Medical Tourism Statistics by Country: Facts, Figures & Destinations
Medical tourism — also called health tourism or healthcare tourism — is the practice of traveling abroad to receive medical treatment. Rising healthcare costs in developed nations, combined with the availability of affordable, high-quality care in other countries, have fueled a surge in patient travel. Despite its rapid growth, compiling accurate health tourism statistics remains challenging. There is no centralized reporting system, national policies vary, and many patients do not disclose that they received care abroad.
Even with these gaps, available data offers valuable insight into medical tourism statistics and facts. Below is an overview of patient numbers, treatment trends, and destinations shaping the industry worldwide.
Global Insights
According to Fortune Business Insights, the global medical tourism market was valued at more than USD 31 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. Patients most often seek care in dentistry, cosmetic and plastic surgery, orthopedics, cardiology, fertility treatments, and oncology.
It’s important to note that the statistics in this article come from the most reliable and official sources available. Many countries only publish limited or older figures, and while patient flows have changed in recent years, these remain the most consistent benchmarks for understanding the scale of health tourism.
Country-by-Country Data
1. Mexico
Mexico welcomed an estimated 1.3 million international patients in 2019, making it one of the busiest destinations for healthcare tourism. Patients, especially from the United States and Canada, often cross the border for bariatric surgery, dental care, cosmetic procedures, stem cell therapy, and orthopedics. Due to its proximity and lower costs, Mexico remains a leading choice for international healthcare.
2. Costa Rica
In 2018, Costa Rica attracted about 100,000 medical travelers, primarily for dental work, cosmetic procedures, and bariatric surgery. The country is known for its combination of affordable healthcare and natural beauty, allowing patients to recover in a relaxing environment.
3. Malaysia
Malaysia reported 1.2 million foreign patients in 2018, driven by treatments in cardiology, fertility, orthopedics, and cosmetic surgery. The nation has invested heavily in its healthcare infrastructure, with government promotion of medical tourism making it one of Asia’s top hubs.
4. Thailand
Thailand recorded about 2.5 million medical tourists in 2018, with demand centered on cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and orthopedic care. The country has long been recognized as a global leader in combining medical treatment with wellness tourism, attracting patients from across Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
5. Turkey
Turkey treated approximately 700,000 international patients in 2019, with hair transplants, cosmetic surgery, and dentistry among the most sought-after services. The country’s competitive pricing, modern hospitals, and strategic location bridging Europe and Asia continue to strengthen its position in the industry.
6. India
India received an estimated 700,000 medical travelers in 2019, primarily seeking cardiology, cancer care, and orthopedic procedures. More recent figures from 2022 value India’s medical tourism sector at around USD 9 billion, serving roughly 2 million patients annually. The country’s advanced medical expertise and affordability make it one of the fastest-growing destinations worldwide.
7. Taiwan
Taiwan hosted roughly 400,000 international patients in 2018, with demand focused on cardiology, fertility treatments, and cosmetic surgery. Its strong national healthcare system, advanced technology, and highly trained professionals continue to attract patients from neighboring countries.
8. South Korea
South Korea welcomed about 248,000 patients in 2022, with specialties in cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and stem cell therapy. Pre-pandemic numbers were much higher, but the country is steadily regaining momentum as a trusted hub for advanced medical procedures and cutting-edge technology.
9. Singapore
Singapore reported around 450,000 inbound patients in 2018, primarily for cardiology, oncology, and orthopedic treatments. Known for its world-class healthcare system, strict regulatory standards, and advanced medical technology, Singapore continues to attract patients seeking reliable, high-quality care.
10. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE received about 350,000 medical tourists in 2018, and by 2022, Dubai alone recorded over 630,000 international patients. Fertility treatments, cosmetic procedures, and orthopedics dominate demand. Heavy government investment in healthcare infrastructure and luxury recovery experiences strengthen its appeal as a medical tourism destination.
11. Brazil
Brazil received about 250,000 international patients in 2019, primarily for cosmetic surgery, dental care, and bariatric surgery. Known worldwide for its cosmetic expertise, Brazil attracts patients from across Latin America, North America, and Europe. Its reputation in aesthetic procedures has made it one of the most recognized names in medical tourism.
12. Hungary
Hungary reported roughly 45,000 medical travelers in 2017, with demand concentrated in dental care, cosmetic surgery, and fertility treatments. The country has positioned itself as a European hub for dental tourism, drawing patients with affordable, high-quality procedures compared to Western Europe.
13. Poland
Poland hosted an estimated 100,000 medical tourists in 2018, with treatments such as dentistry, cosmetic surgery, and fertility procedures leading the way. Poland’s modern clinics and cost advantages make it an attractive healthcare tourism destination for European patients.
14. Israel
Israel received about 60,000 inbound patients in 2018, particularly for fertility treatment, oncology, and neurology. Its advanced medical technology and strong research base position it as a trusted location for complex procedures. Israel remains a unique player in healthcare tourism, balancing affordability with innovation.
15. Germany
Germany reported approximately 200,000 international patients in 2018, with oncology, cardiology, and orthopedics being the most sought-after services. The country’s reputation for precision medicine and strong regulatory standards attract patients who value quality and advanced treatments.
16. Spain
Spain treated about 120,000 foreign patients in 2019, mainly for fertility treatments, cosmetic procedures, and oncology. With its advanced healthcare infrastructure and affordable costs compared to neighboring countries, Spain continues to grow as a reliable option for health tourism seekers.
17. France
France attracted an estimated 120,000 international patients in 2018, with high demand for cosmetic surgery, ophthalmology, and fertility treatments. Patients often choose France because of its advanced healthcare system, reputation for safety, and highly skilled specialists. Its blend of medical care with cultural appeal also enhances its role in global healthcare tourism.
18. Colombia
Colombia welcomed about 55,000 patients in 2018, focusing on cosmetic surgery, dental care, and bariatric procedures. Known as a cosmetic surgery hub in South America, Colombia draws patients from the United States and neighboring countries with affordable prices and skilled surgeons.
19. Panama
Panama recorded around 60,000 international patients in 2017, with cosmetic surgery, dental services, and orthopedic procedures being the top treatments. Its location as a Central American hub, coupled with U.S.-trained doctors and modern hospitals, continues to support its reputation in medical tourism.
20. Czech Republic
The Czech Republic saw approximately 20,000 medical travelers in 2018, primarily for fertility treatment, ophthalmology, and plastic surgery. The country has positioned itself as a leader in reproductive medicine in Europe, drawing patients from the U.K. and across the continent.
21. Argentina
Argentina hosted around 30,000 medical tourists in 2018, offering services in cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and fertility care. With a strong medical infrastructure and a reputation for affordability, Argentina has become a growing choice in health tourism.
22. Jordan
Jordan welcomed approximately 250,000 international patients in 2017, especially for cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and oncology. Known for its advanced hospitals and government support of healthcare tourism, Jordan is one of the Middle East’s most recognized medical destinations.
23. Greece
Greece saw about 25,000 patients in 2018, with fertility treatment, cosmetic surgery, and ophthalmology being the most common services. Affordable fertility care and growing recognition of its medical expertise position Greece as a rising player in medical tourism.
24. Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic hosted an estimated 40,000 inbound patients in 2018, with cosmetic surgery, dental care, and bariatric procedures leading demand. The country’s proximity to the United States and competitive pricing make it a frequent choice for patients seeking healthcare abroad.
25. Egypt
Egypt recorded around 250,000 inbound patients in 2017, with cardiology, cosmetic surgery, and oncology as the main areas of focus. Egypt’s strategic location, combined with affordable treatment costs and expanding private hospital facilities, positions it as an accessible healthcare tourism option in the Middle East and Africa.
26. Portugal
Portugal saw approximately 20,000 international patients in 2018, mainly for fertility treatment, cosmetic procedures, and ophthalmology. Known for its strong fertility sector and modern clinics, Portugal is steadily building a reputation in healthcare tourism across Europe.
27. Croatia
Croatia welcomed an estimated 20,000 medical travelers in 2017, with fertility, cosmetic surgery, and ophthalmology services in high demand. Beyond medical care, patients often combine treatment with Croatia’s established reputation as a travel destination, enhancing its appeal in health tourism.
28. Lithuania
Lithuania attracted about 4,000 patients in 2018, primarily for dental care, cosmetic surgery, and fertility services. Its affordable pricing, alongside EU medical standards, makes it a competitive option for nearby countries seeking healthcare abroad.
29. Latvia
Latvia hosted roughly 3,500 medical tourists in 2018, focusing on dentistry, fertility care, and aesthetic surgery. Known for its highly trained specialists and competitive treatment costs, Latvia continues to build its profile in medical tourism.
30. Estonia
Estonia reported around 2,500 patients in 2017, offering services in dentistry, fertility treatment, and cosmetic care. Its digital health ecosystem and high medical standards add credibility, even with relatively small patient numbers.
31. Bulgaria
Bulgaria treated an estimated 10,000 international patients in 2018, with demand concentrated in fertility treatment, dental care, and cosmetic procedures. Low costs compared to Western Europe, paired with a growing number of private clinics, make Bulgaria a noteworthy option in healthcare tourism.
32. Romania
Romania received about 10,000 inbound patients in 2018, mainly for cosmetic procedures, dental services, and fertility treatments. Its cost advantages and rising reputation for skilled medical professionals support its inclusion in global health tourism market.
33. Russia
Russia welcomed about 10,000 international patients in 2018, with demand centered on dentistry, fertility treatments, and cosmetic surgery. However, in recent years the country has seen a sharp decline in medical tourism due to ongoing political and economic instability, limiting its role in the global market.
34. Slovakia
Slovakia recorded an estimated 10,000 patients in 2018, primarily for fertility treatment, ophthalmology, and cosmetic surgery. The country’s EU medical standards and competitive pricing make it attractive for patients from neighboring nations seeking medical tourism options.
35. Serbia
Serbia treated around 5,000 international patients in 2017, with common services including dental work, fertility treatments, and cosmetic surgery. Its affordability and growing reputation for dentistry are helping Serbia strengthen its position in healthcare tourism.
36. Slovenia
Slovenia attracted about 5,000 medical travelers in 2017, mainly for dental services, fertility care, and cosmetic procedures. As a Schengen-zone country with high-quality private clinics, Slovenia maintains a steady presence in Europe’s medical tourism market.
37. Switzerland
Switzerland received roughly 5,000 inbound patients in 2018, focusing on oncology, orthopedics, and fertility treatment. Known for precision medicine and luxury recovery services, Switzerland markets itself to high-income patients looking for the very best in healthcare tourism.
38. Ukraine
Ukraine hosted an estimated 3,000 patients in 2017, with dental care, fertility services, and cosmetic surgery in demand. However, in recent years the country has seen a sharp decline in medical tourism due to ongoing political and economic instability, limiting its role in the global market.
39. Armenia
Armenia recorded around 2,000 medical travelers in 2018, with fertility, cosmetic surgery, and oncology as leading procedures. Small in scale, Armenia’s medical sector nonetheless attracts patients from nearby countries due to affordability and targeted specialties.
40. Belarus
Belarus also reported approximately 2,000 patients in 2018, focusing on dentistry, fertility care, and cosmetic procedures. Its low-cost structure and improving healthcare standards support its inclusion in global health tourism market.
41. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina hosted around 1,500 international patients in 2018, mainly for dentistry, fertility care, and cosmetic procedures. With affordable private clinics and proximity to Western Europe, it remains a niche but growing name in healthcare tourism.
42. Georgia
Georgia received an estimated 1,500 patients in 2017, primarily for fertility treatments, dental work, and cosmetic procedures. Its affordability and reputation for reproductive health care support its inclusion in the global health tourism market.
43. Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan treated about 1,000 medical travelers in 2018, with cardiology, fertility treatment, and neurology services in demand. Investments in advanced hospital facilities in Almaty and Astana have improved its visibility in the region.
44. Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan attracted roughly 1,000 patients in 2018, focusing on dental care, fertility treatment, and cosmetic surgery. While smaller in scale, its healthcare tourism sector is gradually developing to serve patients from Central Asia.
45. Lebanon
Lebanon welcomed approximately 5,000 international patients in 2018, with cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and oncology as leading services. Despite economic challenges, Lebanon’s long-standing reputation for skilled surgeons keeps it relevant in healthcare tourism.
46. Moldova
Moldova recorded about 1,000 patients in 2018, concentrating on fertility treatment, ophthalmology, and cosmetic care. Its clinics attract patients from neighboring countries seeking affordable medical travel options.
47. Mongolia
Mongolia saw around 1,000 medical tourists in 2019, primarily for cancer treatment, orthopedics, and stem cell therapy. As healthcare infrastructure improves, Mongolia is expanding its presence in medical tourism.
48. Nigeria
Nigeria had an estimated 15,000 outbound medical travelers in 2017, with orthopedics, cardiology, and oncology being the most common reasons for travel. Limited access to specialized care at home drives Nigerians to seek treatment abroad, often in India, South Africa, or Europe.
49. Vietnam
Vietnam reported about 80,000 international patients in 2018, with demand for dental care, cosmetic surgery, and cardiology. Affordable prices, strong private clinics in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, and proximity to other Asian nations make Vietnam an attractive healthcare tourism destination.
50. Cambodia
Cambodia welcomed roughly 40,000 medical travelers in 2018, seeking fertility care, cosmetic procedures, and dental work. While smaller in scale, its affordability and growing private sector keep it present in the global health tourism market.
51. Indonesia
Indonesia attracted approximately 60,000 patients in 2018, with fertility treatments, orthopedic care, and cosmetic surgery as key specialties. As Jakarta and Bali develop modern hospital infrastructure, Indonesia is positioning itself for more medical tourism growth.
52. Myanmar
Myanmar hosted around 10,000 patients in 2018, with services including dentistry, cosmetic surgery, and ophthalmology. However, in recent years the country has seen a sharp decline in medical tourism due to ongoing political and economic instability, limiting its role in the global market.
53. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka treated about 15,000 patients in 2018, primarily for dental, fertility, and cosmetic services. Known for Ayurveda and holistic wellness, the country attracts both medical tourists and wellness travelers.
54. Bangladesh
Bangladesh reported 10,000 international patients in 2018, focusing on fertility treatment, cardiology, and orthopedic care. Many Bangladeshis also travel abroad for healthcare, highlighting demand for cross-border medical tourism.
55. Pakistan
Pakistan received around 5,000 inbound patients in 2018, mainly for orthopedics, cardiology, and dental services. With low costs and skilled doctors, it is gradually increasing visibility in health tourism facts and figures.
56. Tunisia
Tunisia attracted about 70,000 patients in 2018, focusing on fertility treatment, orthopedics, and cosmetic surgery. Its reputation as a hub for IVF and competitive healthcare packages keep it relevant in medical tourism.
57. Morocco
Morocco welcomed nearly 50,000 patients in 2018, with fertility services, dental care, and cardiology in demand. Affordable pricing and improved facilities in Casablanca and Rabat contribute to its growth in healthcare tourism.
58. Mauritius
Mauritius treated around 5,000 patients in 2018, specializing in fertility, ophthalmology, and dental services. Known for combining luxury travel with treatment, Mauritius remains a small but niche market in health tourism statistics.
59. Kenya
Kenya saw about 10,000 inbound patients in 2018, seeking fertility treatment, orthopedic procedures, and cancer care. With Nairobi serving as an East African medical hub, Kenya’s role in health tourism continues to expand.
60. Ghana
Ghana welcomed approximately 5,000 patients in 2017, with dentistry, cardiology, and orthopedic care as leading specialties. Growing private hospitals in Accra and Kumasi are shaping Ghana’s profile in medical tourism facts.
61. South Africa
South Africa reported nearly 500,000 international patients in 2018, largely for cosmetic surgery, fertility services, and cardiology. Its advanced hospitals, English-speaking staff, and appeal as a travel destination make it one of Africa’s strongest health tourism markets.
62. Tanzania
Tanzania hosted around 5,000 patients in 2018, focusing on dental, orthopedic, and fertility treatments. Its location and affordability attract patients from neighboring East African countries.
63. Uganda
Uganda treated about 2,500 inbound patients in 2018, with fertility, ophthalmology, and dental care as top draws. While still developing, Uganda is growing as part of East Africa’s healthcare tourism network.
64. Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe welcomed around 1,000 patients in 2018, with demand for orthopedic, dental, and fertility services. Despite economic challenges, Zimbabwe continues to appear in medical tourism facts due to regional patient flows.
65. Australia
Australia recorded roughly 15,000 international patients in 2018, mostly for cosmetic surgery, ophthalmology, and fertility treatment. With high healthcare standards and a focus on wellness retreats, it represents a premium option in health tourism.
66. Canada
Canada saw about 60,000 inbound patients in 2018, with oncology, cardiology, and fertility treatment as major specialties. Canada’s advanced healthcare system draws international patients despite its relatively high costs in medical travel.
67. United States
The United States attracted close to 1 million inbound patients in 2018, with strong demand for cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and orthopedics. Despite being one of the most expensive healthcare systems in the world, it remains a hub for advanced The United States attracted close to 1 million inbound patients in 2018, with strong demand for cosmetic surgery, dentistry, and orthopedics. Despite being one of the most expensive healthcare systems in the world, it remains a hub for advanced medical treatments due to cutting-edge technology and world-class hospitals. due to cutting-edge technology and world-class hospitals.
68. Austria
Austria hosted approximately 10,000 patients in 2018, with cardiology, ophthalmology, and fertility care as key specialties. Its strong healthcare infrastructure and EU standards position Austria within European health tourism markets.
69. Belgium
Belgium treated around 30,000 patients in 2018, focusing on fertility treatment, ophthalmology, and cosmetic surgery. The country’s long-standing expertise in IVF keeps it important in medical tourism.
70. Denmark
Denmark saw roughly 5,000 patients in 2018, with oncology, cardiology, and fertility treatment as leading services. Its emphasis on specialized care supports its presence in healthcare tourism facts.
71. Finland
Finland welcomed about 5,000 international patients in 2018, with cosmetic surgery, ophthalmology, and fertility services in demand. Its highly regulated healthcare sector ensures quality in health tourism.
72. Iceland
Iceland recorded around 500 patients in 2018, focusing on orthopedic care, fertility, and ophthalmology. While small in scale, Iceland markets itself as a niche destination in healthcare tourism.
73. Norway
Norway received about 5,000 patients in 2018, mainly for fertility, cardiology, and ophthalmology. Its advanced public healthcare system also supports a growing private sector attracting medical travelers.
Conclusion: Global Medical Tourism Statistics and Facts
Medical tourism continues to play a vital role in the global healthcare economy. Across Asia, Latin America, Europe, Africa, and beyond, millions of patients travel each year for procedures ranging from fertility treatments and cardiology to cosmetic surgery and dental care.
The statistics reveal a diverse and expanding market. Established hubs like Thailand, Mexico, and Turkey lead in patient volume, while countries in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa are strengthening their healthcare infrastructure to attract international patients.
The data underscores a clear trend: healthcare tourism is not just about affordability, but also about access to specialized treatments, advanced medical technology, and trusted providers. As more destinations focus on accreditation, patient safety, and transparent communication, global medical tourism will continue to grow as a reliable option for patients seeking quality care across borders.
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Original article from here: https://medicaltourismbusiness.com/medical-tourism-statistics-by-country-facts-figures-destinations/
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