Health Tourism

Turkey has been going through a comprehensive healthcare restructuring.

Health tourism

Turkey has been going through a comprehensive healthcare restructuring. Scaling up its healthcare services and continuous quality improvements are important keys for the swift transition. As a result of state led health system reforms and an influx of private investments to Turkey's healthcare landscape, the country is now a strong alternative for international patients. With 46 Joint Commission International accredited hospitals, Turkey's private medical infrastructure is now a well-built option in the global medical tourism arena. Not to mention Turkey's geographical advantage as well as its unique cultural richness is an important factor in securing a solid place in this industry. The forerunners of Turkey's transformation have been local private healthcare investors. Turkish investors have shifted Turkey's health service standards and quality by employing state-of-the-art treatment centers and the latest in medical technology. With an increasing and prospering population of 75 million, the Turkish health industry offers significant opportunities for foreign investors as well. Today, Turkish entrepreneurs and doctors have not only created a unique opportunity for local patients but also for global healthcare seekers. With successful service outcomes, competitive price levels, and unique geographic location, Turkey is on its way to becoming a preferred health partner for insurance companies, assistance companies, self-run and government health funds. In the 21st century an increasing number of patients from developed countries are traveling abroad. These patients are seeking high quality medical care at affordable prices along with the flavor of being a tourist in a unique country. Initially, the medical tourism industry catered to patients who were seeking lower cost alternatives to selective procedures, mostly cosmetic. However, there is an increasing trend of patients who are seeking treatment abroad for more complicated procedures. The Medical Tourism Industry grossed $100 billion worldwide in 2009 and estimates that the market will expand to $200 billion by 2012. The majority of these patients are from the US. Though there is limited research covering the trend it is estimated that 1.6 million Americans traveled abroad for treatment in 2009. The cost savings for patients and their insurance companies seeking medical care abroad are significant.