Physiotherapy and Health Tourism in Medellín

Interview with Luz Restrepo:

Interviewer (Turismo y Salud Medellín): Today we’re talking with Luz Restrepo, a physiotherapist recognized for her holistic approach, excellent Google reviews, and a growing number of international patients. Welcome, Luz!

Luz Restrepo: Thank you! It’s a pleasure to be here.

The Rise of Health Tourism in Medellín

Interviewer: Why do you think Medellín is attracting more patients for health treatments — and why physiotherapy in particular?

Luz Restrepo: I think there are three main reasons. First, the decline in violence has boosted tourism in Medellín, now recognized as a top destination. Second, treatments here are more affordable for foreign patients. And third, the high quality of healthcare services in Colombia, especially in Medellín, with top-level professionals and institutions. I also believe that the availability of physiotherapists in Medellín is higher than in other Colombian cities, making it easier for foreign patients to find a trustworthy professional.

Attracting International Patients

Interviewer: How do foreign patients find you?

Luz Restrepo: My Google Business profile has been key for visibility on Google searches, along with a well-optimized website. In addition, positive patient testimonials generate trust among new visitors.

Common Conditions in Patients

Interviewer: What are the most common issues you treat in international patients?

Luz Restrepo: We mostly treat lower back pain and neck pain, among other conditions, using techniques such as myofascial release, therapeutic massage, ultrasound, laser therapy, and comprehensive physical therapy. Sometimes we recommend MRI scans to confirm certain pathologies.

Nationalities of Your Patients

Interviewer: What are the most common nationalities of your patients?

Luz Restrepo: I’ve treated patients from Israel, the U.S., Spain, Argentina, the Canary Islands, Peru, Brazil, Germany, and England, as well as Colombians living abroad who choose virtual therapy.

Balancing Local and International Patients

Interviewer: How do you manage both Colombian and international patients?

Luz Restrepo: I offer the same quality to everyone, with equal prices. However, foreigners, due to the strength of their currencies, more easily access advanced and more expensive equipment such as magnetotherapy, hyperbaric chamber, laser, and acupuncture. These options are available to both groups.

International Payments

Interviewer: Have you faced any issues with international payments?

Luz Restrepo: At first, some wanted to pay by credit card, but I only accepted cash. Now I use BOLD card readers and Wompi for electronic payments, although cash is still an option when needed.

Patient Retention

Interviewer: Do international patients return or usually come just once?

Luz Restrepo: It depends on how long they stay. Those who live here or stay for several months usually buy packages of five or ten sessions. Others, who are just passing through, come once. Some have also referred new patients, which generates more appointments.

Communication with Foreign Patients

Interviewer: How is your relationship with them, and how do you handle the language barrier?

Luz Restrepo: They’ve always been respectful and kind, and I respond the same way. My English is intermediate, which can cause small difficulties, but we manage to understand each other. A good command of English is key.

Strategies for Growth

Interviewer: What are your plans to attract more international patients?

Luz Restrepo: First, improve my English. Second, translate my website into English. Third, advertise in other countries to reach foreigners and Colombians abroad who need physiotherapy.

What Makes Luz Restrepo’s Physiotherapy Unique

Interviewer: What makes you stand out from other physiotherapists in Medellín?

Luz Restrepo: My personalized and holistic approach. Unlike generic treatments in some clinics, I offer therapies tailored to each patient using tools such as myofascial release, physical therapy, therapeutic massage, ultrasound, laser, acupuncture, hyperbaric chamber, and lymphatic drainage. This ensures better results.
Also, I’m fully committed to my patients’ well-being and always strive to find the best solution for their problems.

Advice for Other Professionals

Interviewer: What do you recommend to other healthcare professionals who want to attract more patients?

Luz Restrepo: Learn English, develop a digital strategy with a good Google Business profile and an optimized website, stay active on social media with valuable content, and invest in digital advertising with a solid strategy.

Where to Find Luz

Interviewer: Where can patients contact you?

Luz Restrepo: I work in Envigado, at the Centro Oncológico de Antioquia, Avenida Las Vegas, 13th floor, office 1317. You can find me on Google Business as Fisioterapia Medellín and on Instagram, as well as on my website fisioterapiamedellin.com.co.

Interviewer: Would you like to share any special service you offer?

Luz Restrepo: Yes, I offer home physiotherapy services, which are very convenient and offer many advantages for patients.
Home Physiotherapy

Interviewer: Thank you, Luz, it’s been a pleasure to interview you!

Luz Restrepo: Thank you for the opportunity!

Physiotherapy and Health Tourism in Medellín