Factors Affecting the Choice of Latvia Inhabitants to Receive Medical Services Abroad

The growing demand for medical services abroad indicates that medical tourism has become a significant trend in modern society. Today, there are several dozen countries that have set medical tourism as one of the cornerstones of their country's economic development. To decide in favor of medical tourism, factors such as lower treatment costs, the ability to receive the desired procedure faster, as well as a wider range of services than in the home country are most often evaluated. However, considering the wide range of medical tourism destinations, patients must carefully evaluate the criteria they want to meet their wishes and expectations. The aim of the study is to identify factors that influence choice of the Latvian residents to receive medical services abroad. To achieve this goal, a survey of Latvian residents was conducted. The results of the study provide insight into how Latvian medical institutions can improve their operations by serving the country's residents and by starting medical tourism activities.