Once again, this year we have been able to enjoy a visit to Fitur, one of the most important international tourism fairs in the world. This the second year that a particular focus has been placed on tourism related to health and wellness, namely Medical Tourism and Wellness Tourism.
Spain as a Health Tourism destination
By way of the talks included in the “Keys, tools and opportunities to attract international patients” programme, we have verified that the backing of this type of tourism has not been in vain, indeed Spain, due to its characteristics, could very well become a global leader in this sector. In fact, as pointed out by the company presidents of Mediterranean Healthcare, of Tourism & Health Costa del Sol and Barcelona Medical Agency, we are not only ready and qualified to treat international patients, we know how to do it. However, we still have to adjust our mentality: we not only treat tourists who get ill, we also treat patients who travel.
Spain as a Medical Tourism destination
During the various presentations that were carried out during Fitur Salud, it became obvious that Spain could undoubtedly become a top destination for Medical Tourism in the world, already being a global leader in tourism which finds itself among the top 3 in the world, according to the UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organization). Furthermore, it has one of the best healthcare systems in the world with internationally-renowned specialists and at the forefront of development of new procedures, treatment and technology.
The presentations showed that the specialities most in demand in Spain by international patients are:
- Cardiology
- Orthopaedics &Trauma
- Ophthalmology
- Assisted Reproduction
- Weight Loss Surgery
- Aesthetic Medicine and Plastic Surgery
The quality in Spain: a characteristic to be highlighted
Owing to the necessity to provide quality certification and accreditation for international clients over the years, facilitators and insurers when selecting a destination and medical centre emphasised the interest that exists in Spain to validate their products and services, particularly in the hospitality and health sectors.
According to AENOR (Spanish Association for Standardisation and Certification):
Spain holds fourth place in Europe for quality certification. Our public and private healthcare organisations have put quality at the top of their list for many years now which places them in a very competitive position globally.
The very important role of Medical Tourism Facilitators
Another of the aspects which was repeatedly highlighted was the fundamental role that medical tourism facilitators play in the marketing of a destination and attracting possible patients. Furthermore, their knowledge of the logistics involved throughout the entire procedure is vital for guaranteeing a positive and successful experience for both the patients and those accompanying them.
All of these aspects, together with the considerable number of attendees and exhibitors at the event, makes us want to keep working surely and steadily along these lines. If we continue in the right direction, we will undoubtedly ensure that Health Tourism in Spain becomes a solid leader in the sector.
Canary Medical Key – Medical Tourism Facilitator
