Abstract:
With its competent physicians, state-of-the-art technology, and culture of Filipino caring and hospitality, the Philippines is being considered nowadays as one of the most promising medical tourism destinations in the world. The Philippine government has recognized the potential of the industry and as such has partnered with different hospitals – both private and government-controlled – and has launched a Medical Tourism Program. However, the impact of medical tourism in some of the country’s government-owned and controlled corporate hospitals is yet to be weighed as medical tourism is said to bring about both positive and negative outcomes for the country’s health system.
This research work presents the history and background of medical tourism and its application in the Philippine context. The paper also looks into the positive outcomes of the hospitals’ participation in the industry, such as improvements made by the hospitals – infrastructure- and technology-wise. The paper also explores the negative impacts associated with medical tourism and further elaborates on the perceptions of the local patients about possible changes in the level of medical attention and service given to the Filipinos. Finally, the paper proposes recommendations to help ensure that medical tourism will not be developed at the cost of the public health system and suggests measures to be taken by the government to regulate it.
