Medical tourism to Turkey steps into the global spotlight

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Turkey, with its unique blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, has long been a top tourist destination. However, over the past decade, the country has carved out a niche for itself in a new kind of tourism: medical tourism. Every year, thousands of international patients flock to Turkey to seek high-quality, affordable medical treatments. If you’ve ever wondered what makes Turkey a standout destination for medical treatments, here are 12 compelling facts.

1. Competitive Prices

Turkey offers medical treatments at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries. For instance, the “All-on-4” dental implant procedure, a revolutionary treatment that replaces an entire set of teeth with just four implants, can cost between $20,000 to $30,000 in the USA. In contrast, in Turkey, the same procedure often ranges from $6,000 to $10,000. On average, whether for dental procedures, cosmetic surgeries, or complex neurological operations, patients can expect to save up to 50 to 60% when opting for medical treatments in Turkey.

2. World-Class Facilities

With over 50 JCI-accredited hospitals, Turkey stands out as having the highest number of accredited health institutions in the world after the USA according to the Joint Commission International.

3. Cutting-Edge Technology

Turkish hospitals have invested heavily in state-of-the-art medical equipment, ensuring that patients receive care that is on par or even surpasses what’s available in other leading medical destinations.

4. Skilled Medical Professionals

Many of Turkey’s physicians and surgeons have been trained in Europe and the US, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their practices.

5. Comprehensive Health Packages

Medical institutions in Turkey often provide all-inclusive packages that cover not only the treatment but also accommodation and transfers between the airport, hotel, and the clinic. This streamlined approach ensures a hassle-free experience for international patients.

6. Hair Transplantation Hub

Turkey, particularly Istanbul, is renowned for its expertise in hair transplantation. The city alone has over 350 clinics specializing in hair restoration with prices starting from as little as £1,800. The combination of experienced hair transplant surgeons, state-of-the-art procedures, and affordable rates makes it a top destination for those seeking to restore their hairline.

7. Pioneering in Dentistry and Plastic Surgery

Turkey boasts a significant number of top-tier dental and plastic surgery clinics. Advanced dental treatments, ranging from dental implants to cosmetic dentistry, are offered at highly competitive rates. Additionally, Turkey’s plastic surgeons have garnered global acclaim for both their skill and the artistic techniques they employ, making the nation a go-to for many seeking aesthetic enhancements such as surgical rhinoplasty (nose jobs) and blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery).

8. Accessible Location

Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey is easily accessible from both continents. For travellers from major cities, here are some average flight durations:

· London (UK) to Istanbul: Approx. 4 hours

· Berlin (Germany) to Istanbul: Approx. 3 hours 30 minutes

· Paris (France) to Istanbul: Approx. 3 hours 45 minutes

· Dubai (UAE) to Istanbul: Approx. 4 hours 30 minutes

· Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) to Istanbul: Approx. 3 hours 45 minutes

· New York (USA) to Istanbul: Approx. 10 hours With direct flights from these and other global cities, Turkey proves to be a conveniently located medical tourism destination.

9. Holistic Wellness and Spas

Beyond traditional medicine, Turkey is home to many world-renowned thermal spas and wellness centers, particularly in regions like Pamukkale and Afyon, offering therapeutic treatments in picturesque settings.

10. Rapid Growth in Medical Tourists

Statistics indicate a surge from nearly 75,000 medical tourists in 2008 to over 700,000 in 2019 (Republic of Turkey Ministry of Health). This tenfold increase showcases Turkey’s rising prominence in the medical tourism industry.

11. Multilingual Staff

To cater to international patients, many hospitals in Turkey employ multilingual staff, ensuring clear communication and understanding throughout the treatment process.

12. A Cultural and Historical Hub with a Medical Legacy

While recovering or awaiting procedures, patients have the chance to explore Turkey’s rich cultural tapestry, from the ancient ruins of Ephesus to the bustling bazaars of Istanbul. But Turkey’s history isn’t just about grand empires and ancient sites. A dive into its past reveals figures like Serefeddin Sabuncuoğlu, a 15th-century surgeon and physician who authored the first illustrated surgical atlas in the Islamic world. This underlines Turkey’s long-standing association with medical advancements and its commitment to healthcare through the ages. It’s not just a medical tourism destination but a place where history and health intertwine.

As the global landscape of healthcare evolves, medical tourists are seeking destinations that offer a blend of quality, affordability, and experience. Turkey, with its commitment to medical excellence and its rich cultural offerings, stands tall as a premier destination for patients seeking treatment abroad.

Turkey is one among many global destinations catering to the diverse needs of medical tourists. At Medical Travel Market, our mission is to work with leading destinations around the world, ensuring that patients are facilitated with the best care options suited to their needs.