The Potential for Medical Tourism in Pakistan

The Potential for Medical Tourism in Pakistan, has been prepared by the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) as part of its “Serve More, Serve Better” series.

In addition to secondary data, the study relies heavily on input provided during in-person interactions with senior management of 30 medical facilities located in ‘6’ cities of Pakistan

Purpose and Scope of the Study

This study delves into the promising yet untapped potential of Pakistan as a destination for medical tourism. With global medical tourism estimated at $19.28 billion in 2022 and projected to grow at an impressive CAGR of 21.3% through 2030, there is a pressing need for Pakistan to strategically position itself to capture a share of this growing market. This report not only assesses the opportunities available to Pakistan but also provides actionable insights into overcoming existing challenges and enhancing the sector’s competitiveness.

Why This Report Matters?

The findings underscore the enormous potential for medical tourism to contribute to Pakistan’s economic growth and global integration. By capitalizing on its strengths and addressing critical gaps, Pakistan can establish itself as a competitive medical tourism destination, much like its regional peers. This aligns seamlessly with the PBC’s mission of fostering sustainable growth through innovative and evidence-based advocacy.

Global Context

Medical tourism is fueled by rising healthcare costs in developed nations, the growing demand for specialized treatments, and the desire to combine healthcare with leisure. Countries like India, Türkiye, Thailand, and Malaysia lead the market, offering a roadmap for Pakistan to follow. Emerging trends include wellness tourism and cosmetic procedures.

Pakistan’s Competitive Advantages

  1. Low-Cost, High-Quality Care: Pakistan provides affordable healthcare services, such as cardiology, orthopedics, oncology, and cosmetic surgery, often at a fraction of the cost in developed countries.
  2. Strategic Location: Proximity to regions like Central Asia, the Middle East, and Africa makes Pakistan an accessible option for international patients.
  3. Skilled Workforce & International Accreditations: Highly trained medical professionals and some internationally accredited hospitals.
  4. Cultural and Religious Affinity: Shared values with Muslim-majority countries can attract patients from regions like the Middle East, Central Asia and Africa.

Challenges

  1. Safety Perceptions: Concerns regarding terrorism and crime.
  2. Inconsistent Healthcare Quality: Uneven standards and limited international accreditations.
  3. Logistical Issues: Lengthy visa processes, inadequate connectivity, and infrastructure gaps.
  4. Weak Branding and Marketing: Lack of a cohesive strategy to promote Pakistan’s medical tourism potential.
  5. Regulatory Gaps: Insufficient oversight on healthcare quality and patient rights.

Strategic Recommendations

  1. Policy and Governance:
    • Launch media campaigns to improve Pakistan’s global image.
    • Simplify visa processes, including medical e-visas.
    • Implement stronger healthcare regulations and ensure international accreditations.
  2. Infrastructure Development:
    • Invest in modernizing healthcare facilities and equipment.
    • Improve connectivity with direct flights to target markets.
    • Establish follow-up care centers in key regions.
  3. Marketing and Branding:
    • Develop a unified medical tourism brand for Pakistan.
    • Collaborate with embassies and private sector organizations to promote services.
    • Leverage the Pakistani diaspora as ambassadors for medical tourism.
  4. Public-Private Partnerships:
    • Foster collaboration between government and private healthcare providers.
    • Encourage investments in specialized healthcare services like cosmetic surgery, transplants, and fertility treatments.

Target Markets

  • Afghanistan and Iran: Proximity and cultural ties.
  • Africa and Central Asia: Affordable care and religious affinity.
  • Pakistani Diaspora: Patients seeking cost-effective treatment combined with family visits.

Conclusion

Pakistan possesses significant potential to emerge as a competitive destination for medical tourism. By addressing challenges and capitalizing on its strengths, the country can attract international patients, boost economic growth, and establish itself as a regional healthcare leader.

This report provides actionable insights for policymakers and industry stakeholders to drive strategic reforms and investments that will position Pakistan as a global player in medical tourism.

Call to Action

We invite policymakers, industry stakeholders, and healthcare professionals to engage with the insights and recommendations presented in this report.

Your feedback and collaboration will be instrumental in shaping a roadmap for transforming Pakistan into a thriving hub for medical tourism.

 

The PBC is a private sector not-for-profit advocacy platform set-up in 2005 by 14 (now 100+) of Pakistan’s largest businesses. PBC’s research-based advocacy supports measures which improve Pakistani industry’s regional and global competitiveness. More information about the PBC, its members, objectives and activities can be found on its website: www.pbc.org.pk

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