Medical tourism was valued at ** billion U.S. dollars in 2024 and was forecast to reach a market size of over *** billion U.S. dollars by 2029. Although the coronavirus pandemic put a halt to medical tourism, the market was forecast to recover and increase drastically in the years to come.

How big is the Medical Tourism Market? The Medical Tourism Market size is expected to reach USD 84.92 billion in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 23.03% to reach USD 239.37 billion by 2029.

   What is the current Medical Tourism Market size? 
   In 2024, the Medical Tourism Market size is expected to reach USD 84.92 billion.

   Who are the key players in Medical Tourism Market?
   Healthbase, Apollo Hospitals, KPJ Healthcare, Klinikum Medical Link and Medretreat are the major companies operating in the Medical Tourism Market. 

   Which is the fastest growing region in Medical Tourism Market? 
   Asia Pacific is estimated to grow at the highest CAGR over the forecast period (2024-2029). 

   Which region has the biggest share in Medical Tourism Market? 
   In 2024, the North America accounts for the largest market share in Medical Tourism Market. 

   What years does this Medical Tourism Market cover, and what was the market size in 2023? 
   In 2023, the Medical Tourism Market size was estimated at USD 65.36 billion. The report covers the Medical Tourism Market historical market size for years: 2021, 2022 and 2023. The report also forecasts the Medical Tourism Market size for years: 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028 and 2029.

   What is the dominant segment contributing to the largest market share in Medical Tourism? 
   Cosmetic Treatment is the dominant segment that holds the major share of the Medical Tourism Market.

   The Global Medical Tourism Market Report provides a comprehensive industry analysis of the medical tourism market, segmented by treatment type and geography. The market overview highlights the various treatment types including cosmetic, dental, cardiovascular, orthopedics, bariatric, fertility, ophthalmic, and other treatments. The industry statistics indicate significant market growth driven by the increasing demand for affordable and high-quality medical care.<br><br>In terms of market segmentation, the report covers North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa, and South America, providing a detailed market forecast for each region. The industry size and market value are presented in terms of USD, reflecting the market's economic impact. The market trends and growth rate are analyzed to provide insights into future market predictions.<br><br>The report also includes an industry outlook, focusing on key market leaders and their strategies. The market review highlights the competitive landscape and the role of both private and public healthcare service providers. Additionally, the report examines alternative treatment options and their market share.<br><br>For those seeking more detailed information, the report example and report pdf are available for further industry research. The market data and industry reports offer valuable insights for companies looking to understand the market dynamics and make informed decisions. The industry trends and market outlook provide a clear picture of the market's future direction.<br><br>Overall, the Global Medical Tourism Market Report is an essential resource for understanding the market's growth forecast and industry worth. It provides a thorough market analysis and industry information, making it a valuable tool for research companies and stakeholders in the medical tourism industry.

   Medical Tourism Also Known As: Patient Mobility, Transnational Healthcare, Therapeutic Tourism, Medical Vacation, Health Travel

   Medical Tourism Report Covers the Following Regions: NA, North America, North American, Northern America, Northern American, EU, Europe, European, APAC, Asia Pacific, Asian, MEA, Middle East and Africa, Middle Eastern and African, MENA, Middle East, Middle Eastern, SA, South America, South American

   Medical Tourism Report Covers the Following Countries: USA, United States, US, Canada, Mexican, Mexico, DE, Germany, German, UK, United Kingdom, FR, France, French, IT, Italy, Italian, ES, Spain, Spanish, China, Chinese, JP, Japan, Japanese, IN, India, Indian, AU, Australia, Australian, KR, South Korea, South Korean, GCC, Gulf Cooperation Council, ZA, South Africa, South African, BR, Brazil, Brazilian, AR, Argentina, Argentine

In the 2020-2021 global medical tourism ranking based on ** destinations, Canada came first with an index score of *****. The index is based on ratings of the destination environment, the medical tourism industry, and the quality of facilities and services. This statistic presents the leading 20 countries worldwide based on the total medical tourism index score in 2020.

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Medical Tourism Market Size 2025-2029

The medical tourism market size is valued to increase USD 132.8 billion, at a CAGR of 36.6% from 2024 to 2029. Availability of low-cost treatment options will drive the medical tourism market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 34% growth during the forecast period.
By Source - Domestic segment was valued at USD 10.20 billion in 2023
By Service Type - Private segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 1.00 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD 132.80 billion
CAGR : 36.6%
APAC: Largest market in 2023

Market Summary

The market encompasses the global healthcare industry's trend of patients traveling to different countries for more affordable and advanced medical treatments. Core technologies and applications, such as telemedicine and medical tourism platforms, are revolutionizing the industry, making it more accessible and convenient for patients. Medical tourism is projected to reach a value of USD 102.2 billion by 2023, representing a significant growth in demand for low-cost treatment options. However, the market faces challenges, including the lack of advanced infrastructure in developing nations and regulatory complexities.
Despite these hurdles, the growing focus on technological advancements offers immense opportunities for market expansion and innovation. For instance, the adoption rate of telemedicine is expected to reach 70% by 2025, providing a viable solution for patients seeking affordable and accessible healthcare services.

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

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How is the Medical Tourism Market Segmented and what are the key trends of market segmentation?

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.

Source

  Domestic
  International


Service Type

  Private
  Public


Type

  Cardiovascular treatment
  Cosmetic treatment
  Fertility treatment
  Orthopedics treatment
  Others


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    Germany
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Singapore
    South Korea


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Source Insights

The domestic segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is experiencing substantial growth, with patient referral networks and healthcare translation services playing crucial roles in connecting patients with specialized medical facilities. According to recent estimates, the market for medical tourism is projected to expand by 25% by 2025, driven by increasing demand for affordable, high-quality healthcare services. Healthcare facility accreditation, cultural sensitivity training, and patient transport logistics are essential considerations for medical tourism facilitators, ensuring ethical and effective care for international patients. Regulations governing medical tourism are evolving, with a focus on quality assurance programs, remote patient monitoring, and destination healthcare choices. Treatment outcome metrics, medical visa requirements, and patient satisfaction surveys are essential indicators of market performance.

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The Domestic segment was valued at USD 10.20 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Telemedicine consultations and treatment cost comparisons enable patients to make informed decisions about their care, while advanced medical equipment and diagnostic imaging technology contribute to improved treatment outcomes. Procedural specialization centers, digital health platforms, pre-operative assessments, and post-operative recovery services are key areas of innovation, with personalized treatment plans and cross-border healthcare access becoming increasingly important. The integration of ethical considerations and second medical opinions further enhances the value proposition of medical tourism, attracting an increasing number of patients seeking advanced surgical procedures and specialized care. From 2025 to 2029, the domestic segment of the market is expected to grow by 30%, driven by hospital infrastructure quality, quality assurance programs, and the increasing popularity of medical travel packages.

The ongoing unfolding of these trends underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of the medical tourism industry, offering significant opportunities for growth and innovation across various sectors.

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Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 34% to the growth of the

In 2022, ********** was the leading country of origin for medical tourists visiting India, accounting for over two-thirds of arrivals. Iraq followed with *** percent. India is famous for medical tourism due to its cost-effective treatment, technologically advanced hospitals, and provision of specialized doctors.

The global medical tourism market is booming, projected to reach [estimated 2033 market size in billions] by 2033, with a CAGR of 18.41%. Discover key drivers, trends, and restraints shaping this rapidly expanding sector, including leading players and regional market shares. Recent developments include: February 2024: The governments of Thailand and Saudi Arabia entered a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop the medical tourism industry in both countries. As Thailand is a popular destination for seeking medical treatments for international patients, including Saudi Arabia, the developments in medical tourism in Thailand are expected to promote medical tourism in the country.January 2024: Parexel and the Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research (JFCR) strategically collaborated to accelerate the accessibility of oncology clinical trials in Japan and open wide opportunities for patients to participate in cancer research in Japan.. Key drivers for this market are: High Treatment Cost in Developed Countries, Availability of Latest Medical Technologies and High Quality of Service; Growing Compliance of International Quality Standards. Potential restraints include: High Treatment Cost in Developed Countries, Availability of Latest Medical Technologies and High Quality of Service; Growing Compliance of International Quality Standards. Notable trends are: Cosmetic Treatment Segment is Expected to Witness Significant Growth During the Forecast Period.

Global Medical Tourism market size was USD 110.12 Billion in 2022 and it is forecasted to reach USD 250.74 Billion by 2030. Medical Tourism Industry's Compound Annual Growth Rate will be 10.8% from 2023 to 2030. Factors Impacting on Medical Tourism Market!

The increasing number of chronic diseases and growing technological advancements in medical devices for the treatment of various health disorders are some of the key major factors accelerating the growth of the medical tourism market. Furthermore, the increasing support by tourist departments and governments across the globe is surging market growth. Moreover, due to the high treatment cost and lack of treatment options in some countries, people seek medical tourism across developed countries where advanced medical treatment is available resulting in propelling market expansion.

Market Dynamics of

Medical Tourism Market

Key Drivers for

Medical Tourism Market

Cost differences for premium care: In developing markets like India, Thailand, and Mexico, patients from wealthy countries may save 30 to 70% on treatments such dental work and cardiac surgery. Shorter wait times for elective procedures: Patients who are facing lengthy queues in public healthcare systems are drawn to nations that have expedited medical visa procedures (such as Canada, the United Kingdom). Availability of sophisticated specialty treatments: Patients from all over the world are drawn to centers of excellence in robotic surgery (South Korea), fertility treatments (Spain), and cosmetic surgery (Brazil).

Key Restraints for

Medical Tourism Market

Post-treatment complication risks: Risks of post-treatment complications include the absence of legal recourse for wrongdoing committed abroad and difficulties in obtaining follow-up treatment, which dissuade potential medical tourists. Travel restrictions and visa issues: The pandemic-era border restrictions and evolving immigration laws have caused unforeseen disruptions in patient flow. Data privacy concerns: GDPR/HIPAA compliance difficulties hinder the sharing of health records across national borders, which restricts the coordination of care.

Key Trends for

Medical Tourism Market

Medical tourism with a focus on digital technologies: Telehealth consultations before and after the trip help shorten the trip duration, and some providers provide hybrid care models. Integration of wellness tourism: Patients combine treatments (such as knee replacement) with recovery retreats (thermal spas in Hungary, yoga in Bali). Insurance collaborations: To lower employers' healthcare expenses, US and European insurers now include overseas network hospitals in premium plans. What is Medical Tourism?

Medical tourism is a term used to describe the practice of traveling to another country or region to receive medical treatment or procedures. The reasons for medical tourism can vary but often include seeking lower costs for medical procedures, accessing treatments that are not available in the patient's home country, or looking for more specialized or advanced medical care.

This statistic shows the value of the leading medical travel destinations worldwide as of 2018. As of that time, medical tourism in the United States was valued at around *** billion U.S. dollars.

Medical Tourism Market grows from USD 58.7 billion in 2024 to USD 176.9 billion by 2034 at 24.7% CAGR driven by cost savings & quality care abroad, Unlock global healthcare insights & forecasts today

The Outbound Medical Tourism Market is estimated to be valued at USD 275.5 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 825.6 billion by 2035, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.6% over the forecast period.

Global Tourism Market size was worth around $11.39 trillion in 2023 and is predicted to grow to around $18.44 trillion by 2032 with a CAGR of 5.5%.

In 2019, medical tourism brought more than *** billion U.S. dollars to Colombia's economy. This figure is expected to increase to ***** billion dollars by 2024. In 2018, a total of ****** tourists visited the South American country for medical purposes.

The global health and wellness tourism market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing health consciousness, rising disposable incomes, and a growing desire for preventative healthcare and holistic well-being. The market, estimated at $700 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% from 2025 to 2033, reaching approximately $2.1 trillion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases is prompting individuals to seek alternative and preventative healthcare options often found within wellness tourism packages. Secondly, the rise of digital platforms and online booking systems has made accessing and booking wellness travel experiences easier than ever before, further boosting market penetration. Finally, the increasing integration of technology into wellness offerings, such as telehealth and wearable health trackers, is enhancing the overall experience and attracting a wider demographic. Segmentation within the market reveals significant opportunities. The "Medical Care Health Tourism" segment is expected to dominate, driven by the affordability and accessibility of advanced medical procedures in certain regions. However, "Ecological Health Tourism" and "Sports and Leisure Health Tourism" are witnessing strong growth, appealing to those seeking holistic wellness experiences coupled with adventure and environmental engagement. Geographically, North America and Europe currently hold the largest market shares, but Asia-Pacific is emerging as a significant growth driver due to rapid economic development and increasing awareness of wellness practices. While challenges exist, including economic fluctuations and varying healthcare regulations across different regions, the long-term outlook for the health and wellness tourism sector remains overwhelmingly positive, poised for continued expansion and diversification in the coming years.

Discover the booming outbound medical tourism market! This comprehensive analysis reveals key trends, growth drivers, and regional insights for 2025-2033, including data on cosmetic surgery, dental, cardiovascular, and cancer treatments. Learn about leading companies and investment opportunities in this rapidly expanding sector.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Outbound Medical Tourism Services Market size was USD 258695.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.20% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 103478.08 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 77608.56 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 59499.90 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 12934.7 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.6% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 5173.90 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.9% from 2024 to 2031.
The cosmetic surgery category is the fastest growing segment of the Outbound Medical Tourism Services Market

Market Dynamics of Outbound Medical Tourism Services Market

Key Drivers for Outbound Medical Tourism Services Market

Cost Savings from Medical Procedures Abroad Drive Growth in Outbound Medical Tourism Services Market

One of the primary drivers of the Outbound Medical Tourism Services Market is the significant cost savings associated with medical procedures abroad. In many developed countries, healthcare costs are exorbitantly high, making treatments financially inaccessible for a large segment of the population. Countries like India, Thailand, and Mexico offer high-quality medical care at a fraction of the price, attracting patients seeking surgeries, dental work, and other medical services. This affordability is particularly appealing for elective procedures and complex surgeries that may require extensive financial outlay in their home countries, thus propelling the growth of the outbound medical tourism sector.

Rising Quality of Healthcare Services Abroad Driving Outbound Medical Tourism Through Enhanced Patient Assurance and Infrastructure Investments

The increasing quality of healthcare services in various countries is another vital driver of the Outbound Medical Tourism Services Market. Many destinations known for medical tourism have made substantial investments in their healthcare infrastructure, often meeting or exceeding international standards. Hospitals and clinics in these regions frequently receive accreditations from prestigious organizations, which reassures THE patients about quality of care they will receive. Furthermore, the availability of advanced medical technology and skilled healthcare professionals enhances the attractiveness of these destinations. As patients become more informed about healthcare quality abroad, the trend of seeking treatment overseas continues to rise.

Key Restraint for Outbound Medical Tourism Services Market

Challenges and Legal Risks in Outbound Medical Tourism Hinder Market Growth and Patient Confidence in Seeking Treatment Abroad

Despite the numerous benefits of outbound medical tourism, potential patients often face regulatory challenges and legal risks that can act as a restraint on market growth. The lack of standardized regulations across different countries can create uncertainty for patients regarding the quality of care and legal recourse in case of malpractice or complications. Moreover, navigating the legal landscape in a foreign country can be daunting for patients who may not be familiar with local laws or healthcare regulations. This uncertainty can deter individuals from pursuing medical treatments abroad, as concerns about the safety and efficacy of procedures remain prominent.

Key Trend for Outbound Medical Tourism Services Market

Premiumization and digital transformation are major trends propelling the expansion of outbound medical tourism.

Patients are increasingly looking for premium treatments such as robotic operations, advanced oncology, and cutting-edge fertility treatments in top-tier locations, indicating a change in the outbound medical tourism market toward high-value, specialized care. The patient journey is being ...

Discover the booming outbound medical tourism market! This in-depth analysis reveals a $150 billion industry with a 5% CAGR, exploring key drivers, trends, restraints, and regional market shares across North America, Europe, and Asia. Learn about leading companies and future projections for this rapidly expanding sector.

Middle East medical tourism market size reached USD 6,392.6 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 13,158.6 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 8.35% during 2025-2033. The increasing advances in transportation and communication, which have made it easier for patients to travel for medical purposes, are driving the market.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the regional and country level for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on treatment type and service provider.

The Turkey medical tourism industry growth is predicted to surge at a CAGR of 6.1% during the forecast period. The industry is standing at USD 3.97 billion as of 2024 and is on its way forward to cross USD 7.18 billion by 2034.

Semi Annual Industry Update

Category-wise Insights

The global cross-border medical tourism market is experiencing robust growth, driven by factors such as increasing healthcare costs in developed nations, advancements in medical technology readily available in certain regions, and a rising preference for superior healthcare services. The market size in 2025 is estimated at $15 billion, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 18% during the forecast period (2025-2033). This significant growth trajectory is propelled by several key trends including the increasing affordability of international travel, improved communication and access to information regarding medical tourism options, and the emergence of specialized medical tourism facilitators that simplify the process for patients. Leading players like Apollo Hospitals Group, Bumrungrad International Hospital, and Quirónsalud are leveraging these trends, investing in advanced facilities and marketing strategies to capture market share. However, the market faces certain restraints including concerns about the quality of care in some international destinations, regulatory hurdles and varying healthcare standards, and potential risks related to travel and medical complications. Addressing these concerns through increased transparency, robust regulatory frameworks, and improved patient support systems will be crucial for sustainable market growth. The projected market size by 2033 is anticipated to reach approximately $60 billion, reflecting the strong growth potential. This expansion will be significantly influenced by ongoing technological advancements in medical procedures, increasing medical insurance coverage that includes international treatment options, and improved cross-border healthcare collaborations. Further segmentation analysis focusing on specific procedures (e.g., cosmetic surgery, cardiology, orthopedics), patient demographics, and regional variations will offer a deeper understanding of market dynamics and potential investment opportunities. The ongoing consolidation of healthcare providers, strategic alliances, and the increasing role of digital health technologies are expected to further reshape the landscape of the cross-border medical tourism industry over the coming years.

A medical tourist is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a person who travels across international borders to receive some form of medical treatment, most commonly dental care, cosmetic surgery, and fertility treatments. Japanese made up the largest share of medical tourists to South Korea in 2024, at around ** percent of inbound tourists, followed by Chinese tourists. The number of patients from all countries recorded the highest ever since, after recovering from the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Korea first permitted foreign patients in 2009, and since then, about **** million international medical tourists have come to Korea, with over *********** in 2024 alone. Why is Korea so popular? South Korea is a popular destination for medical tourism, being one of the leading countries for inbound medical tourism worldwide. One reason is that Korea has modern and advanced medical facilities and staff. Korea also has a reputation for superior cosmetic surgeries and high-quality beauty products. Many foreigners visit Korea for cosmetic surgeries, and even more foreigners purchase Korean beauty products. In addition, some treatments are covered by the public health insurance system. This means even foreigners can receive treatment at low cost. Together with the increasing popularity of K-pop and K-drama, the number of Japanese patients grew by *** percent compared to the previous year. Korean public health insurance in the red A problem with medical tourists is they put strain onto the Korean public health insurance system. For years, there were claims that insurance payments were too low compared to the medical expenses. Public health insurance has been in the black since 2011, but this was because the average employer-insured employee paid twice as much as they actually benefited from. The average monthly payment was around ******* South Korean won, and the total revenue of the national health insurance in South Korea amounted to around **** trillion South Korean won. Hundreds of thousands of foreigners are exacerbating the situation and the government is taking action. For example, foreigners living in Korea for more than six months are now required to register for public health insurance. Prior to 2019, registration was optional for foreigners and as a result, foreigners took advantage of insurance coverage without paying for it.