Multi-dimensional Analysis of Medical and Wellness Tourism as a Sector of National Economy: Current Challenges, and Future Perspectives

Relevance. Medical and wellness tourism plays a significant role in contemporary economics by shaping regional markets, attracting substantial financial resources, and fostering innovative developments in national healthcare systems. The purpose of the study is to reveal the mechanisms underlying the operation of medical tourism, and formulates practical recommendations for market participants. Research methods. The author uses a combination of theoretical-analytic and  empirical approaches: review of scientific literature and systematic analysis of publications and statistical materials; conceptual data modeling (ERD); use of Python programming tools for hypothesis testing, detecting trends and qualitative evaluation of prospective development of the industry. Scientific novelty. The paper presents new definitions and detailed comparison of various stages of development of medical tourism, highlighting contemporary risk factors and approaches to the integration of technologies that shape the circumstances for increasing the competitiveness of countries in the medical tourism market. Main results. Stages of transformation and dynamics of medical tourism’s development were established including cross-cultural dimensions and digitalizing of medical tourism. Practical Value. The article provides recommendations for shaping efficient strategy of medical tourism, optimizing of legislation, improving marketing strategies, etc. The findings can be useful for government bodies, leaders of medical institutions, and professionals in the field of medical tourism. 

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