Health tourism and its economic impact: Period 2002-2023 case of Turkey

Tourism is a sector with increasing economic value for developing countries. Many alternative types are used to increase the economic efficiency of tourism. The purpose of this study is to touch upon the situation and types of health tourism in Turkey, to evaluate the developments and future assumptions since 2002. The sub-branches of health tourism were mentioned in detail, state support for the sector in Turkey, economic contribution and relationship was explained, and the effect of the pandemic that was effective in 2020 on health tourism was examined. Analyzes were made taking into account the literature review and data on health tourism. As a result of the research, it is stated that health tourism is a sector with high added value; It has been emphasized that it has a positive contribution to employment, national income growth and the balance of foreign payments. It has been stated that following the Covid-19 epidemic, the potential of international patients will increase and new products and services will come to the fore with digitalization. It has been concluded that Turkey has legislation, support and organizations on health tourism, but cannot generate the desired level of income from health tourism, and it is thought that the effectiveness will increase with focus on the issues that are seen as a country advantage. Keywords: Health Tourism, Pandemic, Economic Contribution, Foreign Payments, Support