Medical tourism may be defined as travel abroad to seek quicker, value-for-money and safer medical care. Various factors have encouraged many people from developed nations to go abroad in order to receive high quality healthcare. These factors include costs, ease and affordability of international travel, long waiting lists in many countries as well as improving medical technology standards in many regions of the world.

Medical tourism is known to have existed yet in ancient Greece. Patients from the Mediterranean region used to go the sanctuary of healing god Asklepios at Epidaurus, which was the most celebrated healing centre. In the 18th century, well-to-do Europeans visited the Mediterranean spas. Today medical tourism is no longer only for the wealthy. Because of low cost treatment and transportation services, medical treatment abroad is affordable for people with average income as well. The holiday relaxation, fun, and leisure combined with medical treatment are now a common type of vacation.

For hospitals, medical tourism is an opportunity to exploit the international market. Advancements in technology, better transportation facilities and the search for quality medical care have forced healthcare providers work globally. People go long distances in search for top doctors and clinics. Healthcare providers are investing in most modern technology. In addition, they offer non-medical services such as pick-up, hospitality services, spa facilities, etc. in order to make their international clients’ stay comfortable and pleasant.

One of the main reasons why many people go for healthcare abroad is the comparatively lower prices. Many people in America, where the healthcare costs are very high, simply cannot afford a $35,000 hip replacement surgery at home. Another reason is that the public healthcare systems are overloaded in developed nations, so traveling to other country for urgent treatment is a way out of the problem. In case of plastic surgery, medical tourism guarantees anonymity. Many individuals find it advantageous to go "on holiday" and come back home refreshed and younger, and no one knows about the received plastic surgery.

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