Medical tourism

Medical tourism refers to the movement of patients to countries outside their country of residence for medical reasons and access to high-quality services at lower costs. The causes of this phenomenon include economic differences in services between countries, shorter waiting times, and the modern technology that characterizes the healthcare systems of these countries. Aim: The aim of this thesis is to focus on the theoretical approach to the phenomenon of medical tourism, examining holistically its key aspects, advantages, disadvantages, its major dimensions in the global market, the countries promoting it, and the relevant legislation, without concentrating exclusively on specific details The benefits of medical tourism include advantages for the provider countries, such as boosting the economy and creating new job opportunities, as well as additional benefits for patients who benefit from affordable prices and higher-quality medical services. However, there are also disadvantages, such as the significant pressures on healthcare systems, the high expenses needed for the smooth operation of the sector, and the varying legislation that applies in the countries offering it. Some of the key countries involved in medical tourism are India, Thailand, Canada, Germany, and Turkey. The competition between countries concerns the prices and quality of services they offer, with the goal of attracting more patients. Method and materials: The methodology followed for the development of this thesis is a literature review of scientific journals, textbooks, books, and the internet, with the aim of providing the most accurate depiction of the phenomenon of medical tourism based on real-world data.