COLUMBIA -- UCI Medical Affiliates, which operates 35 Doctors Care locations in South Carolina, has agreed to provide post-surgical care for clients of Companion Global Healthcare Inc. returning from overseas network medical facilities.

Through Companion Global Healthcare, based in Columbia, S.C., patients wishing to access U.S.-accredited medical facilities overseas for discount services have a single launch point for appointments, information and travel services.

Companion Global Healthcare recently affiliated with JCI-accredited Bumrungrad International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, as the first hospital in its overseas network, and with World Access for travel services. The Companion Global Healthcare model is the first of its kind in South Carolina and among the first in the United States.

In the latest addition to its suite of services, Companion Global Healthcare will offer patients a pre-paid aftercare package that includes up to two consultative visits with physicians at Doctors Care facilities.

"Offering an aftercare option with global health care and concierge services provides the complete package to patients who want to travel for medical care," said David Boucher, assistant vice president of Health Care Services for BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina and Companion Global Healthcare.

"We have received several questions regarding continuing care once patients return to the U.S. The Doctors Care medical staff will be able to provide the initial consultative care if requested by the member."