Organized by the Turkish-American Chamber of Commerce & Industry-Midwest, in collaboration with the Turkish Healthcare Tourism Development Council, the Turkish American Tourism Council and other Turkish-American organizations in Chicago, Conference on Medical Tourism in Turkey was held in Chicago.

The conference intended exchange of knowledge between Turkey and the US as well as sharing current figures and facts on healthcare. The conference also aimed at introducing Turkey as an alternative medical tourism destination.

Officials stated that Turkish Arlines offers cheaper flights for patients and their companions, thus promoting medical tourism and provided sound figures which mark Turkey’s growing share in the market. In 2008, around 300,000 patients preferred Turkey to receive health service, out of not only cheap healthcare opportunities but also of high quality services, said participants.

Experts estimate that 6 million patients will go abroad in 2010 to have cheaper treatment. Patients are lured by low costs particularly in India and Mexico, say officials.