Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the growing trend of medical tourism from Russia to China, particularly in cities like Heihe, where Russian patients seek dental and traditional Chinese medicine services due to lower costs and better service quality compared to Russia [3][4][5]. Medical Tourism Growth - Medical tourism in border cities like Heihe and Suifenhe is attracting a significant number of Russian patients, especially for dental care and traditional Chinese medicine [3][4]. - The cost of dental procedures in China is approximately one-third of that in Russia, making it a financially attractive option for Russian patients [4][10]. - In 2024, the number of Russian visitors to China reached 2.78 million, with a significant increase in flight connections facilitating this trend [5][10]. Economic Context - The depreciation of the Russian ruble and high inflation rates have led to a decline in disposable income for many Russians, prompting them to seek more affordable medical options abroad [4][44]. - Despite a reported GDP growth of 4.1% in Russia for 2024, the economy is primarily driven by defense spending, with consumer spending under pressure [4]. Local Impact - The influx of Russian patients has created a burgeoning medical service industry in Heihe, with local businesses adapting to cater to this new clientele [10][11]. - The local economy in Heihe has seen a growth of 26.48% in the tertiary sector in 2024, largely driven by services catering to Russian tourists [10]. Cultural Exchange - The article notes a cultural exchange where Russian patients are increasingly engaging with Chinese medical practices, such as acupuncture and traditional therapies, which they find effective [18][36]. - Russian patients often express satisfaction with the services received in China, leading to repeat visits and recommendations among their peers [46]. Challenges and Adaptations - The article discusses the challenges faced by local businesses in adapting to the changing economic landscape, including the need to adjust pricing strategies to accommodate the reduced spending power of Russian clients [44][46]. - Communication barriers remain a challenge, with many Russian patients relying on translation services to navigate medical consultations and treatments [34][35].

Group 1 - The Thai Ministry of Public Health has announced a strategic plan to promote the health industry, which includes measures such as popularizing the use of Thai herbal medicine, accelerating medical tourism development, and strengthening local manufacturing of medical devices [1] - The Thai government aims to establish a Health Economy and Policy Office to implement this strategic plan, with an expected economic value of 690 billion THB by 2025, contributing 3.39% to the country's GDP [1] - The Thai government has approved a strategy to develop Thailand into an international medical center from 2025 to 2034, focusing on health promotion services, medical treatment, academic research, and pharmaceutical products [1] Group 2 - Thailand has a long history of developing medical tourism, officially launching its strategy in 2004, with the aim of becoming a global health tourism hub [2] - In 2022, Thailand had nearly 39,000 medical institutions, with 64% being private, and ranked fourth globally in medical tourism revenue in 2023 [2] - The Thai government has extended the medical tourism visa to 90 days to facilitate international patients seeking medical care [2] Group 3 - The international appeal of Thailand's health industry is increasing, with a strategic partnership formed between Guangdong Panhua Blue Cross Health Management Co., Ltd. and Thailand's BWC Anti-Aging Center to promote market activities in anti-aging and healthcare [3] - Medical tourism in Thailand is attracting visitors from the Middle East, with an average spending of approximately 89,000 THB per visit, indicating the attractiveness of high-end medical tourism projects [3]