Middle East likely to be hot-spot for Medical Tourism
With increasing healthcare costs and longer wait-duration for undergoing procedures in Asia, Europe, America and Asia, the Middle East is now the leading alternative, cost-effective and world-class destination for the booming medical tourism market, says a leading industry expert.
To achieve global reputation of medical excellence and affordability, the President of Medical Tourism Association, Jonathan Edelheit, believes that the region should continue to foster an environment that is highly favorable for the private operators of healthcare sector.
It is important that the Middle East government continue to create an increased role for private healthcare sector, as it has the required skill set and resources to build more hospitals, establish infrastructure and implement better quality care than the public sector. This is a major factor that will help the region to establish itself as a much sought-after destination for medical tourists, said Edelheit.
According to Edelheit, the global medical tourism industry is likely to grow ten-fold over the next two years, unfolding a dynamic business opportunity to Middle East.
With the regional governments competing to woo high-end medical providers such as the Abu Dhabi’s association with Cleveland Clinic, Johns Hopkins Medicine and Dubai’s association with Harvard Medical International, the region is taking initiative to raise medical operating standards to international levels.
“Medical Tourism is growing manifold each year with more patients travelling overseas for emergencies and cosmetic care. It all depends on how the Middle East can market itself successfully to international audience and build a ‘brand’ reputation for premium, affordable healthcare,” concluded Edelheit.
Posted on 13/4/2008
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