Thailand to host medical tourism event

3-Mar-2007

Thailand is preparing to host a conference on the medical tourism, spa and wellness industries as it moves to reinforce itself as a key player in the sector.

Due to be held in September, the conference and exhibition will provide a platform for Thailand to prove its advantages as a major medical tourism destination, with the latest innovations and technology set to be on show.

Exhibitors and visitors from Singapore, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong and Indonesia will be in attendance, along with representatives from further afield, such as the USA and Canada.

Natprapa Yokputtaraksa, managing director of conference organiser Production Management and Services, commented: "Thailand has distinct advantages in several key industries, among which are medical tourism, spa and wellness industries."

The nation is popular among patients seeking treatment abroad, with recent figures from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (Tat) indicating that over five million tourists visit the country each year for treatment.

Many are seeking dental treatment, which is currently hard to obtain in the UK, while cosmetic surgery and eye surgery are also popular options.

Dr Thada Piamphongsan, president of the Thai Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Surgery, predicted that the beauty business would continue to grow, with both men and women becoming more concerned about their appearance, and pointed out that Thailand offers some of the best quality medical and beauty services at highly affordable prices.