Turkey maintains its billion-dollar revenue in health tourism
Turkey continues to generate over a billion dollars in revenue as it has become a major health hub for international patients in recent years.
Ranking among the top 10 countries in global health tourism with its strategic location, modern hospital infrastructure, and expert staff, Turkey has hosted millions of foreign patients in recent years.
International Patient and Revenue Data
According to data from International Health Services (USHAŞ), 1 million 506 thousand 442 foreign patients received health services in Turkey in 2024, while the sector generated revenues exceeding 3 billion dollars.
In 2025, 1 million 398 thousand 580 people chose Turkey within the scope of health tourism, and sector revenues once again exceeded 3 billion dollars, raising its share of total tourism revenues to 6.9 percent.
First Quarter Report for 2026
In the first quarter of 2026, the number of people coming to Turkey to receive health services was recorded as 302 thousand 487.
The total revenue generated as a result of health tourism activities carried out during this period reached the level of 761.5 million dollars.
Prominent Treatment Areas
Regarded among the world leaders in hair transplantation and aesthetic surgery, Turkey now also sees intensive demand in areas such as cancer treatment, organ transplantation, eye and dental treatments, and obesity surgery.
Experts point out that the country has increased its international competitiveness, particularly in oncology treatments requiring advanced technology and organ transplantation.
Source Markets and Demand
While the most intense demand for health tourism comes from Europe, the Middle East, the Balkans, and the Turkic Republics, Germany, the United Kingdom, Russia, and Azerbaijan stand out among the primary source markets.
It is stated that there has also been a significant increase in the number of patients coming from Bulgaria recently.
Warning on Audits and Unregistered Activities in the Sector
Sector representatives warn that intermediary firms operating off the books and unauthorized health service providers could damage the country's international image.
Experts emphasize that quality standards must be maintained, inspection mechanisms strengthened, and patient satisfaction prioritized for sustainable growth.
Geriatric Tourism and HealthTürkiye
With the aging world population, geriatric tourism stands out as one of the new growth areas, and investments in elderly care campuses and rehabilitation centers are targeted to increase in the Mediterranean and Aegean regions, particularly in Antalya.
The mandatory registration in the HealthTürkiye platform implemented by the Ministry of Health is considered an important step in increasing transparency in the sector and ensuring that international patients receive safe services.