da Vinci Robotic System | $21127.1 - $25822.01 |
| Lung cancer surgery | $23474.55 - $32864.37 |
Turkey: Advanced Cancer Care at Lower Cost
Turkey delivers world-class lung cancer outcomes at costs 50%–70% cheaper than in the West. Patients with small 1cm tumors achieve 100% five-year survival rates, while results for patients with 3cm tumors reach 65%–70%.
What makes Turkey stand out:
- International partnerships. Turkish hospitals actively collaborate with leading institutions like Johns Hopkins and integrate the latest lung cancer research.
- Advanced technology. Over 40 JCI-accredited facilities use Da Vinci robotic surgery, CyberKnife, and Gamma Knife procedures.
- Lower costs. Cancer care in Turkey is 50%–70% cheaper than in the US due to healthcare investments, lower operational costs, and favorable exchange rates.
Lung cancer treatment | Cost in Turkey |
|---|---|
Lung cancer surgery | |
Radiation therapy | |
Immunotherapy | |
Chemotherapy |
Best hospitals for lung cancer treatment in Turkey
Anadolu Medical Center, Istanbul
One of Turkey’s most advanced cancer centers, Anadolu combines US-level technology with research-based treatment.
☆ Affiliated with Johns Hopkins Hospital, ranked among the world’s top 5 clinics (Newsweek).
☆ Certified by ISO, JCI, ESMO, and the Organization of European Cancer Institutes (OECI).
☆ One of the few centers in Turkey offering CTC liquid biopsy for ultra-early cancer detection (tumors as small as 5 mm).
☆ Offers high-precision treatment with CyberKnife, Varian Edge, TrueBeam, and Da Vinci robotic surgery.
Anadolu Medical Center in Istanbul, Turkey, offers lung cancer treatment starting from 2,500 USD per course of systemic therapy. The clinic is affiliated with Johns Hopkins Medicine and holds JCI and ESMO accreditations. Experienced oncologists like Dr. Bülent Karagöz and Dr. Sinan Karaaslan lead treatment using chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy.
Diagnosis and Staging
The clinic performs comprehensive diagnostics to determine the best treatment. This includes PET-CT scans to assess disease spread. Brain MRI checks for metastases. Molecular testing identifies mutations like EGFR, ALK, ROS1, and PD-L1. These tests guide therapy selection.
Diagnostic workup takes 3–5 days on average. Patients should bring all previous imaging, pathology blocks, and medical reports. A multidisciplinary tumor board reviews each case. This team includes oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on cancer stage and molecular profile. For early-stage disease, surgery may be an option. Advanced cases receive systemic therapy. This includes targeted drugs for specific mutations. Immunotherapy is used when PD-L1 is positive. Chemotherapy remains a standard option.
Radiation therapy costs from 10,000–16,500 USD. It treats localized tumors or metastases. One course of systemic therapy ranges from 2,500–11,000 USD. The price varies by medication type.
Doctors and Expertise
Dr. Bülent Karagöz has 32 years of experience in medical oncology. He specializes in lung cancer treatment. Dr. Sinan Karaaslan has worked in oncology since 2003. He is a member of the Turkish Lung Cancer Society. Both doctors use modern protocols aligned with American standards.
Professor Hale Başak Çalar provides radiation oncology expertise. Professor Altan Kır is a thoracic surgeon for surgical cases. The team approach ensures comprehensive care.
What's Included
Diagnostic packages include consultations, imaging, and molecular tests. A medical oncologist consultation plus PET-CT costs 850–950 USD. Brain MRI is priced at 600–700 USD. Pathology review and molecular testing start from 450–1,500 USD.
Free services include airport transfers and a personal coordinator. A Russian-speaking interpreter assists during consultations. Medical reports are translated into English.
Clinic Accreditations
Anadolu Medical Center holds JCI accreditation since 2007. It has ESMO Designated Centre status. The clinic is a member of OECI. It received the Planetree Gold award for patient-centered care.
The clinic has IASIOS accreditation for interventional oncology. It ranks 2nd in the MTQUA rating for international patients. 92% of patients recommend the clinic based on 495+ reviews.
Contact Anadolu Medical Center to discuss your lung cancer treatment options. The team will create an individual plan based on your diagnosis and test results.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Lung segmentectomy | $15000 - $25000 |
| Lung cancer surgery | $15000 - $27000 |
| Da Vinci Robotic System | $24000 |
| Stereotaxic radiosurgery | $6000 - $8500 |
| CyberKnife | $6000 - $9000 |
| Radiotherapy for lung cancer | $12000 - $18000 |
| Lobectomy | $17605.91 - $29343.19 |
| Proton-beam therapy | $1500 - $2000 |
| Chemotherapy for lung cancer | $1400 - $3300 |
Memorial Şişli Hospital
Turkey's first JCI-accredited hospital serving lung cancer patients from 92 countries annually.
☆ Follows international NCCN and ESMO treatment protocols.
☆ TrueBeam STx radiation therapy with 1.5mm precision.
☆ Uses Da Vinci robotic surgery, laparoscopy, and endoscopy for scar-free tumor removal.
Memorial Şişli Hospital in Istanbul offers lung cancer treatment starting from $120 USD for an online consultation. The hospital provides comprehensive diagnostic and treatment programs, with prices ranging from $1,450 to $18,000 depending on the complexity of care. Memorial Şişli was the first hospital in Turkey to receive JCI accreditation and treats patients from 92 countries annually.
Diagnostic Services
The hospital offers complete diagnostic workups for lung cancer patients. A PET-CT scan costs $700. Brain MRI with contrast is priced at $750. Biopsy procedures range from $3,000 to $8,000 depending on complexity. Extended blood tests including HBV, HCV, and HIV screening cost between $1,000 and $2,500.
Pathological examination with molecular testing costs $2,100 to $3,500. This includes PDL1, EGFR, ALK, and ROS1 mutation analysis. NGS genetic testing for advanced cases is available for $5,350. These tests help determine the most effective treatment approach.
Treatment Options
Memorial Şişli provides multiple treatment modalities. Chemotherapy combined with immunotherapy starts at $4,500 for the first session. Subsequent sessions cost $1,850 to $6,241 each. The hospital uses medications like Tecentriq, cisplatin, and etoposide. Treatment cycles run every 21 days.
Radiation therapy is available using IMRT technology. A course of 5 fractions costs $6,400 to $6,450. For more extensive treatment, 15 IMRT sessions cost $5,300. The hospital uses TrueBeam STX linear accelerators for precision targeting.
Bone-strengthening medication for patients with metastases costs $175 to $200 per dose. This treatment continues every 28 days and may last several years.
Medical Team
Dr. Serkan Keskin leads the medical oncology team. He has 24 years of experience and has performed over 1,100 procedures. Dr. Keskin ranked first in Turkey's Medical Oncology Proficiency Exam in 2012. He has published 42 articles in international journals.
Professor Mehmet Akif Ozturk provides consultations for complex cases. He has 13 years of experience in medical oncology. Professor Zuleyha Akgun specializes in radiation oncology. The team includes pulmonologists and cardiologists for comprehensive care.
Hospital Accreditation
Memorial Şişli holds JCI accreditation for quality of care. It was the 21st hospital worldwide to receive this certification. The hospital also has ISO certification from the International Organization for Standardization.
The facility specializes in oncology, bone marrow transplantation, and organ transplantation. Its organ transplant success rate is 90%. The hospital has a patient rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on over 300 reviews. 91% of patients recommend the facility.
Treatment Packages
Complete diagnostic packages start at $2,450. This includes consultation, PET-CT, and blood tests. A comprehensive evaluation with biopsy costs approximately $6,150. Treatment packages combining diagnostics and initial therapy range from $9,290 to $18,000.
Hospitalization costs $900 to $1,100 per day. This includes accommodation for one companion and meals for both. The stated prices are preliminary. Final costs may change based on doctor prescriptions and complications.
Patient Support Services
The hospital provides free airport transfers between the airport, clinic, and hotel. A Russian-speaking interpreter accompanies patients during their stay. Hotel booking assistance is available at no charge.
All medical reports are translated into English and Russian. The hospital arranges appointments and coordinates care between departments. For international patients, the team handles logistics from arrival to departure.
Contact Memorial Şişli Hospital to discuss your specific lung cancer case and receive a personalized treatment plan based on your medical records.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Pneumonectomy | $1200 |
| Brachytherapy | $4800 |
| Immunotherapy with Keytruda (Pembolizumab) | $12760 |
| Tomotherapy | $7150 |
| Lung cancer surgery | $10700 - $12500 |
| CyberKnife | $4750 - $6450 |
Israel: Innovation Hub
Israel ranks in the top 5 countries with the highest survival rate for lung cancer, surpassing the US by nearly 11.5%. For stage I lung cancer detected through screening, patients achieve 80% ten-year survival rates.
Why Israel stands out:
- AI-powered precision medicine. Israeli centers use artificial intelligence like I3LUNG to predict immunotherapy responses and create personalized treatment plans.
- Breakthrough research. Israeli researchers discovered that the drug Erbitux can completely shrink certain lung tumors without them returning. They have also developed ways to reprogram the immune system to kill cancer cells more effectively.
- Early detection. Israeli hospitals use liquid biopsy and low-radiation diagnostics that reduce exposure while detecting smaller tumors.
Treating lung cancer in Israel can be 40–60% less expensive than in the US. Here are some approximate estimates:
Treatment | Cost in Israel |
|---|---|
Lung surgery | |
Chemotherapy | |
Radiotherapy |
GET A PERSONALIZED PROGRAM
Best lung cancer hospitals in Israel
Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov), Tel Aviv
Israel's largest multidisciplinary medical facility; treats cancer in 40,000 patients annually.
☆ One of the Top 100 World's Best Hospitals 2025 (Newsweek).
☆ FoundationOne CDx test detects 324 cancer genes—available at only a few hospitals worldwide.
Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) in Tel Aviv, Israel, offers comprehensive lung cancer treatment. Consultations with oncologist Dr. Ari Raphael start at 750 USD. The center provides advanced diagnostics and personalized therapy plans for all lung cancer stages.
Diagnostic Services
The clinic offers a full diagnostic workup before finalizing treatment. PET FDG CT scans cost 1,620-1,680 USD. Brain MRI is available for 1,450-1,550 USD. Laboratory tests including complete blood count and tumor markers cost 210-310 USD.
Second opinion services include biopsy material review for 650-690 USD. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) testing is available at 4,370-4,970 USD. This helps identify specific mutations and unexpected therapeutic targets.
PD-L1 testing costs 890-1,240 USD. Echocardiography is priced at 490-590 USD. All examinations are performed by prior appointment only.
Dr. Ari Raphael – Lead Oncologist
Dr. Ari Raphael is a clinical oncologist with 7 years of experience since 2018. He serves as Medical Director of the oncology day hospital at Ichilov. Dr. Raphael is a senior physician in the lung cancer department.
He specializes in medical oncology for lung cancer. Dr. Raphael leads research in phase I-III clinical trials. His work includes intratumoral injections and genomic sequencing interpretation.
Dr. Raphael is a member of IASLC (International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer). He focuses on liquid biopsy and circulating tumor DNA analysis. His research includes T-cell receptor studies at Bar-Ilan University.
Treatment Options
The center offers surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapy. Treatment plans are individualized based on cancer type and stage. Day hospital chemotherapy sessions cost 950-1,150 USD per day.
The clinic uses Novalis TrueBeam STX linear accelerators for radiation. Minimally invasive thoracoscopic surgery is available for eligible patients. Robot-assisted Da Vinci surgery is used for mediastinal tumors.
Immunotherapy and biological therapy are administered in the day hospital. The center participates in clinical trials with CECOG, RTOG, and pharmaceutical companies. Experimental treatments require Israeli Ministry of Health approval.
Clinic Features
The lung cancer unit has extensive experience treating patients from worldwide. The center uses state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment. It is the first institution outside USA/Canada accepted into RTOG.
The clinic has Israel's first MRI simulator by Philips for radiotherapy planning. This provides clearer tumor imaging than CT alone. The system is FDA-approved for brain and pelvis tumors.
A medical coordinator accompanies patients throughout diagnostics and treatment. Russian-speaking representatives meet patients at Ben Gurion Airport. All services are coordinated through the Medical Tourism Department.
Remote Consultations
Video consultations with Dr. Ari Raphael are available for 750 USD. These second opinion consultations help determine treatment plans remotely. Patients must send all test results and medical reports before the consultation.
Radiologist consultations for CT/PET-CT review cost 750 USD. After review, experts present treatment options for patient decision. Additional tests may be recommended for clearer diagnosis.
Contact the Medical Tourism Department at +972-3-551-32-46 to schedule your consultation or diagnostic workup at Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
Hadassah Medical Center, Jerusalem
A comprehensive cancer center with over 150 doctors ranked among Forbes' best physicians.
☆ The first hospital to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.
☆ Hosts the first proton therapy center of its kind in the Middle East, minimizing damage to healthy lung tissue.
A Second Opinion remote consultation at Hadassah University Hospital in Jerusalem, Israel, costs $1,647. This includes a CT scan revision by a radiologist and a video consultation with an oncology specialist. The program provides expert review of your diagnosis and treatment plan without traveling to Israel.
The consultation is conducted by Dr. Yakir Rotenberg, a senior oncology specialist at Hadassah. He has 16 years of experience treating cancer patients. His main areas of expertise include lung cancer, kidney cancer, and bladder cancer. Dr. Rotenberg also specializes in geriatric oncology and palliative care.
Dr. Rotenberg holds a license from the Israeli Ministry of Health to prescribe medical cannabis. He invented the CureSign© device, which monitors how patients respond to cancer therapy. He has authored several patents related to cancer rehabilitation.
What the Program Includes
The $1,647 price covers several services. A radiologist reviews your CT scan images and provides a detailed report for $875. The remote consultation with Dr. Rotenberg costs $772. You also receive document review, specialist selection, and medical coordinator support at no extra charge.
Before your consultation, you must upload your CT scans to a file-sharing service. You then send the link to the clinic. A Russian-speaking medical coordinator will assist you during the video call. This interpretation service is included in the price.
After the consultation, you receive an official medical report in English. This document is provided at no additional cost. If you need the report in other languages, professional translation is available for an extra fee.
Optional Consultation
You can add a consultation with Prof. Uzi Izhar for $772. He is the Head of Thoracic Surgery at Hadassah with 29 years of experience. Prof. Izhar specializes in all types of chest surgery. This consultation is helpful if surgery is being considered as part of your treatment.
How to Schedule
The clinic schedules your consultation at the nearest available time. Your preferences are taken into account when booking. Payment must be received in full before the program begins. You can pay by bank transfer in USD or by credit card in NIS.
Hadassah's international department coordinates all services through Health Plus. The program gives you access to expert oncology opinions from one of Israel's leading medical centers. Contact the clinic to start your Second Opinion consultation and get clarity on your diagnosis and treatment options.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
South Korea: Technological Powerhouse
South Korea has doubled its lung cancer survival rates over the past two decades, thanks to high-tech diagnostics and modern therapies. For stage I lung cancer, the 5-year survival rate is 82%.
What makes South Korea stand out:
- Research leader. South Korea ranks in the top 5 countries for lung cancer research output, according to the Global Lung Cancer Coalition (GLCC).
- Advanced genomic testing. Korea’s Samsung Medical Center has created CancerSCAN technology that can detect over 500 gene mutations in a single test.
- Minimally invasive surgery. Korean surgeons lead in Da Vinci robotic surgery, video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS), and proton beam therapy. These techniques allow precise treatment with fewer complications and faster recovery.
Lung cancer treatment in South Korea can be 50%–80% more affordable than in the US, depending on the type. Here are some cost estimates:
Treatment | Cost in South Korea |
|---|---|
Surgery | $15,000–$33,000 |
Chemotherapy | $1,400–$4,000 |
Radiotherapy | $3,000–$25,000 |
Top lung cancer treatment centers in South Korea
Samsung Medical Center, Seoul
Asia's most comprehensive cancer center with “Hospital of Presidential Standards” status.
☆ 30th World's Best Hospital according to Newsweek.
☆ Offers proton beam therapy, Da Vinci robotic surgery, IGRT (image-guided radiation therapy), and Novalis radiosurgery.
☆ Runs in-house clinical trials through its Research Institute for Future Medicine, giving patients early access to treatments not yet available elsewhere.
A specialized Center for Lung Cancer operates based on the premises of Samsung hospital. It is headed by the Professor Keun Chil Park - Chief physician of the Oncohematology Department. The Center unites specialists from different departments: oncohematologists, thoracic surgeons, radiologists, pulmonologists. Here, more than 100 operations (video-assisted thoracic surgery) per year are performed on patients with early stage of lung cancer.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Da Vinci Robotic System | $15700 - $23000 |
| Chemotherapy for lung cancer | $540 - $1400 |
| Radiotherapy for lung cancer | $2400 - $25000 |
Severance Hospital, Seoul
One of Korea’s oldest and most trusted academic hospitals, serving 1.6 million patients annually.
☆ Ranked among the World’s 50 Best Hospitals by Newsweek.
☆ Certified by JCI and affiliated with MD Anderson and Johns Hopkins
☆ Advanced treatment strategies include IMRT, radiosurgery, tomotherapy, hyperthermia, and minimally invasive lung surgery.
Severance Center is considered one of the best lung cancer treatment centers in Korea. Specialists conduct the complete examination of a patient to develop the most effective treatment plan. The diagnostics takes approximately 5-7 days. The procedure is performed on out- and inpatient basis.
After the detection of tumor size and level of metastatic spread, doctors assign treatment plan. In most of the cases, they apply combination therapy which consists of surgery, chemo- and radiotherapies.
The duration of lung cancer treatment is individual.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Lung segmentectomy | $15000 - $25000 |
| Lung cancer surgery | $25000 - $35000 |
| Chemotherapy for lung cancer | $1500 - $4000 |
| Da Vinci Robotic System | $16000 - $23000 |
Spain: Research-Driven Patient Care
Spain is one of the EU’s leaders in lung cancer research. Patients in major urban cancer centers achieve an 80% ten-year survival rate when cancer is caught early.
Why Spain stands out:
- Research excellence. The Spanish Lung Cancer Group (GECP) is one of the first and most active research networks in Europe. It has conducted over 130 clinical trials and helped establish new standards like combining immunotherapy with chemotherapy for advanced cases.
- Comprehensive national guidelines. Detailed protocols from the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM) ensure access to targeted therapies and immunotherapy matched to each patient's genetic profile.
- Access to innovation. Through institutions like the Spanish National Cancer Research Center (CNIO), patients gain early access to new drugs, liquid biopsies, and immunotherapy combinations.
On average, treatment in Spain is around 40%–60% cheaper than in the US. Here are some estimated costs for lung cancer programs in Spain:
GET A COST ESTIMATE
Lung cancer treatment | Cost in Spain |
|---|---|
Minimally invasive surgery | |
Radiation therapy | |
Chemotherapy | |
Immune therapy treatment |
Best lung cancer hospitals in Spain
Teknon Medical Center, Barcelona
As one of Spain’s top-rated private hospitals, Teknon serves high-profile patients, including celebrities and Olympic athletes.
☆ Accredited by JCI and EFQM for meeting international benchmarks for quality and safety.
☆ Ranked among Spain’s Top 20 Hospitals (Newsweek).
☆ Offers Novalis radiosurgery and Da Vinci robotic surgery.
☆ Team includes 400+ medical professionals, with many listed in Forbes Spain’s Top 100 doctors.
Centro Médico Teknon in Barcelona, Spain offers lung cancer treatment with immunotherapy starting from €4,500–€8,500. The clinic is JCI-accredited and led by Dr. Ivana Gabriela Sullivan, who has 9 years of experience treating lung and chest cancers. The price includes day hospital services, laboratory tests, and oncologist consultations.
Dr. Sullivan specializes in thoracic tumors and personalized cancer care. She has performed over 900 procedures and authored more than 50 scientific publications. Her treatment approach combines immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and chemotherapy based on each patient's needs. She is an Associate Professor at Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona and a member of ESMO and ASCO.
Treatment Process
The clinic recommends starting with an online consultation for €595. During this consultation, Dr. Sullivan reviews your medical records and imaging results. She discusses your current treatment regimen and suggests adjustments if needed. You receive an official medical report after the consultation.
The immunotherapy program includes all infusion sessions at the day hospital. Control blood tests monitor your response to treatment. Regular follow-up consultations ensure the therapy remains effective. The final treatment scope may vary based on your specific medical condition.
Additional Services
Teknon also offers HIPEC (heated chemotherapy) for peritoneal metastases at €10,000. This includes cytoreductive surgery, the heated chemotherapy circulation, and post-operative care. Dr. Domenico Sabia performs this procedure using advanced techniques. The HIPEC session takes 1–1.5 hours.
For lung metastases, stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) costs €16,000–€25,000. This outpatient treatment targets tumors precisely with minimal damage to healthy tissue. Additional diagnostics like PET-CT (€1,200–€2,000) or brain MRI (€800–€1,200) may be recommended.
The clinic has a 4.7 rating from over 400 patients. 94% recommend it to others. The international department provides full support in English, including coordination and follow-up care.
Contact Teknon to discuss your lung cancer treatment options and schedule your consultation with Dr. Sullivan.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
| Radiotherapy for lung cancer | $18779.64 - $21127.1 |
| Proton-beam therapy | $29343.19 - $52817.74 |
| CyberKnife | $11737.28 - $21127.1 |
| Lobectomy | $41080.47 - $52817.74 |
| Lung segmentectomy | $52817.74 - $64555.02 |
| Chemotherapy for lung cancer | $2934.32 - $4108.05 |
| Da Vinci Robotic System | $22300.82 - $25822.01 |
| Lung cancer surgery | $52817.74 - $64555.02 |
| Immunotherapy for lung cancer | $4108.05 - $6455.5 |
Quirónsalud Hospital, Barcelona
Part of Spain's largest medical group with the specialized Baselga Institute of Oncology and close ties to top US cancer centers.
☆ Accredited by JCI and ranked in Spain’s Top 15 Hospitals (Newsweek)
☆ Equipped with linear accelerators, 3T MRI scanners, and PET-CT for precise lung cancer diagnosis.
☆ Performs robot-assisted surgeries.
☆ Offers luxury accommodations (suites and royal apartments), full concierge services, and airport transfers for international patients.
- Recognized for its collaboration with American oncological centers, this clinic offers progressive lung cancer research and treatment.
- Lung cancer treatment includes surgical interventions, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy options.
- Under the management of Dr. Enriqueta Felip, a reputable oncologist with a focus on thoracic malignancies.
- Dr. Felip brings experience from Vall d'Hebron Hospital, is an ESMO award winner, and has numerous publications and leadership roles in oncology.
- The Baselga Institute of Oncology within the clinic provides a specialized focus on various oncological disciplines, including lung cancer.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Austria: EU Leader in Survival Rates and Diagnostics
In the EU, Austria has the highest life expectancy for lung cancer thanks to advanced diagnostics and minimal wait times. Five-year survival rates for patients with stage I disease reach up to 92%, among the highest in the EU.
Why Austria stands out:
- Strict quality control. The Austrian Lung Cancer Audit (ALCA) monitors how well hospitals follow national care standards. Leading expert groups like the Austrian Lung Cancer Group and the Austrian Society of Pathology help shape the latest guidelines and keep care consistent across the country.
- High-tech diagnostics. Austria exceeds EU averages in advanced imaging, with more MRI, PET, and CT scanners per capita.
- Specialized network. Austria uses a three-tier system with comprehensive centers, regional specialty centers, and local certified centers. Lung cancer patients get the right level of care within 1–2 hours.
- Digital health leadership. Austria is expanding telemedicine and fast-track diagnostics to reduce wait times. Oncology teams use virtual tumor boards and digital tools to streamline care.
Austria offers innovative treatments at prices 40%–60% lower than in the US:
Medical treatment | Cost in Austria |
|---|---|
Surgery | |
Chemotherapy | |
Radiotherapy | |
Immunotherapy |
Top lung cancer center in Austria
Wiener Privatklinik, Vienna
A historic private hospital combining world-class care with academic prestige.
☆ ISO-certified and ranked in Austria’s Top 25 hospitals by Newsweek.
☆ Named Austria’s best private hospital by the Austrian Insurance Association.
☆ Employed 7 Nobel Prize winners, including Sigmund Freud and immunologist Karl Landsteiner.
Wiener Privatklinik in Vienna, Austria offers lung cancer diagnostics and consultations. The oncologist consultation costs EUR 400. A comprehensive diagnostic package is available for EUR 6,500. Prof. Christoph Zielinski, one of Europe's leading oncologists, conducts the consultations.
The clinic is a multidisciplinary hospital affiliated with the Medical University of Vienna. It specializes in oncology, orthopedics, and cardiovascular surgery. The facility holds ISO certification and has a 4.6 rating from 119 patient reviews. 88% of patients recommend the clinic to others.
Consultation Service
The EUR 400 consultation includes an evaluation by Prof. Christoph Zielinski. He heads the Oncology Department at the clinic. The professor has performed approximately 1,100 procedures. He serves as President of the Central European Cooperative Oncology Group (CECOG). Prof. Zielinski has published over 600 scientific papers on cancer treatment.
Comprehensive Diagnostic Package
The EUR 6,500 diagnostic program provides a complete evaluation. It includes consultations with both an oncologist and a surgeon. The package covers essential imaging studies and laboratory tests.
- Consultation with oncologist
- Consultation with surgeon
- Blood tests including tumor markers
- CT scan of the chest
- PET/CT scan
After completing the diagnostics, doctors create an individual treatment plan. They provide cost estimates based on the test results. This personalized approach helps patients understand their options clearly.
Medical Expertise
Prof. Zielinski leads the oncology department at the Medical University of Vienna. He edits the German edition of Clinical Oncology journal. His research contributions have shaped cancer treatment protocols across Europe. The clinic works with leading Austrian professors. Seven Nobel laureates, including Sigmund Freud, have practiced at this facility historically.
The diagnostic program helps patients get accurate information about their condition. It provides a foundation for making informed treatment decisions. Contact the clinic to schedule your consultation or diagnostic package.
Hospital certificates and accreditation of quality
Latest review
Conclusion: Choosing Among the Best Lung Cancer Treatment Centers in the World
Ultimately, the best choice comes down to your budget, medical needs, and how soon you need care.
➯ For world-class care under strict medical standards, Germany and Austria provide exceptional patient outcomes through regulated, multidisciplinary systems.
➯ Looking for world-class care at significantly lower costs? Turkey offers up to 85% savings.
➯ If you're looking for the latest technology and innovative therapies, Israel, South Korea, and Spain are the main contenders.
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All medical content on this page is prepared by authors with specialized medical education and reviewed by certified physicians in the relevant field. Medical review by Yesim Yildirim, Clinical oncologist.
Last updated: August 15, 2025.
- Statistics: Figures are based on Bookimed’s internal database December 2025, which includes analysis of 12,450 patient requests across 11 accredited clinics in Germany.
- Pricing: Cost information is provided directly by Bookimed’s partner clinics and updated regularly to reflect current 2025 market conditions. Actual expenses may differ depending on case complexity, surgeon expertise, and clinic location.
- Clinical Data: Treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction figures are collected from Bookimed’s verified clinic database and supported by data from peer-reviewed medical sources such as PubMed, The Lancet, JAMA, and NEJM (2023–2025).
All data is provided for general informational purposes and may not represent individual results or experiences.
- Deutsches Ärzteblatt International. (2023). Lung Cancer Screening With Low-Dose Computed Tomography. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10433361/
- Cancer Research and Treatment. (2023). Five-Year Overall Survival and Prognostic Factors in Patients with Lung Cancer: Results from the Korean Association of Lung Cancer Registry (KALC-R). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35790197/
- Global Lung Cancer Coalition. (2020). The state of global lung cancer research. https://www.lungcancercoalition.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/State-of-global-lung-cancer-research-2020.pdf
- Archivos de Bronconeumología. (2022). Lung Cancer Screening: Survival in an Extensive Early Detection Program in Spain (I-ELCAP). https://www.archbronconeumol.org/es-lung-cancer-screening-survival-articulo-S0300289622002976
- Cancers. (2024). Real-World Treatment Patterns and Timeliness of Clinical Care Pathway for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients in Austria: The PRATER Retrospective Study. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6694/16/14/2586