More and more European countries gain popularity in the field of health tourism. The practice of seeking affordable medical services in foreign countries is becoming increasingly popular worldwide and hundreds of thousands of patients annually seek opportunities for quality healthcare affordable abroad.
Looking closer at the continuously updated rankings of the most profitable and popular destinations for health tourism in the world, we will see an interesting and steady trend:
Europe ranks higher on the world market for health tourism services
Traditionally, Asian countries hold the first places for lower prices in the segment of health tourism. Countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, India and even China offer all sorts of packages and medical services - from dental procedures to sex change. Low prices attract tourists and patients from the West. Only the influx of patients from the United States equals more than 25% of the market for these services in Asia.
While Eastern countries offer compelling prices, many people are concerned about the quality of services offered. Most of the leading countries in health tourism rely more and more on high quality and good health practices, but as with any market with little control, patients sometimes fall on poor quality services and even outright charlatans. So more and more people look towards new markets which, ironically enough, are on the old continent.
Which are the most attractive destinations for health tourism in Europe
Hungary
Currently Hungary is one of the most desired destinations for medical tourism in Europe. Among the most popular services are plastic surgery procedures for rejuvenation and beautification, as well as dental procedures.
What attracts patients? Of course - the combination of low prices and good practice, qualified medical staff and high ratings in countries like Britain, Germany, Austria, Italy, Sweden, Denmark, Norway.
According to the site DoctorOnline prices in Hungary are as much as 50% lower as compared with those in the United Kingdom.
Poland
In recent decades, Poland has established itself as a destination for health services and successfully developed affordable care for wealthy Europeans seeking health tourism. According to a report of TechSci (2010) Poland is expecting growth of more than 15% increase in medical-tourism sector. The main users of health services from the UK and Germany.
Demand for health services by foreigners in Poland continues to rise. Experts say this is due to several favorable factors such as short waiting time, low prices for services, geographic proximity to most European countries and last but not least - more options for cheap flights in the EU region. Among the most wanted medical services in Poland are dental surgery and cosmetic procedures.
According to a report of the financial analyst Insight Market Research Solutions, Poland is the most visited destination for beauty operations and procedures by European citizens.
Health tourists spend an average of € 1,156 for various procedures, as prices compared with those in Germany, for example, can be as 56-60% cheaper.
Turkey
Although not a member of the European Union, Turkey is one of the leading countries offering health services to foreigners on the territory of Europe. The country is traditionally preferred by patients from Western Europe (as well as other countries) because of low prices and proven quality of service and treatment. While it is more expensive than in Bulgaria, Turkish health care is preferred by many Bulgarians, due to the good technical equipment of hospitals and well-prepared medical personnel.
Annual market of health services in Turkey covers treatment of 360 000 foreign citizens for 12 months. These data were collected from 500 hospitals. According to data cited by Investor.bg to five thousand Bulgarians are treated in Turkey every year.
Препоръчани клиники за такъв тип заболявания
