🚨 Clinic Red Flags & Scam Prevention Checklist

Medical tourism scams often hide behind glossy websites, too-good-to-be-true prices, and vague staff bios. Before you send money or board a plane, use this checklist to spot warning signs and protect your health, identity, and finances.

🔍 This checklist pairs with our Facility & Surgeon Safety Checklist to help you vet clinics and avoid dangerous decisions.

⚠️ Step 1: Website & Online Presence Red Flags

• ❌ No physical address or vague location info
• ❌ No mention of doctors or credentials on staff page
• ❌ Website copy filled with generic promises or superlatives
• ❌ Stock images used instead of real patient results or facility photos
• ❌ Broken links, outdated blogs, or missing contact forms

⚠️ Step 2: Communication Red Flags

• ❌ No clear point of contact or named coordinator
• ❌ Avoidance when asked for medical licenses or insurance details
• ❌ Pressure tactics to book “limited spots” or send deposits immediately
• ❌ Poor English, vague responses, or inconsistent communication
• ❌ No video consultations offered before booking

⚠️ Step 3: Payment & Guarantee Red Flags

• ❌ Only accepts Western Union, crypto, or cash transfer payments
• ❌ No clear refund or revision policy available in writing
• ❌ Quotes that don’t include itemized breakdowns
• ❌ Payment required before receiving medical evaluation

⚠️ Step 4: Reputation & Review Red Flags

• ❌ Reviews only found on the clinic’s own website
• ❌ Identical review language across platforms
• ❌ No video testimonials or dated feedback
• ❌ Cannot find clinic mentioned on Reddit, YouTube, or forums

🚫 Walk Away If You See This

• ❌ They won’t confirm your surgeon by name
• ❌ The “coordinator” gets defensive when you ask hard questions
• ❌ No clear policies in English for what happens if something goes wrong
• ❌ You feel rushed, pressured, or guilted into booking