With recent turmoil in other countries, consumers might be nervous about traveling abroad for medical treatment.

But medical travel, sometimes called medical tourism, can be a huge money saver for quality surgical procedures. It can be a wise choice, especially in recessionary times.

But it's not a decision to make lightly.

"It is clear that geopolitical forces are a factor in medical travel and add to the complexity," said Dr. Steven Tucker, president of the International Medical Travel Association. "Let's not forget it is always better to be treated at home, but currently some people feel that is not an option due to cost."