The Most Affordable Health Scan in America?
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Editor’s Note: This article is based on personal experience, independent research, and firsthand observations. Some experiences or products featured may be gifted or discounted for the purpose of review, but we select providers and experiences independently. We are not medical professionals, and nothing shared here should be taken as medical advice. Some links in this article may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you choose to book or purchase through them. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps support our independent reporting.
We flew to Türkiye for full-body checkups, and it turned out to be one of the best things I’ve ever done for my health and my bank account.
After tallying up all the tests, scans, and specialist visits included in our packages, we realized doing the same thing in the U.S. would have cost over $30,000 and taken months to coordinate. But in Türkiye? We got it all done in just a few days for a price that was honestly jaw-dropping.
I’m so used to U.S. “checkups” where they weigh you, listen to your heart, and send you on your way. I had never experienced a real checkup until this. Not only did we walk away with a deeper understanding of our health, but we also uncovered some easily fixable issues we’d been struggling with and finally found peace of mind we didn’t know we were missing.
It went so well, I’m actually bringing my parents back this summer for their own full-body checkups!
Now let’s get into the prices, the process, and how we planned a vacation around getting full-body checkups in Türkiye.
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How I Found This Checkup: The Research Process
As someone who’s made it their mission to track down the best health, beauty, and wellness experiences around the world, I spend a lot of time on research. So when my boyfriend and I decided to visit this hospital for full-body checkups last year, it was after carefully weighing all of our options.
Once I knew I wanted to do a full-body checkup abroad, I focused my search on Türkiye. I’d already had great experiences there during past trips for hair extensions and aesthetic treatments, so I knew it was a strong contender.
I created a spreadsheet of every major hospital in Türkiye and started comparing them. In the end, I chose Memorial Hospital because of its excellent reviews and international JCI accreditation, which is a global gold standard for patient safety and quality of care. The fact that it ended up being the fanciest hospital I’ve ever stepped foot in, complete with its own on-site restaurant, was just the cherry on top.
The Prices
This hospital offers over a dozen checkup package options, ranging from pediatric screenings to the premium 3-day package my boyfriend chose. Prices have increased slightly since our visit last year, but they’ve also added more appointments and tests to the packages, making them even more thorough and still an incredible value compared to what you'd pay in the United States.
The checkup I did costs $1,100, and is now called the Essential Woman Checkup (formerly the VIP Checkup). They’ve removed the dental examination from the package, and the bone density scan is now only performed if a doctor recommends it. If it’s not needed, they’ll deduct $250 from the total price, which I think is a smart and patient-friendly update.
Here’s everything it includes:
Cody opted for the 3-day Premium Male Checkup (it used to be called the Comprehensive Male Checkup), which now costs $3,750.
Since he did it, they’ve made the package even more comprehensive by adding a dental examination, ophthalmology exam, and thyroid CT scan. They’ve also removed the Coronary CT Angiography from the standard package to reduce radiation exposure, which we appreciated. It still includes a colonoscopy, endoscopy, multiple specialist appointments, advanced lab work, and full-body imaging, so if you're someone who wants the most complete snapshot of your health possible, this is the one to consider.
Here’s everything the 3-day checkup includes:
Since our visit, they’ve also introduced a new Advanced Checkup package, a great middle option for people who want more than the essentials but don’t need invasive procedures like a colonoscopy or biopsy.
It includes many of the same blood tests and imaging scans as the premium version, just without the GI procedures, and costs $2,200 USD.
They also offer targeted checkup packages for women over 40, men over 40, cardiology-specific screenings, and even detailed pediatric exams. Pricing for these ranges from $300 to $1,650, depending on the package.
For Americans, the value here is honestly mind-blowing. Just for context, the colonoscopy and endoscopy with sedation included in the Premium Checkup alone could cost over $5,000 in the U.S. without insurance. That’s not even factoring in the imaging, blood panels, or the multiple doctor consultations that are bundled in here.
Each checkup package also comes with thoughtful extras: a personal translator and coordinator who stays with you throughout your hospital visit, airport pickup and drop-off, and transportation between your hotel and the hospital.
Here’s what else is included:
If a trip to Türkiye isn't something in the cards this year, we recently tested out an an affordable health check in America that includes 160+ lab tests and an AI-powered body scan for $998.
We wrote a full article about our experience with Function Health here.
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The Process
Getting a full-body checkup abroad might sound overwhelming at first, but the entire process was surprisingly seamless. From booking to transportation to test day, every detail was thoughtfully coordinated, which made the experience smooth and stress-free.
Booking an Appointment
To schedule your appointment or ask questions, this inquiry form on their website is for international patients and will put you directly in touch with the hospital. They can also assist with booking additional services beyond the checkup packages.
We also put together a list of some of the other treatments and prices they offer here.
While it’s always a good idea to book in advance, we were actually able to get appointments the same week when we went. Availability can vary, but last-minute bookings are often possible.
To confirm your appointment, the hospital typically requires a deposit and a photo of your passport. The exact amount may vary depending on the package you choose, so it’s best to check with the hospital coordinator when booking.
Side note: I used to find the passport request a little odd, but it’s totally standard. I’ve been asked for it in France, Germany, and Türkiye, and many international hotels will also request a passport copy upon check-in.
Consultation (If Necessary)
A virtual consultation usually isn’t required for the standard checkup packages, but if you’d like to speak with a doctor in advance—or if a physician recommends it based on your medical history, the hospital can easily arrange one for you. It's completely optional, but available if you want added peace of mind before your trip.
Planning and Booking Travel
I’ve written a full guide on how I plan my trips to Türkiye, including where to find the best deals on flights and places to stay. If you prefer not to make travel arrangements yourself, the hospital offers hotel package add-ons to make things easier.
Arrival
Pickup from the airport is included with all checkup packages. Memorial even has a hospital desk at Istanbul Airport (IST) to assist with arrivals and coordinate your free transportation to your hotel. If you're flying into a different airport or arriving from another city, it’s best to let your coordinator know in advance so they can make the proper arrangements.
Appointment Day
On the day of your checkup, a driver will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the hospital. You’ll be greeted by your translator and coordinator, who will be assisting you throughout the day and guide you from appointment to appointment.
Pro tip: These checkups are extremely thorough, so expect a full day. You’ll be doing a lot, and moving between departments, so wear something comfortable and be ready to keep a good pace.
How Scheduling Works
Unlike in the U.S., Canada, or the U.K., this hospital doesn’t rely on months of scheduling in advance. Instead, your coordinator organizes everything in real time. You’ll be guided to each test, scan, and specialist as availability opens up that day.
It’s totally normal to see your coordinator calling departments and adjusting your schedule on the fly. Some appointments may be back-to-back, while others involve some wait time. It’s all part of how they fit so much into a single day.
Meals and Breaks
There’s a great restaurant on-site where you can have lunch, as well as two coffee shops and a snack counter with light food and drinks. These are perfect for breaks between appointments.
Receiving Results
One of the most impressive parts of this experience is how quickly you start getting answers. Throughout the day, you’ll meet with specialists who go over your test results, sometimes just hours after the tests are completed.
For example, when they took my blood in the morning, my internal medicine doctor already had the results ready to discuss by the afternoon. This kind of same-day feedback is a major contrast to what I’ve experienced in the U.S.
After your appointment, you’ll receive a set of medical documents translated into English. There’s a lot of detailed information to go through, so it can take a couple of weeks to receive everything.
Tips
- On rare occasions, the larger checkup packages may require an additional day. Try not to schedule your appointment for the very last day of your trip, just in case.
- Make a list of any health questions or concerns ahead of time. The day can be fast-paced and full of appointments, so it’s easy to forget things you wanted to bring up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if they find something?
If they find something that requires additional testing or even surgery, they told us they can usually get you in the same day or the next day. Unlike the long waiting periods in the U.S., most treatments and appointments here can be scheduled and completed almost immediately.
We were able to add on a dermatologist skin screening during our stay, and they got us in the next day. We've also heard from multiple people who discovered serious health issues during their Memorial checkups, including tumors that were tested and removed within the same week.
Can they write prescriptions?
Yes! I was prescribed a series of B12 shots during my appointment, which I was able to complete while still in Türkiye. Cody was also prescribed medication for his colonoscopy, and the hospital arranged to have it delivered right to us on-site.
If you’re given a prescription, it’s worth asking whether it can be delivered to the hospital. If not, don’t worry, pharmacies are everywhere in Istanbul, and Türkiye has some of the most affordable medication prices in the world.
Just be aware of U.S. regulations on bringing prescription medications back home. You can usually bring back a 90-day supply, but it’s always smart to double-check.
Pro tip: Traveling abroad to stock up on affordable medications is actually very common.
Can I take these test results back to my doctor at home?
Yes, but here’s what to expect. These checkups are meant to catch things early, especially issues you may not have known about. My U.S. doctor had no issue reviewing my results from Türkiye. That said, if something is found that requires further treatment back home, you’ll likely need to retest.
No responsible doctor is going to operate based on a scan they didn’t perform themselves. But the value lies in catching something you otherwise might have missed. You can then bring that information to your physician and decide on next steps.
During our checkups, we asked several Memorial doctors about this. They told us that if anything serious is found, they’re happy to communicate directly with your doctor at home to share what was discovered.
What happens if something goes wrong?
This is one of the most important aspects to consider when traveling for medical care. While millions of people travel abroad every year for treatments, it's essential to be aware of a few key points. First, your U.S. health insurance likely won’t cover you outside the country, so it’s a good idea to contact your insurer ahead of time to ask about coverage for emergencies. Some insurers offer international medical coverage, but it’s crucial to clarify what’s included in case something unexpected happens.
In most cases, receiving care abroad means you won’t have the same legal protections that we have in the U.S. For example, if something goes wrong, pursuing legal action or malpractice claims can be more complex in another country.
That said, the reality is that healthcare systems in many countries, including Türkiye, have stringent standards and high-quality care. We’re constantly finding that hospitals and clinics abroad often exceed expectations in terms of safety and treatment. The key is doing your homework. Researching providers, understanding the risks, and knowing how to get in touch with international medical support if needed.
Does this take away from healthcare access for Turkish citizens?
Türkiye’s public healthcare system is excellent. Every Turkish citizen I’ve spoken with has said that their government covers all medical treatment and that public hospitals offer high-quality care.
When I posted about our checkup experience on social media, I received tons of comments from Turkish citizens saying that these same checkups are standard care for them.
In fact, the country has an entire Health Tourism Board that actively promotes international medical visitors as a way to support their tourism economy, not drain local resources.
What about doctors’ training and credentials?
If you have questions about a doctor’s background, you can reach out to Memorial Hospital directly and ask for their credentials. Their team is used to working with international patients and is happy to share information about a doctor’s education, training, and areas of expertise.
Many doctors in Türkiye have trained at leading institutions across Europe and the U.S., and some have completed parts of their education or specialized training abroad. It’s common to find physicians who are affiliated with international medical boards and familiar with global standards of care.
What does JCI accreditation mean?
JCI stands for Joint Commission International, and it’s considered the gold standard for global healthcare quality and patient safety. Hospitals that are JCI-accredited have gone through a rigorous evaluation process to make sure they meet the highest international standards for things like cleanliness, patient care, safety protocols, staff training, and facility management.
Think of it like a global stamp of approval that shows a hospital is operating at a level that’s recognized and respected worldwide.
Memorial Hospital is JCI-accredited, which was one of the main reasons we felt confident choosing it for our checkups. It means their systems, protocols, and quality of care have been vetted by one of the most respected health oversight organizations in the world.
Our Results
We’re fortunate to feel relatively healthy most of the time, but that doesn’t mean we always feel our best. I came prepared with a list of questions about my health, and I finally felt like I got some real answers. They caught that my B12 levels were shockingly low; I was at 48, when they should be at least 300. They immediately prescribed a series of B12 injections that I was able to start during my visit.
The body composition scan also revealed that I have osteopenia, which is an early sign of osteoporosis. It’s something I never would have known otherwise, but now that I do, I can take steps to manage it.
A visit to the ophthalmologist showed that I need glasses, and I was also able to get reassurance about an old rib injury thanks to an abdominal ultrasound.
Besides learning these important things about my body, there were also a few unexpectedly meaningful moments, like when the gynecologist handed me a printed photo of my uterus (fascinating), or getting to see and hear my heartbeat during the echocardiogram.
For Cody, this trip was about peace of mind. He has a family history of cancer and used to be a smoker, so he came in with understandable anxiety. Being able to get blood tests for cancer markers, a cranial MRI, and detailed scans of his chest helped ease a lot of the fears he had been carrying around for years.
We both left the hospital feeling relieved, informed, and most importantly, like we had answers. I never imagined a visit to the hospital could be a positive experience, but this was truly one of the most empowering things we’ve ever done for our health.
Messages We’ve Received
Since sharing our experience on social media, we’ve received countless messages from people who’ve had their own checkups at Memorial, and the stories have been incredible.
Final Thoughts
This experience truly changed how I think about my health. I’ve never felt so thoroughly checked, listened to, or taken care of at a medical facility.
That said, I want to be honest. I can’t promise that a full-body checkup is going to solve everything or magically fix how you feel. There are still hiccups that come with doing this abroad. In the middle of Istanbul’s traffic, your transport might show up late. You may end up waiting longer than expected between appointments. And if you’re anything like Cody, you might finish the colonoscopy prep and decide that’s not something you’d like to do again anytime soon.
But even with all of that, this checkup was still miles beyond anything we’ve experienced back in the U.S. It was detailed, personalized, and actually focused on catching things early, which is something our own system often disregards entirely.
I’m still not sure why preventative care isn’t prioritized in the U.S. the way it is in other countries. But now that we’ve done this, we’re not looking back. If something is wrong, I want to know. If nothing is wrong, I want to keep it that way. And I finally feel like we have a real understanding of where our health stands.
These checkups were part of an entire health and beauty trip we took to Türkiye, and you can check out our full itinerary with treatments and prices here.
Disclosure: This article is based on personal experience, independent research, and firsthand observations. We are not medical professionals, and this content is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnose conditions, or recommend specific treatments. Every person’s health situation is different, and outcomes can vary. If you are considering any medical or cosmetic procedure, whether at home or abroad, please consult with a licensed healthcare provider or specialist to determine what is appropriate for your individual needs. All information shared here is intended for general informational purposes only.
