South America Inbound Medical Tourism Market Outlook, 2028

The top South American countries for international medical travel are Brazil, Costa Rica, Colombia, Panama, and Argentina. In these locations, the most popular medical procedures are those for treating cancer, cardiovascular disorders, bariatric surgery, orthopedic conditions, cosmetic surgery, ophthalmology treatments, and dental care. The expansion of JCI and ISQA-recognized healthcare facilities that offer cutting-edge technology and the highest standards of hygiene ensure and promote high-quality patient care. Foreign patients are increasingly being sent to these nations by medical tourism facilitator companies for treatment as well as a sunny, enjoyable vacation. The WHO gives Costa Rica's healthcare system a tiny edge over the US. Every year, more than 40,000 Americans travel here for medical treatment, saving 45–65% of their medical costs. Following retirement, thousands of US retirees have chosen this country as their second home, mostly because of its sunny, pleasant temperature and great living conditions. Without sacrificing quality, medical operations in South America frequently cost a fraction of what they would in affluent nations. When looking for affordable treatment choices, medical tourists find this affordability to be a big draw. The medical tourism industry in South America provides a wide variety of specialty treatments, making it an alluring location for medical tourists. The region has expertise in a variety of fields, from cutting-edge cosmetic surgery in Colombia and Brazil to cutting-edge dental operations in Costa Rica. Additionally, Argentina has gained renown for its cutting-edge stem cell and reproductive therapies, while Ecuador and Peru provide outstanding wellness resorts amidst stunning scenery. The cost-effectiveness of medical tourism in South America is one of its main growth drivers. Without sacrificing quality, medical operations in the region can be much less expensive than in North America or Europe. Due to its accessibility and the fact that travellers from North America typically travel shorter distances, South America is a desirable destination for patients on a budget.

According to the research report, “South America Inbound Medical Tourism Market Outlook, 2028” published by Bonafide Research, the market is projected to add to USD 15 Billion from 2023 to 2028. The introduction of telemedicine and virtual consultations was driven by the COVID-19 epidemic. These technologies have been used by medical facilities in South America, enabling patients to communicate remotely with medical specialists and request pre- and postoperative advice. Eco-wellness retreats that incorporate medical treatments with nature-based therapies and spiritual activities are becoming more popular in nations like Costa Rica and Ecuador as the emphasis on holistic well-being grows. Medical establishments all around South America are implementing online patient portals to improve the patient experience. These platforms offer patients a central location to obtain their medical information, treatment schedules, and post-op instructions. Patients are able to stay in touch with their healthcare professionals through real-time updates and secure communication channels, ensuring continuity of care even when they return to their home nations. This degree of information exchange encourages openness and patient involvement, which helps make the experience of medical tourism more all-encompassing. Modern diagnostic and imaging tools, including 3D printing, MRI, CT scans, and AI-driven analytics, are being purchased by South American healthcare facilities. These developments support accurate surgical operations, treatment planning, and diagnosis. Accurate evaluations and customized solutions help medical tourists feel more confident about obtaining treatment in the area. Advanced imaging technologies also make it possible to confer with worldwide experts remotely, encouraging group decision-making in the medical field.

Based on the countries, Brazil is dominating the market of South America Inbound Medical Tourism Market in 2022 with significant market share.

According to the WHO, Brazil has the best healthcare system in South America. The Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein in Sao Paolo, which is the first JCI-accredited hospital outside of the US, is also located in this nation. The nation's reputation as the world's capital of plastic surgery is largely due to its emphasis on appearance. World-renowned plastic surgeons can be found in Brazil, where procedures can be had for up to 60% less than they would cost in Western nations. The nation is one of the most popular South American destinations for medical tourism, boasting more than 40 JCI-recognized institutions. Brazil's medical industry is known for its dependability throughout South America, and the World Health Organization rates it as the most effective healthcare system on the continent. Other South American nations often turn to Brazil for medical referrals, and frequently residents of the region's less developed nations choose to travel to Brazil for medical treatment. The nation's primary medical speciality is typically controlled and monopolized by a small number of eminent large names, much like other recently developed medical tourism destinations. In this situation, Brazil is home to some of the most well-known figures in the global cosmetic surgery industry. And by drawing in more medical tourists, these names contribute a great deal to expand medical tourism in Brazil.

Based on the treatment type, cosmetic treatment is leading the market of South America Inbound Medical Tourism Market.



South America provides a special fusion of inexpensive and top-notch medical treatment. In comparison to North America or Europe, South American nations can provide far more cost-effective cosmetic procedures like plastic surgery, facelifts, and body contouring. Brazil and Colombia in particular have been known throughout the world for producing highly qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeons. These medical specialists frequently complete their education at prestigious universities and are knowledgeable about the most recent developments in cosmetic procedures and fashion. Patients who are looking for top-notch aesthetic treatments are drawn to this expertise. Beauty and aesthetics have high cultural importance in some South American cultures. Brazil, for instance, has a strong tradition of valuing beauty and body image, making it a natural destination for people looking for cosmetic improvements. The popularity of cosmetic tourism in the area is attributed to the cultural acceptability and appreciation of aesthetic procedures. In order to meet the different needs and patient preferences, South America provides a wide range of cosmetic procedures. Medical tourists have a wide range of treatment options to pick from, making it easier for them to discover the one that will produce the results they are looking for. These treatments range from less invasive procedures like Botox and fillers to more involved surgeries like liposuction and breast augmentation.

Based on the service providers, public service providers are predicted to highest CAGR during the forecast period in South America Inbound Medical Tourism Market.

Governments in South America have taken strong steps to encourage the industry after realizing the potential economic benefits of medical travel. Public service providers, who are frequently involved in government efforts, might benefit from beneficial policies, financing, and assistance that aid in their development and growth. Infrastructure development, quality control procedures, and marketing campaigns are a few examples of these endeavors. Offering patients from both domestic and foreign countries cost-effective healthcare services is frequently prioritized by public service providers. Medical tourists looking for high-quality care at lower costs than private institutions may find public healthcare facilities to be a strong lure. This is in line with the fact that many medical tourists are budget-conscious, which adds to the allure of public service providers. Public service providers frequently place a high priority on patient safety and ethical considerations. Medical tourists who are looking for openness, patient-centered care, and moral treatment procedures may find this strategy appealing. Public healthcare facilities may also place a high value on social responsibility and all-encompassing care, which may appeal to patients looking for a thorough medical experience. South American public healthcare systems provide a wide range of medical services, including specialty care and operations. This kind of trip may draw a wide range of medical tourists with various healthcare requirements.

Market Dynamics

• Market Drivers: International patients seeking top-notch medical care frequently go to the area because of its reputation for having world-class healthcare facilities and specialized medical knowledge. Institutions in South America frequently excel in a variety of medical specializations, attracting patients who emphasize specialized care and cutting-edge operations. These specialties include cosmetic surgery, dentistry, fertility treatments, and wellness therapies. Medical tourism to South America is heavily influenced by cost differences. For anyone looking for affordable medical solutions without sacrificing quality, the relative reduced healthcare expenses, when compared to North America or Europe, present an alluring value proposition. The region is more appealing as a desired location for medical tourism thanks to this cost advantage as well as the attractiveness of encountering varied cultures and beautiful settings.
• Market Restraints: Cross-border healthcare services can be provided in an efficient manner, but they can be hampered by regulatory complexity and differences in healthcare standards across the region's many nations. Potential medical tourists may express worries about the caliber and safety of the treatments they would receive if licensure and certification criteria were inconsistent. Patients who are contemplating South America as a destination for medical tourism can be discouraged by the region's high expenses for travel, lodging, and medical services. People may be deterred from getting medical care in the area by the price burden, doubts over treatment outcomes, and potential hidden costs.
• Market Trends: A wide variety of medical procedures, including cosmetic surgery, dental work, elective surgeries, and reproductive treatments, are becoming increasingly popular in South America. Medical establishments in the area are increasingly catering to patients from outside the country who are looking for high-quality yet affordable options for these treatments. Some South American nations, like Brazil and Colombia, have made large investments in their healthcare infrastructure, building cutting-edge hospitals and clinics with the latest medical technology. This has increased their appeal to medical tourists looking for cutting-edge procedures.

Market Players Insights
Albert Einstein Israelite Hospital, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Hospital Sírio-Libanês, Hospital das Clínicas da FMUSP, Hospital Alemán, FLENI

Considered in this report
• Geography: South America
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report
• South America Inbound Medical Tourism with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Country-wise Inbound Medical Tourism market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Countries covered in the report
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia

By Treatment Type
• Cancer Treatment / Oncology
• Cosmetic Treatment
• Orthopedics Treatment / Spine Treatment
• Cardiovascular Treatment
• Fertility Treatment / IVF Treatments
• Neurological Treatment
• Organ Transplant
• Bariatric Treatment
• Dental Treatment
• Alternative Treatment (Acupuncture, Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, Chinese or Oriental medicine, Chiropractic and osteopathic medicine, Massage, Body movement therapies, Tai chi, Yoga, Dietary supplements, Herbal medicine, Nutrition/diet, Electromagnetic therapy, Reiki, Qigong, Meditation, Biofeedback, Hypnosis, Art, dance, and music, Visualization and guided imagery, etc.)
• Ophthalmology Treatment
• Other Treatments (Dermatological treatments, ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) treatments, Allergy and Immunology treatments, Sleep disorder treatments, Mental health and psychological treatments, Urology, diabetology, Proctology, Vascular Surgery, etc.)

By Service Providers
• Private
• Public

The approach of the report
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations and organisations related to the Inbound Medical Tourism industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.