Turkey’s Ambitious Plan to Lead Global Medical Tourism: A New Horizon for Travelers

Published on January 21, 2025

As of January 2025, Turkey has set its sights on becoming the global leader in medical tourism, with the goal of generating US$20 billion in revenue by 2028. This ambitious vision is spearheaded by the country’s International Health Services (USHAŞ), which is working to position Turkey as “the center of healing in the world.” With a rapidly expanding health tourism sector, the country is poised to play an even more significant role in the global travel industry, offering medical and wellness services at a fraction of the cost found in Western countries.

A Growing Global Market for Medical Tourism

Currently, the global medical tourism market is valued at approximately $100 billion. However, industry experts predict that this will surge to $127 billion by 2028, with more travelers seeking affordable yet high-quality healthcare options abroad. This presents a significant opportunity for countries like Turkey, which has already made substantial strides in establishing itself as a top medical tourism destination.

International financial consultants, such as Nomad Capitalist, highlight that medical procedures in Turkey can cost a fraction of the price compared to the U.S. or Europe. For instance, procedures that might cost six figures in Western countries can often be found for just four figures in Turkey, making it an attractive option for people seeking high-quality healthcare at a reduced cost. The reputation of Turkish hospitals, known for their highly-trained, English-speaking medical professionals, further strengthens the country’s appeal as a destination for medical tourists.

Turkey’s Position Among Global Medical Tourism Destinations

In a recent ranking by Nomad Capitalist, Turkey was placed fifth among the top medical tourism destinations worldwide, following India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. The country is particularly recognized for its world-class health treatment centers, including spas, dental clinics, and cosmetic surgery centers. Among Turkey’s notable specialties are eye health treatments, with procedures available at significantly lower costs than in the West. The most expensive ocular procedures in Turkey can be found for around US$3,000, which is a substantial discount compared to typical Western prices.

USHAŞ General Manager Behlül Ünver emphasized that Turkey’s health tourism offerings go beyond traditional medical treatments. The country’s medical tourism sector also encompasses thermal tourism, services for disabled travelers, senior tourism, and wellness practices, further diversifying its appeal to a broader range of global visitors. According to Ünver, Turkey is not only a leader in hair transplants and organ transplantation, but also in a wide range of aesthetic surgeries, dental procedures, and eye treatments, attracting millions of health-conscious travelers annually.

Impressive Growth in Health Tourism

According to recent data from USHAŞ, Turkey earned $3.1 billion from health tourism in 2023, welcoming approximately 1.65 million visitors seeking medical treatment. The figures for 2024 show a similar positive trend, with health tourism continuing to be a significant contributor to the Turkish economy. With Turkey’s efforts to continue building on this momentum, the country aims to increase its health tourism revenue substantially in the coming years.

For travelers, this growth means greater access to affordable, high-quality medical treatments and wellness services. Whether seeking cosmetic surgeries, dental work, or life-saving procedures, visitors can expect world-class services at a fraction of the cost of those in many Western countries. Turkey’s infrastructure is well-equipped to handle the influx of medical tourists, offering an excellent blend of modern healthcare facilities, experienced medical professionals, and the vibrant cultural and historical appeal of the country.

Medical Tourism and the Global Travel Industry

The rise of medical tourism is reshaping global travel patterns, as more individuals are combining their healthcare needs with leisure and cultural experiences. Turkey, with its well-established infrastructure and reputation for quality healthcare, is capitalizing on this trend, attracting not just those seeking medical treatments, but also those looking to enjoy its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences.

For the global travel industry, this trend has significant implications. Travel agencies and tour operators are increasingly offering packages that combine medical treatments with traditional sightseeing, spa, and wellness experiences. Turkey’s medical tourism sector, particularly in cities like Istanbul and Ankara, has begun to see an influx of travelers who arrive for treatments and extend their stays to explore the country’s rich cultural heritage, world-renowned cuisine, and stunning landscapes.

This synergy between medical and leisure travel opens new opportunities for local economies and businesses. From hotels and restaurants to transportation and tour services, the benefits of medical tourism extend beyond the healthcare industry. For example, patients traveling to Turkey for treatment often bring family members or companions, creating demand for additional services and accommodations during their stay.

The Future of Medical Tourism: Sustainability and Growth

While Turkey is already a significant player in the medical tourism market, its vision for the future is even more ambitious. With the goal of reaching US$20 billion in health tourism revenue by 2028, Turkey is investing in infrastructure, technology, and marketing to attract even more medical tourists. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on sustainable and responsible tourism practices within the medical tourism sector.

As travelers become more conscientious about the environmental and social impacts of their trips, Turkey is positioning itself as a leader in responsible tourism. The country’s focus on eco-friendly practices, such as the use of sustainable energy in healthcare facilities and promoting wellness tourism that emphasizes holistic health and well-being, is likely to resonate with a growing segment of global travelers.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Health and Wellness Tourism

Turkey’s focus on becoming a global leader in medical tourism is not only beneficial for the country’s economy but also has profound implications for travelers worldwide. With world-class healthcare services available at a fraction of the cost found in Western countries, Turkey offers an attractive alternative for those seeking high-quality medical treatments. As the country continues to invest in its medical tourism sector, travelers can expect even greater access to affordable and innovative healthcare, coupled with the opportunity to experience the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Turkey.

For the travel industry, Turkey’s success in the medical tourism sector provides valuable lessons in integrating healthcare with leisure travel, creating new opportunities for growth and expansion. As the global demand for medical tourism continues to rise, countries like Turkey are poised to take center stage, offering exceptional services that combine health, wellness, and travel in a way that benefits both visitors and local economies.