Medical Tourism Travel Motivations : The Push and Pull Driving Forces

Yap, Chu Chang and Norazirah, Ayob (2024) Medical Tourism Travel Motivations : The Push and Pull Driving Forces. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 14 (11). pp. 1770-1787. ISSN 2222-6990

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Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted the medical tourism industry, leading to a decline in international travel and healthcare services. However, as the world recovers from the pandemic, understanding the factors that influence medical tourism decisions remains crucial for industry growth. This study investigates the push and pull factors that motivate individuals to seek medical treatment abroad in the post-pandemic era. By examining these factors through the lens of the push-pull theory, the research explores the motivations of people pursuing medical treatment overseas. Primary draw factors for medical tourism include economic efficiency, reduced waiting times, an extensive array of therapies, enhanced healthcare quality, attractive locations, and cutting-edge technology. Conversely, push factors compelling individuals to abandon domestic healthcare include financial obstacles, protracted wait times, restricted treatment options, substandard quality, absence of insurance, and legal constraints. The report analyses these elements to offer insights into attracting medical tourism. Furthermore, it provides a comprehensive understanding of how firms can effectively utilize both push and pull forces to attract medical tourists and address the diverse needs of a global market seeking affordable, high-quality healthcare.

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