Treatment Availability
Does Duke Health treat my condition?
Please use the Duke Health Find a Doctor tool. Use these links to see a list of pediatric and adult conditions treated at Duke Health:
Do I need a referral from a physician?
A referral from a physician is not required for international patients. However, if you are being referred by a physician, it is helpful to include the referral note and all supporting documents as part of the medical records submitted for review.
Will my Duke Health doctors communicate with the doctors in my own country?
Duke Health providers will happily communicate with the doctors in your own country to ensure a continuum of care when necessary. Additionally, Duke International Patient Services will provide you with a copy of your medical records –if requested— upon conclusion of your treatment episode.
Can I be treated by a male/female doctor?
While we do our best to honor your special requests, in some circumstances, we may not have available providers that meet your gender preference.
If I need care from another specialist, can that be accommodated during the same visit?
International Patient Services will coordinate additional services if needed. However, a new agreement and financial clearance may be necessary for the added services.
Does Duke Health offer remote second opinion?
Currently, Duke Health does not offer remote second opinions for international patients.
Preparing for Your Trip
What specific services does Duke Health offer traveling patients?
International Patient Services assists with the following:
- Processing and reviewing referral requests
- Scheduling initial appointments
- Provide supporting documents for visa applications
- Assist with lodging arrangements
- Connect patients and families with available community resources to meet cultural and religious needs.
- Provide language services for Limited-English-Proficient patients
- Coordinate follow-up care if additional services are required.
- Upon conclusion of treatment, Duke Health International Patient Services provides logistical support to ensure the continuum of care.
Does Duke Health assist with booking my travel?
While we can't assist with booking your travel, our staff members will assist with local lodging and transportation arrangements.
How do I get a copy of my schedule?
International Patient Services will provide all the necessary details once your appointment(s) are scheduled.
What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
Please arrive at your first appointment with a government-issued identification document and your appointment confirmation letter from International Patient Services.
Will I have an assigned interpreter for my entire stay?
International Patient Services is committed to providing language assistance to all Limited English Proficient patients through interpreters (in-person, over the phone, or video) at no cost to the patient.
Is there a mosque or chapel in the hospital or nearby?
Duke Health has a multi-faith chapel on the first floor of Duke Medicine Pavilion. International Patient Services staff will also provide you with additional information on places of worship in the community.
Financial Services
Can Duke Health give me an estimate for my treatment?
If your referral is accepted by a Duke Health provider, you will receive a letter of agreement outlining planned services and the anticipated cost.
When do I need to pay for my treatment?
If you do not have commercial insurance and you are not being sponsored by your government, you are considered “self-pay”. Self-pay patients must pay the cost of treatment in full before being scheduled for care.
Does Duke Health offer financial assistance for international patients?
International patients are not eligible for financial assistance or charity care.
What methods of payment do you accept?
International patients use wire transfers to pre-pay for services.
Does Duke Health accept international insurance?
Duke Health will accept international insurance that is in-network and has covered benefits.