Ancient Roman Medical Tourism
In ancient Rome, hot water baths (called thermae) were not only used for their obvious medicinal benefits, but they also served as important social networking venues for some of the Empire’s most privileged elite. The Romans were definitely not believers in Spartan healing, and those who could afford to do so spend lavish amounts of money at the numerous baths and hot springs that surfaced. Much like the swank health care centers of 21st century medical tourism hotspots, these elaborate Roman complexes were posh establishments. Some treatment centers actually included theaters, lounges, art galleries, conference halls, brothels, and even the occasional sports
stadium.
During the early days of the Roman Empire, these thermae could hardly have been considered medical tourism spots since most visitors were within one day’s journey.
Reasons for the Development of Health Tourism
A combination of several factors has led to the recent increase in popularity of medical tourism. People from industrialized nations seek health tourism because of high costs of treatment in their home country. Health tourism destinations provide high quality treatment at low cost, that is the health tourist gets treatment at a fraction of cost that he has to spend for the same procedure in his home country.
Reasons for the Development of Health Tourism
A combination of several factors has led to the recent increase in popularity of medical tourism. People from industrialized nations seek health tourism because of high costs of treatment in their home country.
In nutshell following are the reasons that prompt people to choose health tourism:
High cost of treatment in home country and high quality low cost treatment offered by health tourism destination.
Long waiting lists in home country and opportunity to get medical treatment within a week at health tourism destination.
To make use of highly sophisticated equipment’s and technology provided by the health tourism destination.
To reduce stress and rejuvenate body, mind and soul by taking alternative forms of medicines which have no side effects.
Taking the advantage of tourism while treatment as the patients can forget about their illness and can relax in a health tourism destination.
Ease and affordability of international travel and favourable exchange rates.
Better hospitality services provided by the health tourism destination.
Patients feel like they are at home even if they are treated for a serious disease.
Availability of the services of highly skilled doctors and high standards of care.
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