全球每年超2000万人出国看病

Core Viewpoint - The international medical tourism market is rapidly growing, with China emerging as a new destination due to its rich medical resources and clinical experience, despite facing competition from other Asian countries [3][5][6]. Global Medical Tourism Landscape - The global medical tourism market is expected to grow from $102.6 billion in 2019 to $272.7 billion by 2027, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15% to 25% [4]. - The market is characterized by two main groups: middle-income individuals seeking cost-effective care and high-net-worth individuals seeking top-tier medical services [3][4]. China's Position in Medical Tourism - China has traditionally been a source country for medical tourists but is now seeing a rise in inbound medical tourism due to advancements in specialized medical fields and increased openness [5][6]. - The competition primarily comes from other Asian countries, which have established cross-border medical frameworks and attract patients through cost advantages and comprehensive service offerings [6][7]. Supply-Side Capabilities - Chinese hospitals, particularly public ones, require policy support and significant investment to develop international medical services [7]. - The establishment of the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone in Hainan has been a significant step in promoting medical tourism in China [8]. Growth in Patient Numbers - In 2024, Hainan is expected to receive 41.37 million medical tourists, a 36.8% increase year-on-year [8]. - Major cities like Beijing and Shanghai are also seeing growth in international medical services, with Shanghai reporting 30.55 million international medical service visits in the first half of 2024 [8]. Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility - China offers significant cost advantages for high-end medical treatments compared to the US and UK, with treatments costing significantly less [9][10]. - The availability of experienced medical professionals and advanced treatment options enhances China's attractiveness as a medical tourism destination [10]. Target Market Segmentation - China should focus on two main groups for medical tourism: high-net-worth individuals from developing countries with lower medical standards and overseas Chinese who are price-sensitive [11][12]. Challenges to Overcome - Key challenges include the need for improved medical visa processes, accessibility of innovative drugs and medical devices, and enhancing the soft skills of healthcare providers [14][15][16]. - There is a lack of international brand recognition for Chinese hospitals, which hampers their ability to attract foreign patients compared to countries like Malaysia and Thailand [17][18].