Use ReTHUS as the first check
Colombia's Ministry of Health describes ReTHUS as the national system recording health professionals who meet requirements to practice, with public verification available. Ask the clinic for the surgeon's full legal name and search the registry yourself rather than relying on a screenshot supplied by a salesperson.
Match the surgeon to the operation
Orthopedics contains many subspecialties: joint replacement, sports medicine, shoulder and elbow, spine, hand, foot and ankle, trauma, and others. Ask how often the surgeon performs the specific operation being proposed and whether their routine practice resembles your case.
Confirm the facility
Ask where the surgery will occur and whether the surgeon has privileges there. Research the facility independently. Ask about anesthesia, emergency support, infection-prevention processes, and how unexpected admission is handled.
Evaluate the consultation, not the sales process
A strong consultation should explain diagnosis, alternatives, expected benefits, material risks, recovery, and uncertainty. Be cautious when the interaction is dominated by payment deadlines, package upgrades, or assurances that minimize complications.
Ask about follow-up before discussing flights
Who sees you after discharge? How many local follow-ups are expected? Who answers urgent questions after hours? Will the surgeon review imaging remotely after you return home? Those answers are part of the provider decision.
Get names and promises in writing
Keep the treatment plan, quote, refund terms, facility name, implant plan when applicable, and follow-up commitments in writing. If a coordinator makes a material promise, ask that it be included in the formal plan rather than relying on a chat message alone.
Want help comparing Colombia orthopedic options?
Send the procedure you are considering, the city you prefer if you have one, and whether you already have imaging. We can help you organize the questions for an itemized provider quote.
Message on WhatsAppQuestions to send before you pay a deposit
- What is the surgeon's full legal name and exact specialty?
- At which hospital or surgical facility will the procedure occur?
- What diagnosis and records are being used to recommend this procedure?
- What implant, graft, or hardware is expected, if any?
- What is included and excluded from the written quote?
- How many in-person follow-up visits are expected before travel?
- Who manages rehabilitation after you return home?
- What symptoms or complications would delay your flight?