Medical Refugees and the Future of Health Tourism

Health tourism presents American policymakers with a perplexing situation, which requires an examination of the implications of such tourism on trade and economics, especially when considering the role of the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS). Currently, the issue of health tourism, or the means by which consumers seek health services abroad, and its policy implications has yet to gain the attention of policymakers in the United States and the international community. By reviewing existing literature and relevant international treaties, it becomes apparent that the expanding popularity of health tourism necessitates exploring the potential implications of health tourism. Further, in assessing its impact, policymakers must examine questions related to quality, performance, and accountability of those facilities hosting health tourists.