Aussies flock to rehab with the stars overseas
DRUG addicts are the latest targets of medical tourism, with growing numbers of Victorians joining rock stars at overseas rehab.
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DRUG addicts are the latest targets of medical tourism, with growing numbers of Victorians joining rock stars, television personalities and international models at luxury overseas rehabilitation.
The number of Australians heading to The Cabin in Thailand's north to kick drug habits has increased tenfold over the past year, now making up a third of the 240 people treated there annually.
UK rocker Pete Doherty arrived at The Cabin in Chiang Mai on Tuesday.
Alongside Aussies, who pay $3000 a week to stay in the secluded rehab-resort, Doherty will take up yoga, elephant trekking, cognitive behavioural therapy and the 12-step program to get on top of his long-term heroin and cocaine addiction.
Psychologist Cameron Brown, who offers after-care to Australians returning home from The Cabin, said Victorians were attracted by the price and anonymity.
"We've had dentists, housewives, celebrities and managers at the height of their careers who come because they don't have to worry about who might see them," Mr Brown said.