According to a report carried out by the Consumer Choice Center in 2023, the United States had the longest average wait for a primary physician appointment at almost three weeks. On the other hand, those in Switzerland only had to wait around two days for an appointment. In Spain, it was estimated that the average wait time for an elective surgery appointment was 77 days.

According to the 2024 survey, ** percent of individuals in Hungary believed waiting times were too long. Even the best-performing country, Switzerland, still had over a quarter of Swiss respondents saying wait times were too long for a doctor's appointment. This statistic displays the share of individuals who thought waiting times to get an appointment with doctors were too long in select European countries in 2024.

Hospital Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS) Market Outlook

The global hospital real-time location systems (RTLS) market size is anticipated to grow from USD 2.5 billion in 2023 to USD 7.6 billion by 2032, reflecting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.5% during the forecast period. This rapid market growth is driven by the increasing need for efficient workflow management and enhanced patient care in healthcare facilities.

One of the primary factors fueling the growth of the hospital RTLS market is the escalating demand for improved patient safety and operational efficiency. Hospitals are increasingly adopting RTLS technology to enhance patient care by reducing wait times, preventing medication errors, and ensuring timely delivery of healthcare services. With the growing prevalence of chronic diseases and increasing patient admissions, the need for efficient asset and staff management has become critical, thereby driving the adoption of RTLS in healthcare settings.

Moreover, advancements in technology and the integration of IoT (Internet of Things) in the healthcare sector have significantly contributed to the growth of the RTLS market. The introduction of advanced technologies such as RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and ultrasound has revolutionized the way hospitals manage their resources. These technologies provide real-time tracking and monitoring capabilities, enabling healthcare providers to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently.

Another notable growth factor is the increasing government initiatives and funding to improve healthcare infrastructure. Governments across various regions are investing heavily in healthcare IT solutions, including RTLS, to enhance the quality of care and ensure patient safety. For instance, initiatives to implement electronic health records (EHR) and other digital health solutions are creating a favorable environment for the adoption of RTLS in hospitals and other healthcare facilities.

From a regional perspective, North America holds a significant share of the hospital RTLS market, attributed to the well-established healthcare infrastructure and high adoption rate of advanced technologies. Europe follows closely, with countries like Germany, France, and the UK investing substantially in healthcare IT solutions. The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, driven by the increasing healthcare expenditure, growing awareness about the benefits of RTLS, and the rising number of hospitals and healthcare facilities in countries like China and India.

Component Analysis

The hospital RTLS market is segmented by components into hardware, software, and services. The hardware segment comprises tags, sensors, and other tracking devices essential for the implementation of RTLS in healthcare settings. The software segment includes the applications and platforms that facilitate the analysis and visualization of the data collected by the hardware components. Services encompass installation, maintenance, and consulting services necessary for the effective deployment and operation of RTLS solutions.

In the hardware segment, tags and sensors play a crucial role in tracking the location of assets, patients, and staff within the hospital premises. These devices are equipped with various technologies such as RFID, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and ultrasound to ensure accurate real-time tracking. The demand for advanced and miniaturized tags and sensors is on the rise, driven by the need for more precise and reliable tracking solutions in healthcare facilities.

The software segment is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing adoption of analytics and data visualization tools in healthcare. These software solutions enable healthcare providers to monitor and manage hospital operations effectively, leading to improved patient care and operational efficiency. The integration of RTLS with other healthcare IT systems, such as EHR and hospital information systems (HIS), is further driving the demand for advanced software solutions.

Services play a vital role in the successful implementation and operation of RTLS in hospitals. Installation services ensure that the hardware and software components are correctly set up and integrated with existing hospital systems. Maintenance services are essential to keep the RTLS infrastructure functioning optimally and to address any technical issues that may arise. Consulting services provide hospitals with expert guidance on the best practice

Since 1993, the average waiting time for specialist medical treatment has been increasing in Canada. In 2024, it took someone in Ontario over 23 weeks wait to receive medical treatment after being referred by a general practitioner, whereas it took only nine weeks back in 1993. Overall, the average waiting time increased by 20 weeks in the country.

IntroductionPatients often spend significant time waiting for care, which influences patient satisfaction, perceived quality, access to care, and utilization of various health care services. Waiting time and resulting implications remain understudied in low- and middle-income countries like Kenya. This study aimed to describe the impact on the perception of waiting times on patient satisfaction and care at a tertiary healthcare institution in Kenya.MethodWe conducted a prospective cross-sectional study between the first of April 2023 and the thirty-first of August 2023 at the Emergency Room (ER) at Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire examining demographics and patient wait times. Descriptive statistics were summarized using frequencies and percentages, and univariate analyses using Fisher’s exact test were conducted for group comparisons.ResultsA total of 941 patients participated in the study, with 52.0% being females and 53.6% in the 20–40-year age group. More than half of the patients were married (52.4%), had a university education (75.9%), and were employed (70.6%). Of the patients who took the survey, 51.1% reported waiting for 31–60 minutes, while 25.4% reported waiting for more than 60 minutes. Most patients presented to the ER on Monday, most frequently between 0800 and 1200 hrs. Most patients (70.8%) were likely to return for care and 71.7% were likely to recommend care at the ER to relatives and friends.ConclusionSpecific days and times of visits to the ER were associated with prolonged waiting times. To reduce waiting times and improve access to healthcare services, facilities should consider increasing the number of healthcare providers during these peak hours to ensure timely and quality consultations. Identifying bottlenecks and gridlocks within healthcare facilities is crucial to developing an efficient blueprint that aims to improve waiting times, leading to improved patient satisfaction and care.

In 2023, Spain and Germany were the countries with the highest share of people who encountered long waiting lists when accessing mental health services with ** percent and ** percent respectively. On the other hand, Romania and Bulgaria were the countries with the lowest share of people indicating problems with long waiting lists to access mental health services.

ObjectiveThe coronavirus disease (COVID-19) disrupted healthcare systems and medical care worldwide. This study attempts to assess the performance of three Saudi hospitals during COVID-19 by comparing waiting times for outpatient appointments and the volume of elective surgeries before and after COVID-19.MethodsWe used ADA’A data collected from three Saudi hospitals for this retrospective cohort study. The outcome variables were “Waiting Time for Appointment” and “Elective OR Utilization”. The hospitals included in this study were: a 300-bed maternity and children’s hospital; a 643-bed general hospital; and a 1230-bed tertiary hospital. We included all patients who visited the OPD and OR in the time period from September 2019 to December 2021. A two-way ANOVA test was used to examine the differences in the outcome variables by hospital and by the phase of COVID-19.ResultsFor the elective OR utilization rate, the results showed that both the hospital and the phase of COVID-19 were significantly different (p-value < 0.05). On average, the elective OR utilization rate dipped considerably in the early phase of COVID-19 (33.2% vs 44.9%) and jumped sharply in the later phase (50.3%). The results showed that the waiting time for OPD appointment was significantly different across hospitals and before and after COVID-19 in each hospital (p-value < 0.05). the waiting time dropped during the early phase of COVID-19 for both the general hospital (GEN) (24.6 days vs 34.8 days) and the tertiary hospital (MDC) (40.3 days vs 48.6 days), while the maternity and children’s hospital (MCH)’s score deteriorated sharply (24.6 days vs 9.5 days).ConclusionThis study indicates that COVID-19 led to a significant impact on elective surgery rates and waiting time for OPD appointments in the early stage of the pandemic when the lockdown strategy was implemented in the country. Although the elective surgery rate had decreased at the designated COVID-hospital, the waiting time for OPD appointment had improved. This is a clear indication that the careful planning and management of resources for essential services during pandemic was effective.

Outbound Medical Tourism Services Market Outlook

The global market size for outbound medical tourism services is projected to significantly rise from USD 55 billion in 2023 to approximately USD 97 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% during the forecasted period. This robust growth can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the increasing costs of healthcare services in developed countries, the expansion of quality healthcare services in emerging economies, and the growing awareness of cost-effective medical treatment options abroad. These factors, among others, are propelling the market forward, positioning it as a major segment within the broader healthcare and tourism industries.

One of the key growth factors driving the outbound medical tourism services market is the escalating healthcare costs in developed countries, particularly in North America and Europe. Patients in these regions are burdened by the high costs associated with medical procedures, insurance, and pharmaceutical products. As a result, a significant number of individuals are seeking affordable healthcare alternatives overseas, where they can receive the same or even better quality of care at a fraction of the cost. This trend is particularly evident in elective procedures such as dental, cosmetic, and fertility treatments, which are often not fully covered by insurance plans and therefore incentivize patients to consider outbound medical tourism.

Another critical driver for the outbound medical tourism services market is the advancement and accreditation of healthcare facilities in emerging economies. Countries such as India, Thailand, Mexico, and Turkey have become prominent destinations for medical tourists due to their state-of-the-art healthcare infrastructure and internationally accredited hospitals. These destinations offer a wide array of medical services, ranging from complex surgeries to wellness and preventative care, thus attracting a diverse group of patients from various parts of the world. Furthermore, these countries often have medical professionals trained in Western countries, ensuring high standards of care and comfort for international patients.

Technological advancements and the proliferation of digital platforms are also contributing to the growth of the outbound medical tourism market. The internet and social media have played a crucial role in disseminating information about medical tourism options, enabling patients to research and compare healthcare services across the globe. Additionally, telemedicine has made it more feasible for patients to communicate with foreign healthcare providers prior to traveling, allowing them to make informed decisions. The ease of communication and information access has thus reduced the barriers to engaging in medical tourism, further accelerating market growth.

Regionally, Asia Pacific remains the most sought-after destination for outbound medical tourism, thanks to its competitive pricing and quality healthcare services. Within this region, countries like India and Thailand are leading the charge due to their advanced medical technologies and cost-effective treatment options. Other regions such as Latin America are also witnessing significant growth, largely driven by proximity to North American patients who constitute a substantial portion of the market. In contrast, the Middle East and Africa are gradually emerging as new players, investing heavily in healthcare infrastructure to attract a share of the medical tourist populace. Europe maintains a steady flow of medical tourists due to its reputation for high-quality, albeit more expensive, healthcare services.

Service Type Analysis

The outbound medical tourism services market is broadly segmented by service type, encompassing surgical, dental, cosmetic, fertility, and other medical services. The surgical segment holds a substantial share of the market, driven by the demand for procedures such as orthopedic surgeries, cardiovascular surgeries, and organ transplants. Patients often seek these procedures abroad due to shorter waiting times and lower costs compared to their home countries. The availability of specialized surgical expertise in destination countries further enhances the appeal of medical tourism for surgical services. Additionally, pre- and post-operative care services are increasingly being tailored to meet the needs of international patients, contributing to the growth of this segment.

Dental services have emerged as a pivotal segment within the outbound medical tourism market. Procedures such as dental implants, veneers, and o

After Hours Medical Service Market Outlook

The global after hours medical service market size is expected to reach USD 28.4 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% from USD 16.7 billion in 2023. The rising demand for accessible healthcare services outside of traditional hours is a primary growth factor. This demand is driven by an increase in the number of individuals seeking medical assistance during non-standard hours due to busy lifestyles, chronic conditions, and emergencies.

One of the significant growth factors contributing to this market is the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and conditions requiring continuous care. Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases necessitate frequent monitoring and immediate medical attention, which often cannot wait for regular office hours. The after hours medical service market addresses this gap by providing timely interventions, thereby reducing hospital admissions and improving patient outcomes. Additionally, the growing aging population worldwide further amplifies the need for such services, as elderly individuals often require immediate and continuous medical attention.

Technological advancements also play a crucial role in propelling the growth of this market. The integration of telehealth services has revolutionized after hours medical care by enabling remote consultations and continuous monitoring. This not only reduces the strain on healthcare facilities but also provides patients with timely access to medical expertise. The increasing penetration of smartphones and high-speed internet has made telehealth services more accessible, thereby significantly contributing to market growth. Furthermore, advancements in medical devices and mobile health applications are enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of after hours medical services.

Healthcare policies and regulations are increasingly supporting the expansion of after hours medical services. Governments and healthcare organizations are recognizing the importance of providing continuous medical care and are thus implementing policies that promote the development and accessibility of after hours medical services. For instance, healthcare reforms in various countries are aimed at reducing the burden on emergency departments by encouraging the use of urgent care centers and telehealth services. These initiatives not only improve patient care but also contribute to the overall growth of the after hours medical service market.

Medical Urgent Care centers are increasingly becoming a cornerstone in the after hours medical service market. These facilities are designed to offer immediate medical attention for non-life-threatening conditions, providing a crucial alternative to emergency rooms. The convenience and accessibility of urgent care centers make them an attractive option for patients seeking prompt medical services outside of regular office hours. With the ability to handle a wide range of medical issues, from minor injuries to acute illnesses, these centers significantly alleviate the pressure on emergency departments. The rise in the number of urgent care centers is a direct response to the growing demand for accessible healthcare solutions, reflecting a shift towards more patient-centered care models.

The regional outlook for the after hours medical service market shows significant potential across various geographies. North America, particularly the United States, is expected to dominate the market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure and high adoption of telehealth services. Europe is also anticipated to experience substantial growth, driven by the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and supportive healthcare policies. The Asia Pacific region is projected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, attributed to the rising healthcare expenditure, growing awareness about after hours medical services, and the rapid adoption of telehealth technologies.

Service Type Analysis

The service type segment in the after hours medical service market is primarily divided into telehealth services, home visits, urgent care centers, and others. Telehealth services have emerged as a significant segment due to the convenience and accessibility they offer. These services enable patients to consult healthcare professionals remotely, reducing the need for physical visits. The adoption of telehealth services has skyrocketed, especially during the COVID-19 pandemi

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Medical Tourism Market Size 2025-2029

The medical tourism market size is forecast to increase by USD 132.8 billion, at a CAGR of 36.6% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the availability of affordable treatment options in destinations outside of traditional healthcare hubs. This trend is particularly prominent in developing nations, where the cost savings can be substantial. Additionally, the growing focus on technological advancements in healthcare is transforming the medical tourism landscape, enabling providers in emerging markets to offer cutting-edge treatments and diagnostics. However, the market faces challenges as well. The lack of advanced infrastructure in some developing nations poses a significant obstacle, as it can impact the quality of care and patient safety. To capitalize on opportunities and navigate challenges effectively, companies must stay abreast of technological advancements and invest in building robust infrastructure to ensure the delivery of high-quality, safe, and effective healthcare services. By doing so, they can attract a growing number of patients seeking affordable, yet high-quality medical treatments.

What will be the Size of the Medical Tourism Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free SampleThe market continues to evolve, driven by various dynamics and applications across numerous sectors. Healthcare technology adoption plays a significant role in medical tourism facilitation, enabling virtual consultations, treatment cost transparency, and digital health services. Global healthcare providers are increasingly adopting these technologies to cater to the growing demand for cross-border healthcare. Fertility treatment, cardiovascular care, and cosmetic surgery are popular medical tourism destinations, attracting patients from around the world. Sustainability in healthcare and wellness tourism are emerging trends, with an emphasis on cultural sensitivity and health outcomes. Post-treatment care and patient satisfaction are crucial factors in medical tourism competitiveness. Healthcare supply chain optimization, hospital accreditation, and healthcare infrastructure development are essential components of destination healthcare. Medical travel insurance, organ transplantation, and rehabilitation services are other key areas of focus. Patient advocacy and language interpretation are vital in ensuring seamless medical tourism experiences. Diagnostic imaging and medical technology are integral to healthcare value chains, while geriatric care and cancer treatment are critical areas of need. Healthcare data analytics and patient empowerment are driving innovation in medical tourism, enabling better decision-making and personalized care. Medical tourism regulations and healthcare quality standards continue to evolve, ensuring safe and effective care for international patients. Medical tourism packages offer comprehensive solutions, including transportation, accommodation, and language interpretation. Alternative medicine and healthcare marketing are also gaining popularity in medical tourism destinations. In conclusion, the market is a dynamic and evolving landscape, with ongoing activities and unfolding patterns shaping its future. From healthcare technology adoption to patient satisfaction, cultural sensitivity to healthcare infrastructure development, medical tourism continues to redefine the global healthcare landscape.

How is this Medical Tourism Industry segmented?

The medical tourism industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. SourceDomesticInternationalService TypePrivatePublicTypeCardiovascular treatmentCosmetic treatmentFertility treatmentOrthopedics treatmentOthersGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeGermanyUKMiddle East and AfricaUAEAPACChinaIndiaSingaporeSouth KoreaRest of World (ROW).

By Source Insights

The domestic segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.The market is experiencing significant growth between 2025 and 2029, with the domestic segment exhibiting noteworthy dynamics. Factors driving this trend include advancements in healthcare infrastructure and technology adoption. Domestic medical tourism is shifting towards providing specialized treatments and services catering to local populations, leading to increased patient satisfaction and loyalty. A key trend emerging in this sector is the integration of digital health solutions. Telemedicine platforms and electronic health records streamline patient experiences, reduce waiting times, and improve accessibility. Remote consultations

Healthcare Tourism Market size was valued at USD 110.75 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 250.66 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 10.75% during the forecast period. i.e., 2026-2032.may include:• Cost Savings Opportunity: Medical procedures in popular healthcare tourism destinations can cost 40-80% less than in developed countries, attracting patients seeking affordable treatment without compromising quality. This substantial price differential remains a primary driver for cross-border healthcare seekers.• Quality Healthcare Access: Internationally accredited hospitals with state-of-the-art facilities and highly qualified physicians in countries like Thailand, India, and Turkey offer comparable or superior care to domestic options, driving patients to seek treatment abroad.• Reduced Wait Times: Patients from countries with long healthcare queues choose medical tourism to receive immediate treatment rather than waiting months for procedures. This immediate access prevents condition deterioration and improves overall treatment outcomes.• Specialized Treatment Availability: Some destinations offer cutting-edge procedures or specialized treatments not yet approved or available in patients' home countries, attracting those seeking innovative therapies, experimental procedures, or alternative medicine options.

Baseline characteristics of participants according to the time of data collection and in total; figures are presented as N (%) unless otherwise stated.

Medical Tourism Market Outlook 2032

The global medical tourism market size was USD 24.14 Billion in 2023 and is likely to reach USD 137.71 Billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 21.4% during 2024–2032. The market growth is attributed to the high demand for digital health records and data sharing across borders and advancements in healthcare technology.



Medical tourism refers to the practice of traveling across international borders to access medical treatment that is either unavailable or more costly in one's home country. This market has expanded significantly over the past decades due to advancements in healthcare technology, increased accessibility of information, and globalization of healthcare standards. Patients typically seek treatments such as elective surgery, dental procedures, fertility treatments, and complex specialized surgeries such as joint replacement or cardiac surgery. The appeal often lies in the potential cost savings, shorter waiting times, and the opportunity to combine medical treatment with travel to a foreign destination.

Digital health records and the ability to share these records seamlessly across borders represent a significant technological advancement in the medical tourism industry. Electronic health records (EHRs) allow for efficient, accurate, and secure exchange of patient information between healthcare providers in different countries. This capability is crucial for maintaining continuity of care and ensuring that all medical professionals involved in a patient's treatment have access to the same comprehensive medical history and treatment details.



The use of digital health records helps in reducing medical errors, streamlining administrative processes, and enhancing patient safety. As data-sharing protocols and cybersecurity measures continue to improve, the integration of digital health records in medical tourism is expected to further enhance operational efficiencies and patient care standards globally.

Medical Tourism Market Dynamics

Major Drivers</sp

Healthcare Tourism Market Outlook

The global healthcare tourism market size was valued at approximately USD 82.27 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach around USD 272.7 billion by 2032, growing at a robust CAGR of 14.6% during the forecast period. One of the primary growth factors driving this market is the increasing affordability and accessibility of high-quality medical treatments in various countries, coupled with the rising awareness among patients about global healthcare options.

Several factors contribute to the growth of the healthcare tourism market. Firstly, the cost of medical procedures in developed countries is significantly higher compared to developing countries. This cost discrepancy motivates patients from high-income nations to seek affordable yet high-quality treatments abroad. For instance, a cardiac surgery that costs around $30,000 in the United States can be completed for about $7,000 in countries like India or Thailand, including travel and accommodation. This enormous cost saving is a significant driver for the healthcare tourism market.

Secondly, waiting times for medical treatments in developed nations often push patients to look for quicker alternatives abroad. In countries with socialized healthcare systems, patients may wait several months for procedures like hip replacements or cancer treatments. In contrast, healthcare facilities in medical tourism hotspots often provide immediate treatment, which is a compelling reason for patients to travel. The combination of shorter wait times and immediate access to care is a critical growth factor for this market.

Another growth factor is the increasing globalization and ease of travel. With the enhancement of global connectivity via air travel and the relaxation of visa regulations in many countries, it has become considerably easier for patients to travel for healthcare purposes. Additionally, the rise of medical tourism facilitators who offer comprehensive packages that include travel, accommodation, and medical care has simplified the process for international patients, further bolstering market growth.

Elective Healthcare Services play a pivotal role in the healthcare tourism market, offering patients the flexibility to choose non-emergency medical procedures at their convenience. These services include a wide range of treatments such as cosmetic surgeries, dental procedures, and elective orthopedic surgeries, which are often not covered by insurance in many developed countries. The ability to plan and schedule these procedures according to personal preferences, combined with the potential for significant cost savings, makes elective healthcare services an attractive option for international patients. Furthermore, the quality of care and the opportunity to recover in a serene environment contribute to the growing popularity of these services in medical tourism destinations.

Regionally, Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the healthcare tourism market due to its advanced medical facilities, highly skilled healthcare professionals, and cost-effective treatment options. Countries like India, Thailand, and Singapore are already well-established in this sector. North America and Europe are also significant players due to their advanced healthcare systems, although they are more commonly known as source regions from which patients travel abroad for affordable healthcare solutions.

Treatment Type Analysis

The healthcare tourism market is segmented by treatment type, including cosmetic treatment, dental treatment, cardiovascular treatment, orthopedic treatment, fertility treatment, neurological treatment, cancer treatment, and others. Each of these segments has unique growth drivers, trends, and challenges that shape the overall market landscape.

The cosmetic treatment segment is one of the fastest-growing areas in healthcare tourism. Procedures such as rhinoplasty, liposuction, and breast augmentation are highly sought after due to their high costs in developed countries. Nations like Brazil, Thailand, and South Korea have emerged as top destinations for cosmetic surgeries, offering world-class facilities at a fraction of the cost. The growing societal acceptance of cosmetic enhancements and the desire for aesthetic improvement are significant factors driving the market in this segment.

Dental treatment is another prominent segment within healthcare tourism. High costs and long wait

According to a survey conducted in Colombia in 2024, only around ** percent of respondents trusted their country's health care system to provide the best health treatment. Moreover, ** percent of interviewees believed that many people cannot afford good health care, while ** percent considered that waiting times to get an appointment with doctors were too long. Affiliation to public healthcare In 2023, around ** percent of Colombia's population was affiliated to the public health care system, which is divided into two main programs: the contributive program for wage earners and the subsidized scheme for everyone else. That year, only around ** percent of those affiliated were part of the contributive program, mandatory for all Colombians earning at least the minimum wage. The department of Bogotá was the only region in Colombia where more than three quarters of the population were part of the contributive program, whereas the department of Chocó had the smallest share of contributive members at **** percent. Healthcare resources As of 2024, there were ***** hospitals and ****** hospital beds available in Colombia. This translated to an average of **** hospital beds available per 1,000 people across the country, with this figure expected to remain stable within the next five years. That same year, there were **** physicians in the country per 1,000 population. This number is forecast to increase to **** by 2029.

Medical Tourism Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global medical tourism market size reached USD 124.2 billion in 2024, driven by a robust demand for affordable and high-quality healthcare services across international borders. The market is exhibiting a strong compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.7% from 2025 to 2033. Based on this growth trajectory, the market is forecasted to reach an impressive USD 382.4 billion by 2033. Major factors fueling this expansion include increasing healthcare costs in developed countries, advancements in medical technology, and a growing awareness of medical tourism options worldwide.

One of the primary growth drivers of the medical tourism market is the escalating cost of healthcare in developed economies, particularly in the United States and Western Europe. Patients from these regions are increasingly seeking medical procedures abroad to take advantage of significant cost savings without compromising on quality. For example, complex surgeries and elective procedures that might be prohibitively expensive in the US can often be performed at a fraction of the cost in countries like India, Thailand, and Mexico. This cost differential, combined with shorter waiting times and access to cutting-edge treatments, is compelling more individuals to consider cross-border healthcare solutions. Furthermore, the proliferation of specialized medical tourism facilitators and agencies has simplified the process, making it easier for patients to identify reputable hospitals and clinics abroad.

Another critical factor contributing to the growth of the medical tourism market is the advancement and globalization of healthcare standards. Many hospitals and clinics in emerging markets now boast international accreditations such as Joint Commission International (JCI) certification, which assures patients of stringent quality and safety protocols. These institutions often employ internationally trained healthcare professionals and offer multilingual support, which helps build trust and confidence among international patients. Additionally, the rise of telemedicine and digital health platforms has enabled better pre- and post-operative care, allowing patients to consult with their chosen providers remotely before traveling and to maintain follow-up care after returning home. This seamless integration of technology and healthcare services has significantly enhanced the overall patient experience and contributed to the market’s rapid expansion.

The medical tourism market is also benefiting from the increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases and the rising demand for elective procedures such as cosmetic surgery, dental treatments, and fertility interventions. As awareness of medical tourism grows, patients are more willing to travel for specialized treatments that may not be readily available or legally permitted in their home countries. Governments in several popular medical tourism destinations have also recognized the economic potential of this sector and are actively investing in healthcare infrastructure, streamlining visa processes, and launching targeted marketing campaigns to attract foreign patients. This proactive approach by both public and private stakeholders is fostering a competitive landscape and encouraging further innovation and investment in the industry.

From a regional perspective, the Asia Pacific region continues to dominate the medical tourism market, accounting for the largest share in 2024. Countries such as India, Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia have established themselves as premier destinations, offering a diverse range of medical services at competitive prices. North America and Europe also play significant roles, primarily as source markets for outbound medical tourists. However, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are rapidly emerging as attractive destinations due to their improving healthcare infrastructure, strategic geographic locations, and growing reputation for specialized treatments. This dynamic regional interplay is expected to shape the global medical tourism landscape in the coming years, with new destinations emerging as key players alongside established hubs.

The European medical tourism market, valued at €15.80 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 17.82% from 2025 to 2033. This significant expansion is driven by several key factors. Firstly, the increasing affordability and accessibility of advanced medical treatments in certain European countries attract patients from regions with higher healthcare costs or limited access to specialized care. Secondly, the rising prevalence of chronic diseases across Europe and globally fuels demand for sophisticated treatments and procedures readily available in specialized European medical facilities. Furthermore, the superior quality of care, advanced medical technology, and shorter waiting times offered by many European hospitals are strong incentives for medical tourism. Finally, effective marketing and promotion by hospitals and specialized medical tourism agencies contribute to increased market visibility and patient acquisition. Market segmentation reveals that neurology, aesthetics, dental, cardiovascular, orthopedic, and cancer treatments are major contributors to the overall market value. Germany, the United Kingdom, France, and Italy are expected to be the leading national markets, reflecting their established medical infrastructure and reputation for excellence. However, growth is also anticipated in other European countries as they invest in improving their healthcare infrastructure and promoting their medical tourism capabilities. The competitive landscape involves both large hospital networks (like Helios Hospitals and The Royal Marsden) and specialized clinics, each targeting specific segments of the medical tourism market. While regulatory frameworks and potential risks associated with medical tourism act as restraints, the overall market outlook remains very positive, driven by patient demand and ongoing innovation within the European healthcare sector. Recent developments include: May 2023: The Cherwell Hospital launched its new installation of Surgicube, Ophthalmology Suite. The Surgicube equipment provides an ultra-clean airflow across the operating surface, and the Cherwell Hospital is one of the two hospitals across Ramsay, United Kingdom, to have this state-of-the-art equipment., May 2023: ReGenesis signed a partnership with Now Hair Time Hair Transplant Turkey to assist its Western Canada clients with an affordable hair transplantation service.. Key drivers for this market are: Rising Burden of Chronic Diseases, Rising Awareness about Medical Tourism and Government Initiatives; Advanced Medical Infrastructure and Medical Care Services. Potential restraints include: Rising Burden of Chronic Diseases, Rising Awareness about Medical Tourism and Government Initiatives; Advanced Medical Infrastructure and Medical Care Services. Notable trends are: The Cosmetic Treatment Segment is Expected to Witness Significant Growth During the Forecast Period.

Table of INEBase Excessive delay or inaccessibility of health care due to the waiting list in the last 12 months by sex, country of birth and age group. Population aged 15 years old and over. National. European Health Survey

In 2023, the number of patients waiting for kidney transplant in Turkey totaled approximately 30,000. Additionally, there were over 4,500 patients were active on the liver transplant waiting list in the country.

Where do you usually get your medical care?.