Medical Tourism Rise

Medical Tourism Rise explores the burgeoning phenomenon of patients traveling internationally for medical care, driven by factors such as cost differentials, shorter waiting times, and access to specialized procedures. This global trend has significant economic implications, impacting both countries that send patients abroad and those that receive them. The book uniquely addresses the ethical considerations intertwined with this practice, including equitable access to care and quality assurance, issues often overlooked in discussions of global healthcare. The book adopts an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from economics, public health, and sociology to provide a comprehensive perspective. It begins by establishing core concepts and then systematically analyzes the drivers of patient mobility, the economic consequences for various countries, and the ethical dilemmas that arise. For example, receiving countries may experience revenue generation, while sending countries face potential revenue loss in their domestic healthcare systems. By incorporating case studies and informal international patient flow data, the book offers a nuanced understanding of patient motivations and experiences. Ultimately, the analysis aims to equip policymakers, healthcare administrators, and patients with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of medical tourism. The book concludes with policy recommendations designed to promote patient safety, economic sustainability, and ethical practices within this evolving global landscape.