Medical tourism X-ray

1. Definition.
Medical tourism is the practice of traveling to another country to receive professional medical attention at a cost lower than in the country of origin.  This includes both elective procedures and specialized surgeries.

2. Main medical tourism destinations

• Costa Rica
• Mexico
• Panama
• Brazil
• Hungary
• India
• Thailand
• South Korea
• Taiwan
• Singapore
• Malaysia
• South Africa
• United Arab Emirates

3. Relevant figures in medical tourism

• In 2006, the medical tourism industry grossed about US$60 billion worldwide, with estimates of reaching US$100 billion by 2012. (McKinsey & Company)
• It is projected that by 2015, the United States will spend over 20% of its annual GDP on medical services.
• By 2015, the potential market in United States will include 220 million individuals over the age of 50.
• Currently, nearly 11,000 individuals turn 50 daily.
• Presently, 47 million Americans do not have health insurance or are under-insured.
• 108 million Americans do not have dental insurance.
• In 2007, an estimated 750,000 Americans traveled to another country for medical attention.
• It is estimated that in 2010 over 6 million Americans will travel abroad to get medical attention.