The number of Dutch patients travelling to Belgium for medical treatment has increased 14% over the past three years.

Belgium is also popular with patients from Germany, France, the UK and Luxemburg, a report by the patient mobility observatory shows.

The latest figures cover the years 2007 to 2011, during which period the number of Dutch patients travelling to Belgium rose from 26,452 to 30,152.

Orthopedic treatment, such as a new hip or knee, are the most common treatments sought by the Dutch. There is a waiting list for these operations in the Netherlands, but not in Belgium.

Heart operations, caesarian sections and hysterectomies also feature high on the list.

Most male patients are aged 60 to 64 years. Females are more likely to be between 35 and 44 years old.