A referral from a physician is not required for international patients. However, if you are being referred by a physician, it is helpful to include the referral note and all supporting documents as part of the medical records submitted for review.
Duke Health providers will happily communicate with the doctors in your own country to ensure a continuum of care when necessary. Additionally, Duke International Patient Services will provide you with a copy of your medical records –if requested— upon conclusion of your treatment episode.
While we do our best to honor your special requests, in some circumstances, we may not have available providers that meet your gender preference.
International Patient Services will coordinate additional services if needed. However, a new agreement and financial clearance may be necessary for the added services.
Duke Health does not offer remote second opinions for international patients.
Preparing for Your Trip
International Patient Services assists with the following:
Processing and reviewing referral requests
Scheduling initial appointments
Providing supporting documents for visa applications
Assisting with lodging arrangements
Connect patients and families with available community resources to meet cultural and religious needs.
Provide language services for limited-English-proficient patients
Coordinate follow-up care if additional services are required.
Upon completion of treatment, Duke Health International Patient Services provides logistical support to ensure continuity of care.
While we can't assist with booking your travel, our staff members will assist with local lodging and transportation arrangements.
International Patient Services will provide all the necessary details once your appointment(s) are scheduled.
Please arrive at your first appointment with a government-issued identification document and your appointment confirmation letter from International Patient Services.
International Patient Services provides language assistance to all limited English-proficient patients through interpreters (in person, by phone, or via video) at no cost to the patient.
Duke Health has a multi-faith chapel on the first floor of Duke Medicine Pavilion. International Patient Services staff will also provide you with additional information on places of worship in the community.
Financial Services
If your referral is accepted by a Duke Health provider, you will receive a letter of agreement outlining planned services and the anticipated cost.
If you do not have commercial insurance and you are not sponsored by your government, you are considered “self-pay”. Self-pay patients must pay the cost of treatment in full before being scheduled for care.
International patients are not eligible for financial assistance or charity care.
International patients use wire transfers to pre-pay for services.
Duke Health will accept international insurance that is in-network and has covered benefits.
Contact Us
If you have questions, please contact us via email at intps@duke.edu or phone at 919-688-2640. Our fax is 919-684-8674.
