Prof. Dr. Aysun Bay: Turkey is progressing towards becoming a global leader in health tourism.

The President of the Health Tourism Federation, Prof. Dr. Aysun Bay, emphasized Turkey’s rising leadership in the field of health tourism, stating that digitalization and technological innovations will transform the sector.

Health tourism, as a rapidly growing industry worldwide, not only contributes significantly to the economies of countries but also draws attention with the opportunities it offers to patients. Prof. Dr. Aysun Bay, the President of the Ankara Health Tourism Federation, evaluated the history, current state, and future potential of health tourism.

Prof. Dr. Bay noted that health tourism has evolved into a multifaceted sector aimed at improving the quality of life of individuals, going beyond just travel for treatment purposes. “Recent technological innovations and advancements in treatment methods have contributed to the momentum of health tourism,” said Bay, who also provided significant insights into the future of the sector.

The history of health tourism

Prof. Dr. Aysun Bay stated that health tourism was historically shaped around natural healing centers and spas. However, today, Turkey has become a preferred destination for international patients due to its hospitals equipped with advanced technology and specialized healthcare personnel. “Today, Turkey offers a wide range of healthcare services from aesthetic surgery to orthopedics, and from dental treatments to oncological therapies,” she said.

Turkey as a pioneering country in health tourism

Prof. Dr. Bay also addressed Turkey’s leadership in health tourism. She emphasized that thanks to modern hospitals, experienced physician staff, and high service quality, Turkey holds a significant position in the global health tourism market, stating, “International patients prefer our country to benefit from the healthcare services offered at high standards.”

The future of health tourism: digitalization and innovation

Pointing out that health tourism will further transform with digitalization and technological innovations in the future, Prof. Dr. Aysun Bay mentioned that digital health applications, telemedicine services, and AI-supported diagnostic systems will revolutionize the sector. Bay added, “By adopting these innovative approaches, Turkey will maintain its leadership in the international health tourism market.”

The need for investment and support

Emphasizing that more national and international investments are needed for the further growth and sustainable development of health tourism, Bay stated that infrastructure, promotion, and incentive activities for health tourism should be increased. Prof. Dr. Bay added, “The contribution of health tourism to the country’s economy can be enhanced through cooperation between the public and private sectors.”

New steps in the health tourism sector

Prof. Dr. Bay indicated that they closely follow developments in health tourism and will continue their efforts to make Turkey a global health center. Highlighting the high potential of health tourism in the future, Bay stated, “Health tourism presents a great opportunity to enhance Turkey’s competitiveness in the international arena.”

Health tourism is not only about providing treatment services but is also considered an important area for economic growth and strengthening international collaborations. Prof. Dr. Aysun Bay emphasized that investments in the health tourism sector need to be increased to maintain Turkey’s leadership in this field.