MEDICAL TOURISM IN CRISIS CONDITIONS: FACTORS AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

The article discusses the importance of medical tourism in the context of global crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russo-Ukrainian war. The authors of the article emphasize that the COVID-19 pandemic and war have prompted people to reconsider their attitudes towards healthcare and underscore the importance of quality medical care, which can be provided both locally and globally. The potential of medical tourism as a tool to enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare services is explored. The main factors influencing the development of this field during crises are outlined, and the potential prospects for the development and improvement of medical tourism in extraordinary circumstances are analyzed. The article highlights medical tourism as a means of accessing high-quality treatment and prevention abroad. It is crucial to examine the advantages and disadvantages of this phenomenon, especially in crisis situations. The authors point out the potential of medical tourism as a source of investment and increased revenue in the healthcare and tourism sectors, which becomes relevant when other sources of income may decline during a crisis. It is noted that patients may seek medical assistance abroad due to limitations in the quality or availability of medical services in their own countries during crises. This underscores the importance of exploring how medical tourism can meet the needs of patients and contribute to their improved health and well-being. The impact of crisis situations on regulatory policies related to medical tourism is also discussed, and the need to study possible changes in legislation and regulation in this field is identified. Ukraine is considered a potentially attractive destination for medical tourism due to its unique medical services and opportunities. An analysis of theoretical aspects and prospects for the development of medical tourism can help the country leverage its competitive advantages in this sector. The importance of raising awareness among consumers about the possibilities of obtaining medical services abroad, as well as guarantees of high-quality treatment and patient care, is emphasized.