Medical tourism OR Health Tourism can be elaborated as the provision of 'cost effective' private medical care in collaboration with the Tourism Industry for patients needing surgical or non-surgical and other specialized medical treatment. This concept of health tourism is jointly facilitated by the corporate sector involved in medical and healthcare as well as the tourism industry - both public sector as well as private players. In the current era Medical tourism is fast shaping up as a common form of vacationing, and covers a broad spectrum of medical services. Medical tourism mixes leisure, fun and relaxation together with spirituality, wellness and healthcare. A combination of many factors has lead to the recent increase in popularity of medical tourism. Some of the prominent reasons being

• Exorbitant cost of healthcare and medical facilities in developed countries
• Ease and affordability of international travel
• Favorable currency exchange rates in the rapidly developing global economy
• Rapidly improving technology and high standards of medical care in the developing countries
• Improvement in awareness levels of people globally

Saudi Arabia has originated as one of the most important hubs for medical toursim. Many people from the first world or developed countries come down to Saudi Arabia for the rejuvenation promised by mighty Yoga and Ayurvedic therapies however, a rich blend of top-notch medical expertise at attractive pricing is helping more and more Saudi Arabian corporate hospitals to ensure regular flow of non-resident Saudi Arabians as well as foreign patients, including patients from developed nations such as the UK and the US, for surgeries like Cardiac By Pass Surgery, Valve Replacement, Knee / Hip Replacement, Dental Procedures, Dermatological procedures, Faciomaxillary and Implant surgeries etc.

Greater number of patients from Europe, USA and other less affluent nations like the African subcontinent countries with high medical costs look for effective options, health tourism's growth in Saudi Arabia is certain. The fast growing Saudi Arabian corporate health sector is fully geared to deliver and meet the high international standards.

Beyond cost savings or the high standard of medicare facility, the waiting time also takes it's toll. Wait time is much lower for any treatment in Saudi Arabia than in most first world country. Medical attention is often an emergency and the patient's situation may turn worse if the treatment is delayed. While one may need to wait for several months to undergo a surgical procedure in the US, in Saudi Arabia the same can be carried out without any wait time.

Medical Tourism in Saudi Arabia - Medical Tourism Saudi Arabia - Healthcare Tourism - at a glance

• costeffective medical treatment
• High quality of medical care
• No wait time
• Fluent English speaking staff
• Personalised care
• Access to non-conventional medical facilities
• Patients can rejuvenate with Ayurveda and other therapies
• Rich cultural heritage - Saudi Arabia is a shoppers paradise for those who love artifacts