Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.20867/thm.32.3.10
Medical tourism determinants and satisfaction: A case of Turkiye
Safak Cinar
; Health Sciences University, Gulhane Health Services Vocational School, Türkiye
Derya Sivuk
; Ankara Hacı Bayram Veli University, Faculty of Economics and Administrative Sciences, Türkiye
Jiahui Wang
; University of Massachusetts Amherst, Isenberg School of Management, Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, USA
Muzaffer Uysal
; University of Massachusetts Amherst, Isenberg School of Management, Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, USA
Abstract
Purpose – This study aims to provide fresh insights into the primary factors influencing
foreign patients’ satisfaction in medical tourism. Specifically, it seeks to understand how the
quality of medical services in Türkiye, environmental factors, and demographic variables
affect international patient satisfaction.
Methodology/Design/Approach – Data were collected from 412 international patients in
Türkiye. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) was used to identify dimensions of satisfaction.
Subsequently, correlation and multiple regression analyses examined the relationships
between these satisfaction dimensions and variables such as patient age, treatment budget,
and revisit intention.
Findings – Results reveal significant variation in satisfaction levels across hypothesized
factors (e.g., service quality, environmental aspects). Notably, patients from Africa, Europe,
Asia, and the Middle East exhibited meaningful differences in satisfaction linked to
demographics, budget, and intent to return.
Originality of the research – This study is among the first to systematically model the key
determinants of patient satisfaction in international medical tourism within the Türkiye
context. Quantitatively analyzing regional and demographic distinctions, it contributes novel
theoretical and practical insights into literature.
Keywords
medical tourism, patient satisfaction, service quality, demographic factors, Türkiye
Hrčak ID:
346477
URI
Publication date:
22.4.2026.
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