About Us

Operations Abroad Worldwide Ltd was one of the pioneers of the medical travel industry in the UK. The company was founded in 1999 by accountant Kenneth Taylor, who identified significant differences in medical treatment costs between countries while working in consultancy for a travel insurance business.

At a time when NHS waiting lists were increasing, Kenneth explored the possibility of helping UK patients access safe, high-quality treatment abroad. Between 1999 and 2001, he carried out extensive research, working closely with foreign embassies and consulates to build a trusted international hospital network suitable for English-speaking patients.

In 2001, Operations Abroad Worldwide arranged the first UK-organised overseas medical treatment journey, when a patient from Stockport travelled to Thessaloniki, Greece for a knee replacement. The story attracted widespread national and regional media attention, and the business quickly grew as more patients began exploring treatment abroad.

Following Kenneth’s sudden passing in 2003 after battling melanoma, the company was taken forward by his daughter, Ruth Taylor, who continues to lead the organisation today.

Operations Abroad Worldwide now works with a global network of over 80 hospitals across 40 countries, arranging treatment for patients worldwide.

The company’s philosophy remains rooted in its founding values — to treat every patient with the same care, respect, and personal attention you would expect for your own family, ensuring patients feel supported, reassured, and safe throughout their healthcare journey abroad.

Our Mission

“Our mission is to provide patients with world-class medical care in the world’s finest hospitals within the shortest possible timescale, with a dedicated focus on highly personalised patient support and results of clinical excellence.”

Our Three Core Principles

  • Quality

  • Accessibility

  • Service

Our Vision

We believe that high-quality medical treatment should be accessible to everyone, without patients having to wait in pain for diagnosis or surgery. Patients should feel empowered to make informed decisions about their own healthcare and have greater control over their treatment options.

By providing fast access to surgery and specialist care, we help reduce unnecessary waiting and support better patient outcomes. With treatment available across 40 countries, we make some of the world’s leading private hospitals easily accessible for international patients.

With over 26 years of experience, our extensive knowledge and proven track record make us a highly respected and trusted name in international healthcare.

Contact Us