Cancun Aims to Become a Leading Medical Tourism Destination

Saturday, July 20, 2024

Coparmex Quintana Roo and CPTQ Collaborate to Boost Medical Tourism

The Employers’ Confederation of the Mexican Republic (Coparmex) in Quintana Roo and the Tourism Promotion Council of Quintana Roo (CPTQ) recently convened to discuss collaboration mechanisms aimed at promoting medical tourism. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to diversify the region’s economy.

Angélica Frías González, president of Coparmex in the state, emphasized the goal of developing a robust product that can attract more international patients to specialized medical areas. The collaboration seeks to leverage Quintana Roo’s existing infrastructure and natural appeal to create a comprehensive medical tourism package.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that 70% of international patients who visit Cancun for medical treatments return for leisure tourism, with an average stay of up to 11 nights. This is significantly longer than the typical three-day stay of traditional tourists. Such extended stays benefit local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to recreational activities and shopping centers.

Moreover, while the average spending of a traditional tourist ranges between $1,300 and $1,500, medical tourists contribute substantially more to the local economy, with expenditures ranging from $11,500 to $13,000 during their stay. This higher expenditure includes costs for medical procedures, follow-up care, accommodation, and leisure activities, providing a significant boost to the region’s economic health.

The meeting also addressed the need for quality assurance in medical services. By ensuring high standards, Quintana Roo can build a reputation as a reliable destination for medical tourism. This involves not only top-notch medical facilities but also seamless coordination between healthcare providers and tourism services.

The Coparmex leader underscored the importance of this collaborative effort in positioning Quintana Roo as a premier medical tourism destination, offering high-quality services to patients worldwide. She stressed that by working together, Coparmex and Council of Quintana Roo can create a sustainable model that benefits both the local economy and the international patients who seek medical care in the region.

This initiative is expected to attract investment in medical infrastructure, training for healthcare professionals, and marketing campaigns targeting potential medical tourists. The collaboration aims to build long-term relationships with international patients, encouraging repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

Overall, the partnership between Coparmex and Council of Quintana Roo represents a strategic move to harness the potential of medical tourism, driving economic growth and enhancing Quintana Roo’s standing as a diverse and vibrant destination for both healthcare and leisure.