The concept of Medical Tourism is not a new one. It has been practiced by wealthy Europeans and Asians for decades, as they travel to other countries to receive superior technology backed medical attention from experts. In fact, first recorded instance of Medical Tourism dates back to thousands of years when Greeks traveled from all over the Mediterranean to the small territory in the Saronic Gulf called Epidauria. Epidauria is considered to be the original travel destination for medical tourism where treatment was imparted by healing god Asklepios. Indulging in Therapeutic baths at hot springs was a common practices in Rome and also had lounges, Art Facilities, Conference Halls, Brothels, Sports Stadium etc. to entertain the elite.Alternative medicines and ways of treatment have since long attracted the Western world to culturally rich countries like India.
Medical Tourism boomed in 16th century in Europe when the elite rediscovered Roman baths. In 19th century as there were no travel restrictions peoples visited neighbouring countries to improve their health. Alternative medicines and ways of treatment have since long attracted the Western world to culturally rich countries like India.
However in 21st century medical tourism has expanded on a much greater scale. Most popular destinations are India, Thailand, Argentina, Cuba and other countries for medical tourism, complicated surgeries, organ transplants, Dental Surgery, Cosmetic Plastic surgeries are the most popular procedures. Today we have reached an era where Hospitals are more like spas and vice – versa. |
