ECONOMIC IMPACT OF HEALTH TOURISM AND TURKEY'S POSITION IN THE GLOBAL HEALTH TOURISM

The tourism sector is diversifying in a globalizing world with the development of new technologies that facilitate communication and transportation, gaining prominence with many alternative tourism types beyond the conventionally known sea-sand-sun tourism. Health tourism is a rapidly growing sector that encompasses individuals traveling to improve, protect, or enhance their health status and receive medical and alternative health services. In this context, various areas such as thermal tourism, spa and wellness, and medical tourism have emerged. This type of tourism, in addition to its existence throughout history, has come to the forefront especially in the last decade with its developing structure and increasing economic impact. Health tourism is becoming more diverse and growing day by day, thanks
to the opportunities offered by modern medicine, advanced transportation, and communication systems. Health tourism trips, which are mostly made to underdeveloped and developing countries, not only improve the health and quality of life of individuals but also have numerous direct and indirect effects, particularly economic, on the relevant destinations. This study will examine the conceptual structure and development of health tourism, evaluate its economic effects, and analyze Turkey’s position in the global health tourism market.