Motivators and Perceptions of Island Residents towards Medical Tourism in Mainland

Abstract

A quality healthcare service at a reasonable price is one of the fundamental rights of a human. On the other hand, ideal healthcare services are not always available in our countries, and traveling abroad for health purposes becomes a necessity. The purpose of this study is to examine North Cyprus residents' perceptions and motivators toward medical tourism in choosing a medical tourism destination instead of consuming domestic medical services. A survey conducted with 430 residents in North Cyprus. Frequency analysis tables were created to analyze the demographic profiles, while the mean, median, Anova, and t-test have been conducted to analyze the respondents' perceptions based on their demographic profiles. North Cyprus residents have an overall positive perception of medical tourism in Turkey. Push factors such as seeking for health and fitness, resting and relaxation motivate the residents to travel. Internal motives pushing residents to travel abroad for medical treatment included reasons such as a lack of accredited hospitals, low quality of care, and insecurity for employers in the North. External factors included a safe physical environment, high quality of facilities, food, and friendly people. The study revealed the critical motivational factors in the decision process of the respondents. The selective factors had a positive relationship with medical treatments, wellbeing, and health inconveniences. Residents were more comfortable and content with medical facilities and treatment in Turkey than North Cyprus. The study provides insights for the industry administrators and public officials in designing their strategies for attracting more patients.