Greek Diaspora TV features rising medical tourism

An episode of “Greece in our Hearts” featured the rising interest in medical tourism in Greece.

An episode of “Greece in our Hearts” featured the rising interest in medical tourism in Greece. Mamalakis Petrosl of the International Medical Tourism Centre was a key studio guest. “Greece in our Hearts” is a weekly online television programme presented by Babis Petrakis. It targets the Greek diaspora as the programme is in Greek.

George Patoulis of the International Health Tourism Centre (IHTC) argues that Greece needs an integrated national strategy for health and medical tourism to support the national economy and local communities. He suggests five proposals for the development of medical tourism in Greece:

  • Greece’s national strategy should focus on establishing new partnerships with international medical organizations and institutions; certifying medical units and building a strong brand for Greece.
  • Greece should adopt modern practices to secure the quality of the services offered and set a framework for inspection and licensing.
  • Product specialisation and cost reduction is needed for some therapies and surgeries.
  • The use of international networks is essential to attract patients.
  • A combination of services for visitors-patients is required, which would include multilingual communication; transport and accommodation; and online examinations.

The tourism ministry is working towards certifying Greece’s thermal springs, to develop spa tourism and thermal therapy. A political decision is awaited as to whether or not it will set specifications for the operation of thalassotherapy centres and thermal springs, and pave the way for new investments.