The short answer
Many British patients look abroad because stem cell treatments for joints, pain and wellness are mostly unavailable on the NHS outside clinical trials. In Colombia, some regenerative treatments are offered under medical supervision. Evidence varies by condition and results are not guaranteed. Start with a free video consultation in English and bring your UK records.
Explore by concern
What UK patients usually ask us about
What the evidence says, plainly
Research is promising for some uses and limited for others. Different cell sources, preparations and conditions cannot be treated as if they have the same evidence.
In the UK, established stem cell treatment is mainly used for certain blood and immune conditions. Those treatments are different from regenerative injections offered for joints, pain or wellness.
For other uses, ask any clinic, including us, what the evidence is for your condition, what remains uncertain, and what alternatives are available. Our doctors will tell you if we do not think you are a good candidate.
Before you choose
How to vet a clinic in Colombia
Use this checklist when you assess any clinic, and ask for clear answers before making a decision.
- Check that the healthcare provider is registered in REPS and the doctors are licensed and listed in ReTHUS.
- Ask where the cells come from and request documentation of the laboratory's certification and the specific product proposed. Do not rely on a general approval badge.
- Request the exact protocol, dose and number of sessions in writing.
- Discuss risks, alternatives and informed consent before deciding.
- Agree a follow-up plan for when you are back home in the UK.
For more information about care, regulation and planning, see our guide for international patients.
Planning the trip from the UK
- Flights from the UK to Medellín usually involve a connection, for example via Madrid, Bogotá or a US hub. Routes and schedules change; check transit requirements, especially for the US.
- British citizen passport holders can normally visit Colombia without a visa for short tourist stays, subject to immigration checks. Medical travel may need different arrangements: confirm the appropriate entry permission with the Colombian authorities and check the current rules on GOV.UK before booking.
- Complete Colombia's Check-MIG online form before flying to help with arrival formalities. Current GOV.UK guidance describes it as recommended, not mandatory; check the latest guidance and use the official form.
- Plan about 5–7 days in Medellín for a full programme, but confirm your individual schedule and fitness to fly with the doctor before booking non-refundable travel.
- El Poblado, where the clinic is located, has walkable areas and many hotels. Consider your mobility needs, transport and normal city precautions when choosing accommodation.
- Talk to your GP before travelling and keep copies of your scans, reports and medication list.
- Consider travel insurance that explicitly covers your planned medical treatment abroad and related complications. Standard holiday cover may exclude them.
Your care journey
How it works with YOU Medicine
- 1Free video consultation in English: tell us about your concerns and ask your initial questions before travelling.
- 2Share your UK scans, reports, relevant medical history and current medication list with the medical team.
- 3A doctor reviews whether treatment makes sense, explains the evidence and alternatives, and tells you if an in-person assessment is needed before a decision.
- 4Receive a written plan and quote after the consultation and review of your records. There is no obligation to proceed.
- 5If appropriate after your in-person evaluation and informed consent, treatment takes place in El Poblado, Medellín.
- 6Follow-up continues after you return to the UK. Keep your GP informed and share your treatment records.
Clear answers
Frequently asked questions
Is stem cell treatment available on the NHS?
The NHS provides established stem cell transplants for certain blood and immune conditions. Stem cell treatment for joints, pain and wellness is generally not routinely available outside clinical trials. Ask your GP or specialist about the options for your condition.
Can I get a consultation before I travel?
Yes. You can start with a free video consultation in English and share your UK scans and reports. A doctor reviews whether treatment may make sense; a final decision may still require an in-person medical evaluation.
How long should I stay in Medellín?
Plan about 5–7 days for a full programme, but the right length of stay depends on your evaluation, treatment and follow-up needs. Confirm the schedule and when you can fly home with the doctor before booking.
Do your doctors speak English?
Yes. Care and the pre-travel video consultation are available in English. Bring your UK medical records and ask us to explain anything that is unclear.
Will my GP be able to follow up?
We can provide your treatment records and a follow-up plan to share with your GP, and our medical team can follow up remotely. Speak with your GP beforehand: NHS follow-up, tests or treatment cannot be guaranteed and depend on your GP's clinical judgement and local arrangements.
Is Medellín safe for medical travel?
Like any big city, Medellín requires normal precautions. El Poblado is popular with visitors, but no area is risk-free. Check current GOV.UK travel advice, plan reliable transport and accommodation, and consider insurance that covers medical treatment abroad.
What if I'm not a good candidate?
We will tell you honestly. A different treatment, rehabilitation, conventional care or a specialist opinion may be more appropriate. You are not obliged to proceed with treatment.
Questions first? We're happy to talk it through, with no pressure.
The free consultation is the initial pre-travel video review. Any proposed treatment and any further in-person medical assessment are explained in your written plan and quote.