Medical Tourism in Islamic Countries: The Pull Factors Influencing Patients’ Choices
Medical tourism is on the rise in Russia, with a significant increase in the number of foreign patients seeking treatment in the country. According to recent data, in 2022 more than 1.2 million foreigners received medical services in Russia, compared to 300 thousand in 2017. A large portion of these patients come from countries belonging to the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
The top 5 OIC countries whose citizens show the highest interest in receiving medical treatment in Russia are Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. Popular medical areas among these tourists include check-up, transplantation, dentistry, oncology, ophthalmology, neurosurgery, and various surgical specialties.
During the international forum “Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum” in 2023, Minister of Health of the Russian Federation Mihail Murashko highlighted the demand for ophthalmology services among foreign patients, particularly those from Arab countries.
The increase in medical tourism can be attributed to the implementation of the federal project “Development of Export of Medical Services” since 2019. Russia has also seen the development of halal medical tourism, providing specialized services for Muslim tourists seeking treatment during religious tours.
Certified halal sanatoriums in Russia offer visitors the opportunity to improve their health while adhering to Islamic standards. The creation of the “Roskachestvo. Halal” center at the federal level aims to evaluate and certify sanatoriums across the country. The Roskachestvo-Halal certificate is recognized in countries of the Persian Gulf, certain OIC states, and the Customs Union.
Patients choose to come to Russia for medical treatment due to the country’s advanced healthcare technologies, high quality standards, experienced medical professionals, affordable services, and proximity to OIC countries. The topic of medical tourism will be further discussed at the upcoming international forum “Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum” in May 2024 in Kazan, Tatarstan.
Media representatives are invited to participate in the forum and special events for the media. Accreditation can be obtained through the provided links. Join us at KazanForum-2024 to explore the development of medical tourism in Russia and the OIC, as well as the provision of halal medical services.
ORIENT news
Photo: turizm-centr.ru
