What is Medical Tourism
Medical Tourism is the practice of travelling across the borders to obtain healthcare
services in another country where medical expenses are relatively lower and the
services sought are equivalent to or better than those available in one’s
own country.
The Thai government began strategic plans since 2004 to promote Thailand as a prime
medical tourism destination. Since then, the country has enjoyed a large number
of visitors in this category. The Department of Export Promotion and the Department
of Health Service Support reported a rapid growth of 16.48% during 2001-2009 for
health services delivery to foreigners:
|
2003
|
973,532
|
110,058
|
|
2004
|
1,103,095
|
198,054
|
|
2005
|
1,249,984
|
309,318
|
|
2006
|
1,330,000
|
12,939
|
|
2007
|
1,373,807
|
106,640
|
|
2008
|
1,380,000
|
107,419
|